Forensic Veterinarian

At the forefront of Forensic Veterinary Medicine, the Forensic Sciences department advances the ASPCA’s mission by transforming veterinary expertise and forensic science into meaningful justice for animals. Through direct casework, research, training, and outreach, the team supports the investigation and prosecution of cruelty cases and helps shape the future of veterinary forensic medicine and animal welfare.

The Forensic Sciences department is comprised of two teams based in New York City (NYC) and Gainesville, Florida. The NYC team primarily supports the New York City Police Department (NYPD) and District Attorney’s Offices with criminal cases, while the Gainesville team supports the ASPCA’s national criminal case response. Together, these teams advance the field of veterinary forensic science and disseminate forensic knowledge and tools to veterinarians.

About the role

The NYC ASPCA Forensic Sciences team applies veterinary and forensic expertise to animal cruelty cases, supporting law enforcement, prosecutors, the veterinary community, and animal victims. Since 2014, in partnership with the NYPD, the team has provided forensic evaluations and expert consultation for suspected animal cruelty cases. The team also contributes to research, training, and the advancement of veterinary forensic science.

Responsibilities

• Provide forensic veterinary case support for New York City animal cruelty and fighting investigations and prosecutions, including clinical forensic exams, necropsies, veterinary statements, medical record and/or video reviews, discovery production, and expert witness testimony in grand jury proceedings, hearings, and trials.
• Ensure proper evidence handling, including chain of custody, evidence transfer, and use of standardized forensic methods.
• Assist in planning ASPCA–NYPD case field responses and provide on-scene veterinary forensic support, including animal triage, documentation, and subject matter expertise.
• Collaborate with ASPCA departments and external partners to support case management and case flow.
• Assist internal and local veterinarians in the recognition and reporting of suspect animal cruelty cases.
• Contribute to the development, implementation, and refinement of forensic protocols and procedures.
• Participate in large-scale case response and deployment as needed.
• Work closely with ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement and Criminal Practice and Investigations teams to ensure forensic veterinary support for New York City animal-related investigations and prosecutions.
• Collaborate with the Animal Recovery Center (ARC) and the Rescue and Rehabilitation Center (R&R) to ensure proper management and forensic follow-up care for animals from suspected criminal cases.
• Provide consultation across ASPCA departments on animal cruelty cases.
• Contribute to ongoing changes in forensic protocols and procedures at the ASPCA Animal Hospital (AAH).
• Participate in presenting cruelty case status at weekly Animal Health and Welfare meetings.
• Represent the forensic team during tours and to media as requested.
• Maintain strict confidentiality about criminal cases.
• Collaborate with forensic team members (NYC and Gainesville) on casework, research, and teaching and training initiatives.
• Support the development and oversight of veterinary forensic externship (national and international students) and internship programs.
• Train and mentor veterinarians and support staff involved in cruelty investigations.
• Develop and deliver training for law enforcement, veterinarians, attorneys, and students.
• Serve as an instructor or co-instructor for academic courses or other trainings related to veterinary forensic science.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• DVM or VMD (required).
• 3+ years of practice in veterinary medicine.
• Strong interest in or experience with the prosecution of animal abuse and neglect cases.
• Experience in animal cruelty investigations is a plus, including neglect, abuse, animal fighting, and hoarding.
• Some formal training in Veterinary Forensic Medicine (preferred) or interest in pursuing formal training.
• Eligibility for licensure in New York State (NYS) as a veterinarian; current licensure in NYS strongly preferred.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including clear and concise documentation.
• Organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Experience or training in forensic necropsy and/or clinical forensic examinations.
• Familiarity with evidence handling and basic forensic principles.
• Experience working with law enforcement, regulatory agencies, or legal teams is a plus.
• Interest in teaching, training, or mentoring others.
• Courtroom testimony experience is a plus.
• Research experience is a plus.
• Membership in veterinary or forensic professional organizations is a plus.

Schedule

• On-site role at 424 E. 92nd St., New York, NY.
• Schedule may include 1-2 weekend days.
• Responsible for 1–2 on-call nights per week (phone only).

Pay

The target hiring range for this role is $165,000 - $176,000. Starting pay depends on education, training, experience, location, business needs, internal equity, market demands, or budgeted amount. This position is eligible for a relocation bonus to non-local residents and qualifies for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Benefits

• Affordable health coverage, including medical, employer-paid dental, and optional vision coverage.
• Flexible time off, including vacation, paid personal time, sick time, bereavement time, paid parental leave, and 10 company-paid holidays.
• 401(k) plan with dollar-for-dollar employer match up to 4% and an additional 4% annual contribution.
• Robust professional development opportunities, including classes, on-the-job training, coaching, mentorship, and internal mobility.