Forensic Pathologist

Details

Mission and objectives

Update

Context

The Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago (GORTT) wishes to implement initiatives to strengthen the national security state institutions. The Trinidad and Tobago Forensic Science Centre (TTFSC) and in particular, the discipline of forensic pathology has been identified as an area which needs strengthening in order to effectively deal with the current challenges. The TTFSC, a division of the Ministry of National Security, is the national organization responsible for providing forensic pathology and analytical forensic science services to support law enforcement and other agencies involved in the investigation of crime and the administration of justice. The TTFSC comprises two subdivisions, the Forensic Pathology Subdivision and the Forensic Science Subdivision. The services provided by the Forensic Pathology Subdivision are primarily post-mortem examinations to determine the cause of death in cases of unnatural deaths (particularly those suspected to involve a felony) and the identification of skeletal remains. The Forensic Science Subdivision which provides analytical scientific services is further subdivided into five laboratory sections each representing one of the main disciplines of forensic science. Currently, the TTFSC does not have its full complement of Pathologists to conduct postmortem examinations. Although nationals have been awarded scholarships to pursue postgraduate studies in the field, it is not anticipated that these persons would complete the required studies at foreign institutions in the short term. It is expected that this recruitment will enhance the capacity of the TTFSC to support national crime detection and resolution. This support will be specifically provided to undertake post mortems to determine causes of unnatural death, particularly those suspected to involve a felony; identification of skeletal remains; and histological examination of tissues. The objective of this project is to strengthen the current capacity of the

Task description

Within the delegated authority and under the supervision of Director, TTFSC or his/her designated mandated representative(s), the UN Volunteer Forensic Pathologist will: Perform post mortem examinations, both external examinations and autopsies, in cases submitted to the Forensic Science Centre by official and private clients; Complete Medical Certificates of Cause of Death as required for the registration of deaths cases, at any crime scene, facility or location in Trinidad and Tobago; Prepare and issue reports to the Coroner and Police Investigators on examinations performed, including observations made and opinions as to the cause of death; Submit samples taken in the course of post mortem examinations to various laboratories for specific analyses; perform microscopic examination of specimens; complete Proof of Death Certificates for submission to insurance companies and other agencies by persons claiming life insurance benefits; testify in criminal and civil courts and at Coroner Inquests in relation to professional findings and opinions; visit scenes of suspected homicide where such visits would be of assistance to investigators; direct and supervise junior staff, including Mortuary Attendants and Autopsy Technicians; assist in the development, implementation and monitoring of standardized policies, protocols and procedures for the delivery of pathology services; contribute to decision making in matters involving, inter alia, staffing, training, and procurement of equipment and materials for the Forensic Pathology Subdivision; lecture to medical practitioners, law enforcement officers, legal officers, students and other groups on various aspects of forensic pathology; represent the Forensic Science Centre, as required, at conferences, meetings and discussions on forensic pathology matters; advise on improvements and best practices in pathology for the TTFSC; any other related tasks as may be required or assigned by the supervisor.