Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Forensic Science Intern

🎯 Role Definition

As a Forensic Science Intern, you will be an integral part of our team, providing crucial support to our accredited forensic laboratory and its various units. This position is designed to be a comprehensive learning experience, offering you direct exposure to the principles and practices of modern forensic science. You will work under the close supervision of experienced Forensic Scientists, assisting with the processing and analysis of evidence, maintaining laboratory integrity, and contributing to the vital mission of the criminal justice system. This is an unparalleled opportunity to bridge the gap between academic theory and practical application in a dynamic, structured, and high-stakes environment.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Undergraduate Student (Junior/Senior) in a Natural or Forensic Science program.
Recent graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree.
Master's student in Forensic Science, Chemistry, or Biology.

Advancement To:

Forensic Scientist I / Forensic Technician
Crime Scene Investigator / Technician
Latent Print Examiner
DNA Analyst / Biologist

Lateral Moves:

Quality Assurance Specialist (in a laboratory setting)
Technical Writer (for scientific or law enforcement agencies)

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Assist senior forensic staff in the detailed examination, handling, and documentation of physical evidence, ensuring strict adherence to chain of custody protocols from intake to disposition.
Prepare, process, and analyze evidentiary materials using established scientific protocols under direct supervision in disciplines such as latent prints, DNA, controlled substances, or toxicology.
Perform routine laboratory maintenance, including the calibration of scientific instruments (e.g., microscopes, balances, pH meters), preparation of chemical reagents, and sterilization of equipment.
Accurately document all analytical procedures, observations, and results in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and official case files.
Assist in the chemical development and digital imaging of latent fingerprints on various types of porous and non-porous evidence.
Conduct preliminary or presumptive testing on evidence, such as controlled substances or biological fluids, and meticulously record all outcomes for review by a qualified analyst.
Support the DNA unit by performing nucleic acid extraction, quantification, and amplification (PCR) on a variety of biological samples.
Aid the toxicology section by preparing biological samples for analysis and assisting in the operation of instrumentation like Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS).
Participate in crime scene processing activities under supervision, including evidence identification, documentation, collection, and preservation.
Prepare court testimony exhibits, such as charts and photographic displays, and assist in the organization of case files for courtroom presentation.
Conduct quality control checks on reagents and supplies to ensure they meet laboratory standards and performance requirements.
Assist in the validation of new scientific methods, equipment, and software by running controlled experiments and collecting performance data.

Secondary Functions

Support ad-hoc data requests and exploratory data analysis to identify trends in casework or backlogs.
Contribute to the organization's data strategy and roadmap by helping to maintain the integrity and accuracy of data within the LIMS.
Collaborate with business units to translate data needs into engineering requirements by documenting workflow inefficiencies or needs for LIMS improvements.
Participate in sprint planning and agile ceremonies within the data engineering team if assigned to a technology-focused project.
Conduct literature reviews on emerging forensic techniques and technologies to support research and development initiatives within the lab.
Assist in the management of evidence inventory, including organizing long-term storage and preparing items for return to submitting agencies.
Participate in internal training sessions, safety meetings, and quality assurance activities to build a strong foundation in laboratory best practices.
Shadow experienced analysts during courtroom testimony to understand the role of the expert witness in the legal process.
Assist with administrative duties, including filing, data entry, scanning documents, and assembling case files for archiving.
Help prepare and deliver educational presentations on forensic science topics for internal staff or law enforcement partners.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Foundational knowledge of core scientific principles in chemistry, biology, and physics.
Experience with standard laboratory techniques (e.g., pipetting, solution preparation, microscopy, titrations).
Proficiency in meticulous evidence handling procedures and understanding the importance of the chain of custody.
Competence in technical writing for the purpose of documenting procedures and results in a clear, concise manner.
Familiarity with laboratory safety protocols, including the handling of chemicals and biohazards.
Basic skills in forensic photography for documenting evidence and crime scenes.
Experience with or ability to quickly learn Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for data management and reporting.

Soft Skills

Exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy and precision.
Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to logically approach complex problems.
High level of personal integrity, ethics, and ability to maintain confidentiality.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills for collaborating with team members and documenting work.
Ability to follow complex, multi-step instructions and standard operating procedures (SOPs) without deviation.
Strong organizational and time-management skills to handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
Proactive and resourceful with a strong desire to learn and take initiative.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

Currently enrolled as a junior or senior in a Bachelor's degree program from an accredited university.

Preferred Education:

Recently graduated with a Bachelor's degree or currently enrolled in a Master's degree program.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Forensic Science
Chemistry (with an analytical or biochemistry focus)
Biology / Molecular Biology
Criminalistics or a related natural science field.

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 0 - 1 years of relevant experience.

Preferred:

Completion of upper-level undergraduate laboratory coursework with significant hands-on components.
Prior volunteer or work experience in a laboratory, medical, or research setting is highly desirable.
Demonstrated interest in the criminal justice system through coursework, clubs, or volunteer activities.