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Forensic Histopathology is a subspecialty of pathology used to investigate crime scenes and the corpses of people who have died suddenly or of suspicious or unknown causes. It incorporates anatomical pathology, histology, DNA technology, firearms examination, trace evidence, serology, and toxicology. It involves autopsies, also known as post-mortem examinations, and forensic analysis, to help determine the cause of death and circumstances. Investigation involves collection of DNA, blood and tissue samples, laboratory testing, stage of death analysis, medical history analysis, witness statements and any other documentation from the scene. Forensic Pathology assists law enforcement agencies and families, and also makes contributions to public health and preventative medicine by studying the dead.

Forensic Histopathology Jobs

Healthcare Scientists

Forensic Histopathologists work in pathology laboratories in hospitals and government agencies. They undertake post-mortem examinations of the dead to investigate the nature/mechanism of death and cause of death. They may also investigate crime scenes and trace evidence to help solve criminal cases. They collect and examine DNA, blood, and tissue specimens under the microscope, and they collect and interpret toxicological specimens. They work closely with medico-legal authorities and can serve as expert witnesses. To qualify as a Forensic Histopathologist, registered doctors who have completed core training (Integrated cellular pathology training (ICPT)), can undertake specialty training in Forensic Histopathology, a 3-year program which leads to Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists (FRCPath) and eligibility for GMC specialty registration.