Forensic Physician
ほういがくい
Industry & Occupation
Classification
- Major : Medical, Nursing, and Health Occupations
- Middle : Physicians, Dentists, Veterinarians, and Pharmacists
- Minor : Physicians
Summary
A physician who investigates causes of death and provides expert appraisals in judicial institutions.
Description
Forensic physicians conduct autopsies, external examinations, histological, and toxicological analyses to elucidate causes of death and injury progression, providing medical appraisals to judicial institutions. They prepare appraisal reports as legal testimony and may testify as expert witnesses in court. Affiliated with universities, public research institutes, or police medical offices, they collaborate with police and prosecutors on criminal investigations and disaster victim identification.
Future Outlook
With aging population and advancing criminal investigations, demand for specialized forensic physicians remains stable, with expected improvements in diagnostic accuracy through collaboration with AI and new technologies.
Personality Traits
Calm and Composed / Cautious / Curious and Inquisitive / Strong Sense of Responsibility
Work Style
Police Medical Office Employment / Private Testing Institution Employment / Research Institutions / University Hospital Employment
Career Path
Medical School Graduation → Clinical Training (Trainee Doctor) → Forensic Medicine Resident → Forensic Medicine Specialist Certification → University Faculty/Researcher
Required Skills
Autopsy Techniques / External Examination / Histopathological Examination / Record Keeping / Toxicology Analysis
Recommended Skills
Basic Legal Regulations Knowledge / Courtroom Response Skills / Crime Scene Investigation / Pathology
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Analytical & Logical Thinking | Required to logically interpret complex medical findings in a legal context. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Required to accurately record minute pathological findings without oversight. |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | Continuous learning is necessary for emerging toxins and latest pathological techniques. |
| Problem Solving | Required to scientifically elucidate cases with unknown causes. |
| Stress Tolerance | Required to endure psychologically demanding tasks such as autopsies and court testimony. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Creativity is minimally required as investigations follow established procedures. |
Related Qualifications
- Japanese Society of Legal Medicine Specialist
- Physician License (Pass National Physician Exam)
Related Jobs
- Autopsy Doctor
- Clinical Physician
- Pathologist