FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Forensic Biology/DNA Internship

1. Who do I contact to obtain an application for the Forensic Biology Forensic Intern position?

Applications for the Forensic Biology section intern will be accepted in the event of a vacancy. Please check the website for updates concerning the position. Announcements may also be posted at San Diego area universities and community colleges.

2. What are the prerequisites to becoming a Forensic Intern?

A qualified Forensic Biology internship candidate should at least be enrolled in or have completed the third year of a four-year bachelor's degree program in a natural science such as biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field. Completion of a basic science curriculum that includes lower division biology, chemistry and lab classes is required. A fundamental understanding of forensic science and completion of upper division coursework in biochemistry, molecular biology, etc. is strongly recommended. Candidates must also successfully pass a thorough background investigation performed by the Sheriff's Personnel Department.

3. What are the responsibilities and job duties of a Forensic Intern, and how does the internship program work?

A qualified Forensic Biology internship applicant should be willing to commit at least 16 hours per week for a period of no less than six months. It is desirable that the intern be available two to three times per week in order to fulfill the 16 hour minimum. The position is non-paid. During the sixth month period, the intern will learn the basic support operations of a Forensic Biology Laboratory. The intern will be expected to perform various laboratory support duties at the direction of a Criminalist or Supervising Criminalist. The majority of an intern's time will be spent performing these functions. The intern may also have opportunities for casework observation and methods training.

4. How does the training program work?

The successful Forensic Biology Intern candidate will complete a supervised formal training program. The duration of the training period may vary depending upon the candidate's prior laboratory experience.
After training, a minimum of 16 hours per week, Monday through Friday, 7AM - 6PM, is required at the schedule of the forensic intern.

5. What job opportunities are available to Forensic Interns after they have finished the Internship Program at the Sheriff's Crime Laboratory?

Work experience in a crime lab is an important factor in helping candidates obtain employment in the forensic field. However, please be aware that although many of our ex-interns have been successful in obtaining employment, job openings in the Sheriff's Crime Laboratory are rare, and competition for positions, when they do arise, is strong.
If you desire employment in the San Diego area, contact the human resources departments of the various law enforcement agencies located throughout San Diego County and inquire about job opportunities. Also, be aware that your chances of finding employment increase significantly if you are willing to relocate to other areas.

6. Miscellaneous information about the Forensic Internship program and the Sheriff's Crime Laboratory:

Crime laboratory personnel, including Forensic Interns, work with and are exposed to evidence collected in the course of criminal investigations. Persons working in the laboratory may be exposed to or come into contact with biological and/or hazardous materials and substances. Laboratory personnel are required to wear personal protection equipment, such as gloves and masks, in order to minimize the risk to such exposure.

Information concerning other positions or employment opportunities with the Sheriff's Crime Laboratory should be directed to the San Diego County Department of Human Resources at (619) 236-2191 or on the internet at http://www.co.san-diego.ca.us.