Susanne van Beest, Forensic Scientist at Politie Midden-Nederland
In 2006 I graduated with a master’s degree in Forensic Science. Before that I earned a bachelor and master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences. During that period I learned a lot about DNA and its application in science. The combination of science and the social aspect of forensic science really appealed to me, and that’s why I wanted to do this master. It turned out to be a good choice: the topics are diverse (from ballistics to writing tests to, of course, DNA) and it has a distinct multidisciplinary character.
I did my research project at the NFI. It was a retrospective case file study in which the evidence was reviewed in terms of the chance to obtain a (useful) DNA profile. Then a fellow student pointed out a job opening and now I work as a forensic scientist. Besides my work on the lab (preliminary investigation for biological traces), I also try to stay in touch with, amongst others, the University of Amsterdam. Developments in the research area and the translation towards crime scene investigation are useful for the Forensic Investigation Unit where I work. I would like to work more with research done in a scientific environment and improve field work within the police department. Eventually the police should have their own research & development department.
The master Forensic Science prepared me for the diversity within the work field and gave me a network which I still use on a regular basis. Therefore I advise current student to network in order to prepare for a career. If a job opening comes along, there are a lot of respondents; knowing someone already working there might help! Also focus on what you like and try to do an internship within that area or within that organisation.