Name: Dr. Michelle Breathnach
Course: BSc (Hons) Forensic & Pharmaceutical Science
Year Graduated: 2011
Brief description of your job: Senior Forensic Scientist at Forensic Science Ireland. Aiding in the investigation of criminal cases by examining exhibits for the presence of biological fluids and DNA. Collating scientific results in cases, evaluating the findings and presenting scientific evidence in the courts.
Why did you choose your course?
Choosing the ab-initio degree programme was an easy choice-I always wanted to study Forensic Science and this course provided both stimulating course subjects and hands-on practical experience. The ratio of laboratory work to lectures was also favourable-successful scientists need to be enveloped in labs. After researching all courses across Ireland and the UK that catered for forensic science, the course at TUS by far stood out, it was one of the few that was led by lecturers with experience in the field.
What did you most like about your course?
The practical side of the course was invaluable. From laboratory practicals, work placement and the final year project there was always a chance to enhance critical thinking skills and hone laboratory techniques and instrumentation. Employers are always seeking out graduates with hands-on experience.
Apart from your course, what do you like most about TUS?
For me TUS was a community, having come from very small secondary school class sizes, the labs and lecture sizes in TUS were small in comparison to some of the larger universities. Over the degree programme you got to know the lecturers, laboratory technicians and the wider department-everyone was on hand to make sure that your time in TUS was fun, enjoyable and fruitful in terms of learning.
How has your degree helped you in your career?
The laboratory skills, interpersonal skills and knowledge that I gathered in my degree gave me a solid foundation to work in the forensic industry. The work placement module in year 3 really cemented all the theory and practical elements of the course and enhanced those team work and people skills in me. I came to Forensic Science Ireland with a vast knowledge of the field of Forensic Biology and a holistic approach to all the forensic sciences-this allowed me to hit the ground running which benefitted me in my career progression.
What advice would you give to someone considering studying this course?
If you are the type of person who enjoys hands-on practical work and carrying out experiments then this course is well suited for you. If a career in Forensic Science sparks your interest, graduates from this degree programme have a great track record in the Forensic Field.