Internships
So you would like to be considered for an internship at the Utah Bureau of Forensic Services/State Crime Laboratory? It can be a very challenging and rewarding experience if you desire to work in the profession of forensic science. However, the field is very competitive and requires substantial “preplanning” activity including contact with us (the laboratory) at least one to two semesters in advance of your anticipated application for internship. For instance, if you would like to be considered for a fall internship, then the application and discussion should occur during spring semester and the very proactive intern candidate would be encouraged to make frequent contact with the laboratory at least a year in advance.
Education
The Following are a few educational prerequisites that you must meet in order to be considered for an internship:
- Currently attending a four-year college or university or recently graduated
- Pursuing a degree in a science discipline, i.e. chemistry, biology, microbiology, physical science, forensic science, criminalistics, etc.
- Achieved a junior status (at a minimum) in college
- A letter of recommendation from the university that you will receive credit from, if you are receiving credit from your school.
- Familiarity with general laboratory safety procedures
- Conversant with criminal investigations and the need for prudent confidentiality
- Working knowledge of ethical scientific practices
Your internship will require you to work designated hours at the crime lab. We will do everything possible to make your experience as broad as possible. However, if you are trained in a particular assignment (e.g., chemistry) you may spend most of your time doing that work. The number of hours you will work in any given week will be determined up front and you must be consistent in working that schedule.
Background
Due to the nature of our work, you will need to undergo a criminal history check prior to your internship. Additionally, you will be asked to sign an ethics agreement as well as a confidentiality agreement at the beginning of your internship.
Compensation
Unfortunately, interns are not paid and at the conclusion of the internship you will be evaluated.
The Utah Bureau of Forensic Services receives many requests each year for internships. If you are chosen for an internship experience here at the crime lab, we congratulate you! We wish you the best in pursuing the profession of forensic science.
More Information
If you have met the above requirements and still wish to be considered for an internship with the Utah Bureau of Forensic Services/State Crime Laboratory, then complete the form available at this link:
Contact
Georgia DiFrancesco
Support Services Coordinator
Forensic Services/State Crime Laboratory
Utah Department of Public Safety
801-957-8546