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Forensic Services Intern (College) (Unpaid)

Commonwealth Of Pennsylvania
dental insurance, vision insurance, parental leave, vacation time, paid time off, paid holidays, sick time, retirement plan
United States, Pennsylvania, Media
Jan 06, 2026

THE POSITION

The Pennsylvania State Police Bureau of Forensic Services is offering an internship opportunity for undergraduate or graduate students for the Summer of 2026 in the field of forensic services. This unpaid internship program aims to provide students with insights into the daily operations of a public forensic science laboratory. Interns will engage in meaningful, hands-on activities, including work assignments, team projects, training sessions, and educational events. They will benefit from structured mentoring and gain exposure to various networks within the forensic field, enhancing their understanding of the agency's mission, values, and the culture of the commonwealth. This experience will equip students with a comprehensive perspective on the PA State Police Bureau of Forensic Services while facilitating their involvement in relevant training programs and current services.


DESCRIPTION OF WORK

As an intern at the Lima Regional Laboratory, you will engage in a project focused on utilizing Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) for drug analysis. This initiative will require you to review relevant literature and laboratory procedures, including presumptive results. You will have the opportunity to analyze various samples using different solvent systems, reagents, and visualization techniques to derive meaningful results. The project aims to evaluate new TLC methodologies for the Drug Identification discipline, particularly in light of the potential requirement to test two samples from each item analyzed. Additionally, this internship will provide exposure to a range of forensic disciplines, encompassing evidence management, court procedures, and expert testimony. You will also experience the collaborative interactions that forensic professionals have with law enforcement and court officials, enriching your understanding of the field.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

  • 2026 full-time Internship program, approximately 8 weeks throughout the summer
  • Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
  • Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.

  • You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY

QUALIFICATIONS

Internship Requirements:

  • You must be enrolled in an accredited Bachelor's degree program (or higher) in chemistry, biology, forensic science, or a closely related physical or natural science.
  • You must have satisfactorily completed at least 60 credits by June 2026, including 12 credits in chemistry.
  • You must have maintained a GPA of 3.0 and be in good standing with your academic institution.

Additional Requirements:

  • You must possess a valid driver's license. At your own expense, you may be required to commute to your assigned work location using your own vehicle.

  • You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Legal Requirements:

  • You must have no adult criminal conviction graded Misdemeanor 2 or higher under PA Title 18 (or its equivalent for out-of-state and federal convictions).
  • You must pass a background investigation and meet Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance requirements.

How to Apply:

  • Your application must include a resume and a cover letter that describes why the internship is desired and your future career plans. However, the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education). All cover letters can be addressed to the Manager, Pennsylvania State Police Human Resource Office.
  • If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
  • Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
  • Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.

Veterans:

  • Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. *7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

  • 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.


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