Interns
Interns are the backbone of FIRS and assist in many aspects of running the facility, including body placement, maceration, curating skeletal remains, data collection, photography, skeletal analyses, and research.The FIRS Internship (ANTH 499) is a formal course that can be taken to earn 1 - 6 credits at CMU. Enrollment is limited to six interns per semester and acceptance into the program is at instructor discretion. FIRS intern cohorts fill quickly and have a waitlist. Students interested in pursuing an internship should inquire early.
You are required to work 45 hours for every credit enrolled (3 Credits = 135 hours of work within a semester). It is recommended that interns enroll in a minimum of three credits.
Visit CMU's internship page for more information on internships.
CMU Students
Potential interns may register for ANTH 499 with the consent of FIRS Director, Dr. Baigent. Interns do not need to be Anthropology majors or Forensic Anthropology minors. Forensic science, criminal justice, biology, and chemistry students are also considered. Students will need to be in their junior or senior year, and, if not a ANTH student, they will need to have taken a previous ANTH course. See Dr. Baigent for further details.
Non-CMU Students
Students from outside institutions interested in pursuing a FIRS internship should first reach out to the FIRS Director Dr. Baigent (cbaigent@coloradomesa.edu). Anthropology or forensic science students will be given preference. You will be required to submit an application packet consisting of (1) a cover letter explaining why this internship is of interest; (2) the application form; and (3) a letter of reference from your adviser. Do not submit an application packet without first discussing your interest with Dr. Baigent. Following successful application review, candidates will be asked to interview with both the FIRS Director and Laboratory Manager.
If accepted into the program, you will be required to enroll at CMU as a non-degree seeking student. See the CMU website for current information regarding course fees.
You are required to work 45 hours for every credit enrolled (3 Credits = 135 hours of work within a semester). It is recommended that interns enroll in a minimum of three credits.
Students will be expected to live in the Grand Junction area for the duration of the internship. The lab is located seven miles from the CMU main campus and is not on a bus line so transportation is required. Students with a GPA below 3.0 or a prior felony conviction will not be considered. Download and complete the registration application and submit a single package containing all required application materials.
Due to limited space, applications are accepted throughout the year.
Volunteers
Volunteers are required to first complete a FIRS internship, and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher. We do not accept volunteers that have not completed an internship, regardless of education and experience. Volunteers will be required to complete a volunteer packet before work begins and will be asked to commit to a schedule.
Immunizations
Interns and volunteers must have their Hepatitis B series of vaccinations and a current tetanus shot. Outdated immunizations will require a booster, immunization questions should be directed to your primary care physician.
By signing the FIRS internship application you agree to provide accurate information and hold Colorado Mesa University and the Forensic Investigation Research Station harmless from vaccination related harm.
Health Insurance
Health insurance is required for all students and volunteers. Colorado Mesa University and the Forensic Investigation Research Station are not liable for injury incurred and does not cover doctors' appointments or medical bills if an accident occurs.
Risks
The most common risks are associated with the high elevation arid environment (dehydration, sunburn, snakes, and scorpions). Mishandling of sharp instruments, and failing to adhere to blood born pathogen protocol increase risk. The FIRS does not accept donations with some types of communicable diseases (TB, MRSA, or hepatitis), however there is always minimal risk of coming into contact with a decedent with an undiagnosed disease. FIRS personnel are required to adhere to trained safety procedures to minimize risk for all.