<p>My son is hoping to graduate with a degree in molecular biology in a couple of years. When I was pointing out the scarcity of jobs and instability of the research field, he said he was really more interested in the forensic science field.
Just wondering if anyones child has taken this route. And if so, what they thought of it and if they thought a graduate degree was worth it in the field.</p>
<p>Forensic science is increasingly hiring PhD’s not because the work requires one, but because the testimony of Dr. Knowitall carries more weight in a courtroom than that of just plain Joe Knowitall.</p>
<p>BTW, forensic science is a very hierarchical field, and the DNA jocks are the kings and queens of the lab. Typically you’ll work in one area, such as blood and urine analysis (ye lowly serfs, ye) or ballistics, or fiber and print analysis. A PhD in molecular biology is a good inroad to the top. People working in other areas are sometimes (always?) not even allowed to go into the DNA lab, so you know your lunch is safe in the DNA lab fridge.</p>