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Forensic Science Chemistry Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Indiana University

Lecturer

Bloomington, IN · On-site

S. in Forensic Science, Chemistry, Biology or a related field from an accredited university by the date of appointment. The field of expertise and experience must include forensic science. Experience ...

Bsu

Assistant Professor of Forensic Science

Muncie, IN

$65K - $75K/yr

D. in forensic science, biology, chemistry, or forensic psychology or a closely related eld is required at the time of appointment. Employee will consider sponsorship for those qualified at the ...

Bsu

Assistant Professor of Forensic Science

Muncie, IN

$65K - $75K/yr

D. in forensic science, biology, chemistry, or forensic psychology or a closely related eld is required at the time of appointment. Employer will consider sponsorship. What you'll do and what you ...

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Forensic Science Chemistry information

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$35.5K

$52.4K

$78.5K

How much do forensic science chemistry jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic science chemistry in the United States is $52,397.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,500.00 and $55,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges forensic science chemists face when analyzing complex evidence samples?

Forensic science chemists often encounter the challenge of analyzing evidence that contains mixed or degraded samples, such as substances contaminated with environmental materials or degraded by time and exposure. These situations require advanced analytical techniques and meticulous attention to detail to ensure accurate identification and quantification of substances. Additionally, chemists must maintain rigorous documentation and adhere strictly to chain-of-custody protocols, as their findings may be scrutinized in a legal context. Collaborating closely with law enforcement and legal professionals is also essential to interpret results and provide clear testimony when needed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Forensic Science Chemist, and why are they important?

To excel as a Forensic Science Chemist, you need a solid background in analytical chemistry, laboratory techniques, and a degree in chemistry or forensic science. Familiarity with instrumentation such as GC-MS, HPLC, and proficiency in evidence handling protocols are typically required, with some employers preferring ASCLD/LAB or similar certifications. Attention to detail, objectivity, and strong written and verbal communication skills help forensic chemists accurately analyze evidence and present findings. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the integrity of forensic analyses and supporting the justice system with reliable, scientifically sound results.

What is the difference between Forensic Science Chemistry vs Forensic Science Biology?

AspectForensic Science ChemistryForensic Science Biology
Required CredentialsDegree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field; certifications like ASB or FEPDegree in Biology, Microbiology, or related field; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories analyzing chemical substances, drugs, toxinsLaboratories examining biological samples, DNA, bodily fluids
Employer & Industry UsageCrime labs, law enforcement agencies, forensic labsSame as above, often overlapping in forensic settings

Forensic Science Chemistry focuses on chemical analysis of substances, while Forensic Science Biology emphasizes biological evidence like DNA. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, often within the same forensic laboratories, but they specialize in different types of evidence analysis.

What is forensic science chemistry?

Forensic science chemistry is a branch of forensic science that applies chemistry principles and techniques to analyze physical evidence from crime scenes. Forensic chemists identify and characterize substances such as drugs, explosives, poisons, and trace evidence to help law enforcement solve crimes. They often use specialized laboratory instruments and methods, including chromatography, spectroscopy, and microscopy, to detect and interpret chemical evidence. Their findings can be crucial in criminal investigations and are often presented in court as expert testimony.
More about Forensic Science Chemistry jobs
What cities are hiring for Forensic Science Chemistry jobs? Cities with the most Forensic Science Chemistry job openings:
What states have the most Forensic Science Chemistry jobs? States with the most job openings for Forensic Science Chemistry jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Science Chemistry jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Science Chemistry jobs are:
Forensic Science Chemistry jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Science Chemistry job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Full Time, 88% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,397 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Lecturer

Indiana University Academic Positions

Indianapolis, IN

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Position Details
Title Lecturer Appointment Status Non-Tenure Track Department IU Indianapolis Department of Chemistry - School of Science Location Indianapolis Position Summary
Lecturer
The School of Science (SoS - https://science.indianapolis.iu.edu/) at Indiana University Indianapolis (IU Indianapolis) invites applications for a full-time, non-tenure-track faculty position at the rank of Lecturer beginning August 1, 2026 in the area of forensic science. This position is for in-person teaching at the IU Indianapolis campus. The academic home of the selected candidate will be in Biology or Chemistry and Chemical Biology with primary teaching and service responsibilities in the Forensic and Investigative Science (FIS) Program.
The FIS Program is a FEPAC accredited program. The FIS program offers B.S. and M.S. degrees with forensic biology and forensic chemistry concentrations and is starting a new B.S. degree in digital forensics. Currently, the B.S. program has over 260 students and continues to grow annually at the rate of over 100 new students per academic term. More information about the program can be found at https://science.indianapolis.iu.edu/forensic/ .
The successful candidate will be qualified to teach courses in Forensic and Investigative Sciences. These courses could include general forensic science survey courses, forensic science laboratory management, ethics, quality control, and forensic science and the law. A successful candidate will also be expected to teach upper level, specialized technical forensic science courses in Forensic Biology, Forensic Chemistry, or Forensic Microscopy depending on their expertise. Non-tenure track teaching faculty have service and scholarly work expectations in addition to their primary teaching responsibilities and are eligible for promotion to the ranks of Senior Lecturer and Teaching Professor.
Applicants should hold at minimum a M.S. in Forensic Science, Chemistry, Biology or a related field from an accredited university by the date of appointment. The field of expertise and experience must include forensic science. Experience as a forensic science practitioner in either private or public forensic laboratories is highly valued but not required. Experience teaching courses at the university level is preferred.
Applicants should submit a cover letter describing their educational background, experiences, and reasons for interest in this position, a curriculum vitae, a teaching philosophy statement (up to two pages), and the name and contact information for three references through the online application portal.
IU Indianapolis, the state's premier urban research institution, is a national leader in life sciences research, civic engagement, service learning, first-year experiences, and assessment of institutional effectiveness. IU Indianapolis more than 25,000 students pursue Indiana University degrees across seventeen distinct schools, ranging from Business and Liberal Arts to Science and Informatics. Indianapolis, the state capital of Indiana, is the 16th largest city in the nation and is home to outstanding cultural institutions and several professional sports teams situated in a diverse regional economy. The IU Indianapolis School of Science is comprised of 6 departments and 2 interdisciplinary programs and is the largest non-medical school on the IU Indianapolis campus.
Department contact for questions - Dr. John Goodpaster, e-mail address;
The review of applications will begin on April 17, 2026, and continue until the position is filled.

Basic Qualifications
M.S. in Forensic Science, Chemistry, Biology or a related field from an accredited university by the date of appointment. The field of expertise and experience must include forensic science.
Department Contact for Questions
Dr. John Goodpaster
e-mail: jvgoodpa@iu.edu
Additional Qualifications
Experience as a forensic science practitioner in either private or public forensic laboratories is highly valued but not required. Experience in teaching courses at the university level is preferred.
Salary and Rank Commensurate with experience and qualifications Special Instructions
Applicants should submit a cover letter describing their educational background, experiences, and reasons for interest in this position, a curriculum vitae, a teaching philosophy statement (two pages), and name and e-mail address of three references.
For Best Consideration Date 04/17/2026 Expected Start Date 08/01/2026 Posting Number IU-101530-2026

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