New York State Police Forensic Laboratory Internship Program
The New York State Police Crime Laboratory System's Forensic Laboratory Internship Program (NYSP-FLIP) is designed to provide students and graduates with opportunities to prepare for employment in the forensic science field. Therefore, this internship opportunity is intended for students interested in forensic science who are planning a career in the field.
Interns must be supervised when within the NYSP laboratory facility and may assist with non-evidentiary tasks associated with:
• Collecting, documenting and testing of assigned materials.
• Establishing and searching databases.
• Testing and validating new methods.
Firearms are expended into the test fire tank to recover bullets that are intact for comparison
Breech face markings are compared between a test fired sample and evidence sample
A forensic toxicologist checks the volume of a blood sample
Blood samples are vortexed during toxicology analysis
Microscopic examination of sexual offense evidence for the presence of sperm cells
A forensic scientist swabs an evidence item for potential DNA evidence
A forensic scientist inventories counterfeit tablets suspected of containing Fentanyl
A forensic scientist removes chunky substance (suspected Cocaine) from packaging for inventory
Visual Examination of developed friction ridge impressions on duct tape utilizing an Alternate Light Source
Laboratory Internship Applicant Requirements:
Laboratory Internship Applicant Requirements:
Applicants must be enrolled in, or have completed, their junior year of undergraduate study in a bachelor’s program*. Enrollment in a graduate program* is preferred for applicants wishing to intern in the Biological Science (DNA) section.
*Qualifying degrees may include the following or closely related fields: chemistry, biology, physics, or forensic science. It is expected that the degree will have a concentration in science classes with laboratory content. Another degree may be acceptable if there is a focus on laboratory coursework and will be evaluated on an individual basis by the application committee.
Candidates should:
- Have excellent work ethic and organizational skills
- Be adept at learning scientific procedures and protocols
- Be self-motivated, self-directed and self-disciplined
General Information:
Internships will take place in person at the headquarters laboratory in Albany, New York. Interns are required to work a minimum of 15 hours per week for a period of 3 months during normal Laboratory operating hours (Monday - Friday 7am - 5pm). Exact dates and hours will be worked out on an individual basis. Please note internships are unpaid, and housing will not be provided.
Interns may be expected to perform experiments and activities using techniques demonstrated by mentors. At the conclusion of the internship, a written summary of the experience and results should be prepared and presented to supervisory staff.
How to Apply
Students interested in participating in a laboratory-specific internship program must initiate the application process by completing a google form. Applications will be accepted September 1st through December 31st each year for the following Summer term. If selected to move forward in the process, applicants will be notified of the next steps to follow.
External Internships
The New York State Police do not recommend one internship program over another nor guarantee any availability or opportunity through the provided links below and are only providing additional resources for those interested.
Internships available outside of New York State Police
The Center for Forensic Science and Research: https://www.cfsre.org/education/internships
The International Association for Identification: https://www.theiai.org/internship_opportunities.php
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives: https://www.atf.gov/careers/internships
Federal Bureau of Investigation: https://fbijobs.gov/students-and-graduates
CLS Sections Virtual Tour
Discover the different CLS sections and view detailed descriptions of the various New York State Police laboratory disciplines. Note: the Forensic Identification Unit/Latent Prints Unit is not accepting interns at this time as all positions are for sworn police officers.
Email Us
If you have any questions regarding this process please email us at [email protected]