Forensic Research Volunteer Opportunities

About the Project: 
Selected students will gain valuable research experience in reviewing case materials from a range of actual homicide, sexual assault/assault, and non-violent convictions, and actively participate in forensic science research. The project refines students’ aptitude for case review, evidence searching, working with standardized definitions, the limits of interpretability, and offers the opportunity to participate hands-on in influential justice research.

Our Volunteer Opportunities:

  • Students are trained and closely supervised by The Forensic Panel staff in the research and data collection methodologies for The Depravity Standard project.
  • Interns critically review pre-trial criminal case records (i.e., police investigative reports, crime scene photos, witness statements, and autopsy reports) to identify the presence or absence of intent, action, attitude, and victimology aspects of depravity.
  • The experience offers interns practice in cultivating their research and evidence review skills, which are essential to any behavioral science, legal, or forensic field.
  • Students work alongside and interact with professional staff of The Forensic Panel, with more advanced research and case work internships available on occasion for talented students at the completion of a Depravity Standard internship. The Forensic Panel also works in collaboration with its internship program partners to connect suitable candidates to additional internship opportunities after successful conclusion of the Forensic Panel internship. Partners include: the Maryland State Medical Examiner’s Office, and Beth Israel Medical Center.

Responsibilities:
Case review of pre-trial investigative and forensic records of adjudicated cases calls upon a variety of skills. This opportunity requires a meticulously detail-oriented, honest, responsible, and deadline responsive individual with precise written communication skills, and an enthusiasm for The Depravity Standard project.

The opportunity requires 20 hr/week commitment for a period of 6 months. Exceptional interns may be offered an extended internship. Office hours for interns are 9am to 7pm, Monday to Friday. We are always willing to be flexible with shift times to accommodate external work and study commitments.  

We welcome students from all behavioral science backgrounds, with a minimum completion of a Bachelor’s in their chosen discipline preferred. International applications welcome. 

How to apply: 
Interested individuals should visit https://depravitystandard.org/about_the_research.html and submit a cover letter, resume/CV, and two academic writing samples to our Research Director at internships@forensicpanel.com.