I worked at the department for more than 12 years before becoming a forensic pathology professor at the University of Hong Kong.

The department still seeks my advice when dealing with complex cases.

YP: What is the routine of a forensic pathologist?

B: Instead of being stuck in clinics or hospitals like other doctors, most of the forensic pathologists - except those at university - are stationed in district police headquarters.

If necessary, they have to rush to an accident scene and help police investigate.

There is at least one forensic pathologist on call at all times.

YP: What do forensic pathologists do?

B: In short, we have to apply our medical knowledge to certain legal issues, mainly helping the police collect evidence. For example, we examine the injuries on sex-abuse victims and we may also be involved in murder cases.

We have to investigate how those injuries occurred, was it a suicide or possibly a homicide but made to look like a suicide?

If necessary, we may carry out an autopsy.

We report the details to the police and sometimes give evidence in court.

YP: What made you choose your job?

B: I have had a great interest in detective stories since I was young. I liked to read stories about Sherlock Holmes and novels written by Agatha Christie.

Being a forensic pathologist makes me feel like a detective.

For example, I have to establish the approximate time of death in murder cases to help the police with their investigations. Police may call on witnesses or question suspects based on my findings.

It gives me great satisfaction that I can directly contribute to upholding justice in society.

YP: Is it unsettling to see dead bodies?

B: Of course, you may feel uneasy when looking at corpses with serious injuries, but as a professional, you can't be afraid of such scenes.

What you are really worried about is making a careless mistake.

You may destroy an important piece of evidence by stepping on a tiny stain of blood accidentally.

YP: What have you learned from your job?

B: I have realised that death can come so suddenly that we must treasure every moment of our lives.

I once dealt with a traffic accident in which a man died. He was just sitting at home when a bus went out of control and crashed into his building.

No one can predict what will happen tomorrow, so why not enjoy the present?

Name: Dr Philip Beh Swan-lip | Occupation: Forensic pathologist | Age: 47