Forensic Veterinarian

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 NYC ASPCA Forensic Sciences team has provided forensic evaluations and expert consultation for suspected animal cruelty cases that are investigated by the NYPD. The team also contributes to research, training, the continued advancement of veterinary forensic science, and the dissemination of basic forensic knowledge and tools to veterinary students and a broader audience of practicing veterinarians.

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 grand jury proceedings, hearings, and trials.
• Ensure proper evidence handling, including chain of custody, evidence transfer, and use of standardized forensic methods.
• Aid 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.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• 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.
• Interest in or experience with animal cruelty cases, including neglect, abuse, animal fighting, and hoarding.
• 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.

Education and Work Experience

• DVM or VMD (required)
• 3 + years practice in veterinary medicine required
• 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 animal hoarding.
• Familiarity and experience with evidentiary issues related to the prosecution of animal abuse and neglect cases.
• Some formal training in Veterinary Forensic Medicine (preferred) or interest in pursuing formal training.