Forensic scientist | Average UK Salary & Outlook

Forensic scientists prepare traces of physical evidence for use in courts of law.

  • Keep records and prepare reports detailing findings, investigative methods, and laboratory techniques.  
  • Collect evidence from crime scenes, storing it in conditions that preserve its integrity.  
  • Testify in court about investigative or analytical methods or findings.  
  • Use photographic or video equipment to document evidence or crime
Read more about Forensic scientist

Forensic scientists typically work around 37 to 40 hours per week.

As a Forensic scientist you will typically work on call.

This occupation tends to be:

  • Investigative — Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.
  • Realistic — Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and
Read more about Forensic scientist
* from ONETonline
Average salary
34,165 GBP *
per year
20,000 GBP
45,000 GBP
Starting
5+ Experience
* data taken from the Office of National Statistics (ons.gov.uk)
Average salary for Forensic scientist

  • 35,058 GBP
  • 33,788 GBP
Average salary for full-time Forensic scientist

Showing:
  • 34,165 GBP
  • 33,788 GBP
  • 35,058 GBP
Salary over time for Forensic scientist

Salary for this role has increased over time
  • 35,205 GBP
  • 31,629 GBP
  • 30,818 GBP
  • 32,994 GBP
  • 36,385 GBP
  • 38,105 GBP
  • 34,165 GBP
  • 31,707 GBP
  • 35,142 GBP
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Future outlook for Forensic scientists

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Balanced outlook
64 000+ jobs available
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Balanced outlook
0% yearly wage growth (on average)

Forensic scientist - Your future job?


Which qualifications do I need?

Find out what you need to know in order to become a Forensic scientist and the highest average level of education for people in this role.

In terms of people already doing this job:

  • % of people in this role have a certificate of higher education or equivalent but no degree
  • % of people in this role have a Bachelor's degree
  • % of people in this role have a Diploma of Higher Education or equivalent

You can apply directly to forensic services providers if you've got a lot of lab experience, and qualifications in science, especially chemistry.

You'll need:

  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
  • the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
  • the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
  • knowledge of public safety and security
  • excellent written communication skills
  • the ability to work on your own
  • legal knowledge including court procedures and government regulations
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Get the right qualification to begin your journey to becoming a Forensic scientist

Forensic Science

Things to highlight for your Forensic scientist interview

Attention to Detail Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks. Integrity Job requires being honest and ethical. Self Control Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations. Analytical Thinking Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems. Stress Tolerance Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high stress situations.

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