Forensic Veterinarian

Summary

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 not only supports the investigation and prosecution of cruelty cases, but also 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, which primarily supports New York City Police Department and District Attorney’s Offices with criminal cases, and Gainesville, Florida, which primarily supports the ASPCA’s national criminal case response. Together, these teams advance the field of veterinary forensic science and disseminate basic forensic knowledge and tools to a broader audience of practicing veterinarians.

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 investigated by the NYPD. The team also contributes to research, training, and the continued advancement of veterinary forensic science.

Under the guidance of the Vice President of Forensic Sciences and the Senior Director of Forensic Sciences and alongside three additional forensic veterinarians, the Forensic Veterinarian provides forensic expertise on animal cruelty cases both internally and externally to the NYPD, the NYC District Attorney’s Offices, other law enforcement agencies, and the veterinary community. While there are no direct animal care responsibilities, the Forensic Veterinarian will work closely with animal care teams to monitor the medical progress of case animals and the collection of necessary case evidence.

This position has no direct reports.

• This position is an on-site role and reports to the ASPCA location 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).

Target hiring range $165,000–$176,000. Position eligible for a relocation bonus to non‑local residents. Also qualified for Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Our comprehensive benefits package includes affordable health coverage (medical, dental, and optional vision), flexible time off (vacation, paid personal, sick, bereavement, paid parental leave, and 10 company paid holidays), competitive financial incentives and retirement savings (401(k) plan with employer contributions), and robust professional development opportunities (classes, on‑the‑job training, coaching and mentorship, internal mobility, and field support).

• Provide forensic veterinary case support for NYC animal cruelty and fighting investigations and prosecutions, including clinical forensic exams, necropsies, statements, record and video reviews, discovery, and expert testimony at grand juries, hearings, and trials.
• Ensure proper evidence handling, chain of custody, transfer, and use of standardized forensic methods.
• Assist in planning ASPCA‑NYPD case field responses and provide on‑scene veterinary forensic support, including triage, documentation, and expertise.
• Collaborate with ASPCA departments and external partners to support case management and flow.
• Assist internal and local veterinarians in recognizing and reporting 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.

• Work closely with ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement and Criminal Practice and Investigations teams to enable forensic veterinary support for NYC animal‑related investigations and prosecutions.
• Work with Animal Recovery Center and the Rescue and Rehabilitation Center to ensure proper management and…