Forensic Medicine Consultant

Job SummaryThe Consultant Physician - Forensic Medicine holds a senior leadership position responsible for delivering comprehensive medico-legal and forensic medical services within SEHA Mortuary Services. The post holder provides expert forensic consultations, conducts medico-legal investigations and post-mortem examinations, determines causes and manners of death, and supports legal and judicial authorities through evidence-based medical opinions and expert testimony.The consultant is responsible for maintaining the highest standards of clinical excellence, forensic practice, patient and public safety, clinical governance, and regulatory compliance. The role includes leadership of multidisciplinary teams, supervision of junior medical staff, participation in quality improvement initiatives, and contribution to education, research, and service development in accordance with Department of Health (DOH) regulations, UAE laws, and SEHA policies.Key ResponsibilitiesClinical and Forensic ServicesLead and perform medico-legal death investigations, forensic examinations, and post-mortem assessments.Determine the cause, mechanism, and manner of death using internationally accepted forensic methodologies.Examine cases involving sudden, unexplained, suspicious, accidental, violent, and custodial deaths.Conduct external and internal forensic examinations and autopsies when legally authorized.Collect, preserve, document, and interpret forensic evidence while maintaining strict chain-of-custody requirements.Review clinical records, laboratory data, toxicology reports, radiological findings, and investigative information relevant to forensic cases.Participate in disaster victim identification (DVI), mass casualty incidents, and public health emergency investigations as required.Clinical Excellence and Patient CareProvide expert forensic medical opinions and consultations to healthcare facilities, law enforcement agencies, and judicial authorities.Ensure all medico-legal assessments are evidence-based, objective, accurate, and completed in a timely manner.Lead forensic case reviews and ensure adherence to ethical and professional standards.Participate in on-call services and provide emergency forensic support when required.Medico-Legal ReportingPrepare comprehensive medico-legal reports, autopsy reports, expert opinions, and court documentation.Present forensic findings to law enforcement authorities, prosecution services, courts, and regulatory bodies.Serve as an expert witness in legal proceedings and tribunals when required.Maintain accurate, complete, and confidential documentation in compliance with legal and regulatory standards.Leadership, Supervision, and TrainingProvide leadership and clinical supervision to specialists, medical practitioners, residents, fellows, forensic technologists, and mortuary personnel.Participate in recruitment, orientation, mentoring, and performance evaluation of staff.Support the education and professional development of junior medical staff through teaching, coaching, and supervision.Promote a culture of continuous learning, excellence, and professional accountability.Multidisciplinary CollaborationCollaborate closely with law enforcement agencies, public prosecution authorities, emergency services, healthcare providers, and government entities.Participate in multidisciplinary case discussions, mortality reviews, and clinical governance meetings.Foster effective communication and cooperation among stakeholders involved in medico-legal investigations.Quality Improvement and GovernanceEnsure compliance with SEHA policies, DOH regulations, UAE laws, and international forensic medicine standards.Participate in clinical audits, peer reviews, accreditation activities, and quality improvement initiatives.Contribute to the development and implementation of departmental policies, procedures, and standard operating protocols.Support risk management activities and promote patient, staff, and public safety.Research and Academic ActivitiesParticipate in forensic medicine research, publications, presentations, and educational programs.Contribute to medical education and continuing professional development activities.Remain up to date with emerging developments in forensic pathology, forensic science, toxicology, and medico-legal practice.Qualifications and RequirementsEducationMedical Degree (MBBS or equivalent) from a recognized institution.Completion of a recognized Residency Training Program in Forensic Medicine or Forensic Pathology.Board Certification, Arab Board, European Board, UK CCT, American Board, Canadian Board, Australian Fellowship, or equivalent qualification recognized for Consultant registration in Forensic Medicine.Eligibility for Department of Health (DOH) Consultant licensing in Abu Dhabi.ExperienceMinimum of 5 years post-board experience as a Consultant in Forensic Medicine or Forensic Pathology.Experience in medico-legal death investigations, forensic examinations, and court reporting within a recognized tertiary healthcare, governmental, or forensic institution.Experience in disaster victim identification and mass casualty management is desirable.Experience gaps exceeding two years may require specific DOH approval or completion of a return-to-practice program.