Forensic Genealogist

Job description

Title: Forensic Genealogist

Employee Classification: Genealogist

Campus: University of North Texas - Health Science Center

Division: HSC-Div of Rsrch & Innovation

SubDivision-Department: HSC-Health Institutes & Centers

Department: HSC-Center for Human ID-304600

Job Location: Fort Worth

Salary: $65,000 - $75,000

FTE: 1.000000

Retirement Eligibility: TRS Eligible 

About Us - Values Overview

Department Summary

The Center for Human Identification (CHI) is an accredited forensic laboratory located on the campus of The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth.

With funding from the state of Texas and various Federal Government agencies, CHI supports DNA testing, forensic genetic genealogy, anthropological examinations, CODIS operations, forensic training, and cutting-edge research and development initiatives.

CHI also manages the Texas Missing Persons DNA Database.

Position Overview

The Forensic Genealogist uses research skills to hypothesize the source of unidentified human remains and criminal suspects via familial relatives contained in genealogical databases; and assist law enforcement with investigative leads for criminal and missing persons cases.

This research includes use of public records, as well as genealogical databases such as GEDMatch.

This person must be able to demonstrate previous experience conducting genealogical research, and strong writing skills are required.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree and three (3) years of related experience; or any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Experience with genetic genealogy tree-building.


• Proficiency in using online databases.


• Familiarity with forensic science theoretical fundamentals of DNA extraction,
  degradation, and contamination issues.


• Familiarity with the legal and ethical environment of forensic genetic
  genealogy.


• Ability to operate under the constraints of document and record control, and
  privacy and confidentiality.


• Ability to successfully and independently research and gather information


• Ability to strategically collect and analyze data, establish facts, and prepare reports


• Organization of substantial amounts of data


• Detail-oriented, with strong time management skills


• Strong communicator in written and verbal form


• Uses critical thinking and deductive reasoning to solve challenges


• Ability to identify and consider downstream consequences


• Ability to work collaboratively with internal units and multiple stakeholders


• Understanding of and commitment to privacy and confidentiality requirements

Preferred Qualifications

Experience working with law enforcement and/or related agencies on unresolved cases.

Job Duties

• Utilizing DNA and contextual information, conduct genealogical research to identify the familial lineage of individuals related to missing persons, unidentified human remains, or potential suspects in criminal cases.


• Research and document the use of relevant public records, documents, publications, genealogical materials, and other resources to establish familial background of individuals.


• Evaluate reference sources and data for significance and authenticity.


• Organize and analyze large volume of data.


• Use critical thinking skills to resolve instances of conflicting data.


• Develop charts demonstrating family relationships.


• Create familial history narratives emphasizing points relevant to the corresponding case, including sources and supporting documentation.


• Provide regular communication to supervisor and FGG unit leadership about projects in progress.
  
  


• Special projects, as applicable.

Physical Requirements

• Communicating with others to exchange information.


• Sedentary work that primarily involves sitting/standing.

Environmental Hazards

• No adverse environmental conditions expected.

Work Schedule

M-F, 8:00a - 5:00p, with possibility of a flex-schedule

Driving University Vehicle

No

Security Sensitive

This is a Security Sensitive Position.

Special Instructions

Applicants must submit a minimum of two professional references as part of their application.

If needed, additional references can be added after the application has been submitted.

Employment at HSC's Center for Human Identification is contingent upon your agreement to provide a DNA sample for purposes of quality control to detect sample contamination.

Benefits

For information regarding our Benefits, click .

EEO Statement

The University of North Texas System is firmly committed to equal opportunity and does not permit -- and takes actions to prevent -- discrimination, harassment (including sexual violence, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking) and retaliation on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its application, employment practices and facilities; nor permits race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or sex discrimination and harassment in its admissions processes, and educational programs and activities, facilities and employment practices.

The University of North Texas System promptly investigates complaints of discrimination, harassment and related retaliation and takes remedial action when appropriate.

The University of North Texas System also takes actions to prevent retaliation against individuals who oppose any form of harassment or discriminatory practice, file a charge or report, or testify, assist or participate in an investigative proceeding or hearing.

Required Skill Profession

Life Scientists