Whether you’re captivated by true crime documentaries or a devoted fan of the long-running series “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” you’ve likely glimpsed the gritty realities of crime scenes: the blood, the yellow tape … and the maggots feasting on the recently deceased.
If you’re passionate about insects and the intricacies of criminal investigations, why not combine these interests into a unique career? As a forensic entomologist, you’ll immerse yourself in fascinating scientific investigation, both in the field and behind the microscope. With insects as your muses, you’ll help uncover crucial details about homicides including time of death and potential crime locations.
What Do Forensic Entomologists Do?
Forensic entomologists use their unique entomological skillset to assist in legal investigations, often those featuring decomposing bodies. With the assistance of insects around the scene of the crime, they provide essential insights that help solve cases, particularly when traditional methods of estimating the time of death are not viable.
Some of their daily responsibilities include:
- Collecting evidence
During the active investigation of a crime scene, forensic entomologists gather insect samples and take them back to the lab for further review. - Analyzing insects
In the lab, they focus on specific criteria, including the type of insects they’ve collected and the developmental stages of each insect. This information helps estimate the post-mortem interval (PMI), or the time since death. They also assess environmental influences that may impact and alter an insect’s development, such as temperature and humidity, to refine their estimations. - Preparing reports
After completing their analyses, forensic entomologists document their findings in detailed reports for law enforcement and legal entities, which may be used in court. - Testifying in court
They also serve as expert witnesses, providing explanations of their findings and methodologies to judges and juries during legal proceedings.
Salary and Job Outlook
A career as a forensic entomologist is a lucrative one, with a national average salary of approximately $88,000 per year. In addition, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the job outlook for the related role of forensic science technicians is expected to grow by 14% through 2033: a rate that’s substantially higher than the national average.
Understanding Forensic Entomology: The Art Behind the Science
Being a forensic scientist is like blending the precision of science with the interpretative skill of art. Behind every insect feeding on a decomposing body is a critical clue that can reveal insights into a crime scene. In forensic entomology, experts use the life cycle and development stages of insects — usually blowflies and carrion beetles — to determine a PMI.
After death, bodies go through five stages of decomposition:
- Fresh
- Early decomposition
- Advanced decomposition
- Skeletonization
- Extreme decomposition
Each stage attracts a unique set of insects. Blowflies, for instance, are often the first to arrive, drawn to the body by bodily fluids and gases released during early decomposition.
As time passes, beetles and other insects follow, often feeding on both the decaying tissue and fly larvae already present. This predictable succession of insect colonization allows forensic scientists to pinpoint the decomposition stage and estimate the PMI, leading the investigative team one step closer to understanding the circumstances of the death.
How to Become a Forensic Entomologist
There are several steps to check off on the journey toward becoming a forensic entomologist:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree
Majors such as biology, entomology and forensic science cover essential areas you’ll use regularly while working, like microbiology, chemistry and biological and physical sciences. - Gain practical experience
Hands-on experience is invaluable for aspiring forensic entomologists. It becomes even more crucial if you plan to obtain certification from the American Board of Forensic Entomology (ABFE) later in your career. Working in a laboratory, volunteering or interning with a forensic organization allows you to build foundational skills such as insect identification, laboratory techniques and crime scene protocols. - Obtain a master’s degree
Though not strictly required, a master’s degree in entomology can enhance your expertise and open doors to more specialized roles. Graduate programs often include coursework in forensic entomology, decomposition and insect behavior, providing in-depth knowledge and practical skills. - Become certified
Certification can be an important step for those who wish to establish credibility in the field. The ABFE offers certification for those with a relevant degree and professional experience, and the certification requires passing an exam.
Start Your Career in Forensic Entomology With a Graduate Credential From UF
If you’re ready to deepen your expertise in entomology for a dynamic role as a forensic entomologist — or another career in entomology — the University of Florida’s online graduate programs in entomology offer specialized courses that go beyond basic biology. As an online student, you’ll study insect behavior, ecology and identification in detail, giving your resume an edge as you work toward your professional goals.
Our online master’s degree in entomology offers four distinct specializations, allowing you to hone in on a particular area of interest in entomology while also gaining a strong foundation in general entomology:
- Medical Entomology
- Landscape Pest Management
- Urban Pest Management
- Beekeeping
For students aiming to specialize in one area, we also offer 15-credit graduate certificates in the same focus areas. As the world’s top-ranked entomology and nematology program, UF provides both depth and flexibility in online learning, ensuring a thorough understanding of entomology while making it possible to complete your coursework on your schedule.
Ready to make a change in your career? Apply today!
Sources:
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Forensic-Entomologist-Salary
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/forensic-science-technicians.htm
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549867
