Medical Examiner (Criminal Investigator)
けんしかん（けいじちょうさかん）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
- Major : Security and Public Safety Occupations
- Middle : Judicial Police Officers
- Minor : Police Officers and Coast Guard Officers
Summary
Job involving postmortem inspections of bodies and injured persons, scene investigations to determine cause of death and criminality, and collecting and recording investigation materials.
Description
Medical examiners (criminal investigators) are specialist investigators who perform postmortem inspections on bodies and injured persons to determine cause of death and criminality. They collect investigation materials through on-site photography, injury measurements, and evidence collection, and prepare postmortem reports informed by forensic knowledge. They collaborate with forensic pathologists (physicians) by attending judicial autopsies and testify in court when necessary. They cooperate with internal police organizations and related agencies, where accuracy and speed are required.
Future Outlook
With the advancement of criminal investigations and progress in science and technology, the introduction of new technologies such as AI image analysis and digital evidence analysis will lead to stable or expanding demand for highly specialized medical examiners.
Personality Traits
Calm and composed / Cautious / Sharp observation skills / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Career Path
Police Officer (Patrol Officer) → Detective → Medical Examiner (Criminal Investigator) → Forensic Science Researcher → Police Headquarters Specialist/Manager
Required Skills
Basic Forensic Medicine Knowledge / Evidence Collection and Preservation / Investigation Report Preparation / Photography Techniques / Postmortem Examination
Recommended Skills
Attending Judicial Autopsies / Photography and Video Techniques / Reading English Literature / Scientific Investigation
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Analytical & Logical Thinking | To determine cause of death and criminality from the situation and wounds. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | High accuracy is required to not miss minute injury marks or evidence. |
| Problem Solving | Advanced judgment skills are needed to unravel complex causes of death or criminality. |
| Stress Tolerance | Due to the high mental stress of handling bodies and blood. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Primarily based on existing procedures and regulations, with little need for novel ideas. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Observation and recording are central rather than advanced mathematical analysis. |
Related Qualifications
- Passed Police Officer Recruitment Exam
Aliases
- Criminal Investigator
Related Jobs
- Detective
- Forensic Investigator
- Forensic Pathologist
- Forensic Science Researcher