Boston Leadership Institute Forensic Science Program
by Boston Leadership Institute
Lab-grade forensic training in Boston
A competitive three-week residential forensic science programme in Boston for high school students, featuring mock autopsies, DNA testing, crime scene fieldwork, and expert instruction.
Mode
In-Person
Fee
$2,500
Participation format
Individual
Duration
3 weeks
Time needed
3 weeks
Eligibility
Open to high school students through competitive admissions. No specific grade or age requirements are listed for the three-week programme. International students are welcome to apply.
- Age range
- 13 to 18 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
See if your child qualifies.
Benefits
- Mock autopsy procedures led by professional forensic scientists
- DNA and genetic testing laboratory sessions
- Blood spatter analysis using projectile physics
- Instruction by Amber Paturzo (BU forensic science MS) and Dr. Rich Fox (Human Genome Project)
- Luminol testing and fingerprint dusting exercises
- Facial reconstruction using clay and tissue measurements
- Field crime scene investigations with evidence mapping
- GI Partners Scholarship available for eligible students
Skills your child builds
Key dates
Last edition
- Registration closed
- 15 May 2026
- Dates
- 22 Jun 2026 to 10 Jul 2026
How to apply
- 1Complete online application form
- 2Submit academic transcripts
- 3Provide essays or personal statements
- 4Submit letters of recommendation
- 5Pay application fee (if applicable)
- 6Application review and notification
Rules and guidelines
- Adherence to program schedule and attendance requirements
- Respectful conduct towards fellow participants and staff
- Academic integrity in all assignments and projects
- Punctuality for all sessions and activities
Fees and financial support
Fee details
Three-week commuter tuition USD 2,500. Residential students pay an additional USD 2,097, bringing the total to USD 4,597. A GI Partners Scholarship is available for eligible applicants.
About this opportunity
The Boston Leadership Institute Forensic Science Program is a competitive, three-week residential summer programme held at The Newman School in Boston, Massachusetts. Designed for high-achieving high school students, the programme offers one of the most technically rigorous forensic science experiences available to secondary school students.
Participants engage in an intensive curriculum covering fingerprint casting and analysis, footprint molding, blood spatter examination using projectile physics, DNA and genetic testing, blood typing, hair follicle analysis, facial reconstructions using clay and tissue measurements, luminol testing, dental record identification, bite mark analysis, mock autopsy procedures, and insect decomposition studies for timeline estimation.
The programme is taught by accomplished forensic science professionals. Lead instructors include Amber Paturzo, who holds a Master of Science in Biomedical Forensic Science from Boston University and works as a forensic scientist and adjunct professor at Roger Williams University, and Dr. Rich Fox, trained at the Human Genome Project and Oak Ridge National Labs with international forensic identification experience through the United Nations.
Admission is competitive and the programme is intended for high school students seeking a genuinely challenging pre-professional forensic experience. Both residential and commuter options are available. A GI Partners Scholarship is offered for eligible applicants.
What your child will do
- Fingerprint casting and analysis
- Footprint molding and comparative analysis
- Blood spatter examination using projectile physics
- Mock crime scene investigations
- Mock autopsy procedures
- DNA and genetic testing
- Blood typing and hair follicle DNA analysis
- Facial reconstruction using clay and tissue measurements
- Luminol testing and fingerprint dusting
- Dental record identification
- Bite mark analysis
- Insect decomposition timeline studies
- Crime scene grid mapping and evidence flagging
Mentors and faculty
Accomplished forensic science professionals, including Amber Paturzo (MS in Biomedical Forensic Science, forensic scientist, adjunct professor) and Dr. Rich Fox (trained at the Human Genome Project and Oak Ridge National Labs with international forensic identification experience).
Languages
Academic details
Difficulty: Advanced
What's covered
The program offers an intensive curriculum covering practical forensic techniques such as fingerprint casting and analysis, footprint molding, blood spatter examination, DNA and genetic testing, blood typing, hair follicle analysis, facial reconstructions, luminol testing, dental record identification, bite mark analysis, mock autopsy procedures, and insect decomposition studies for timeline estimation. It integrates principles from biology, chemistry, and physics into real-world forensic applications.
Frequently asked questions
How does participation in this program enhance a student's college applications, particularly for STEM fields?
The program provides a strong pre-professional foundation in forensic science, offering hands-on laboratory experience and exposure to advanced techniques. This specialized training and the competitive nature of the program demonstrate a student's serious commitment to STEM, making their college applications more compelling and distinctive.
What is the typical daily schedule and time commitment required for students during the three-week program?
Students engage in full-time activities from 9 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday through Friday, with a one-hour break for lunch. An extended day program is available until 5:00 PM at no additional charge, providing further opportunities for engagement and learning.
How are students supported in managing the intense academic environment and rigorous curriculum of the program?
The program maintains a low student-to-teacher ratio, ensuring close supervision and personalized instruction from accomplished forensic science professionals. This supportive environment helps students navigate the challenging curriculum and maximize their learning outcomes.
What are the key differences between the residential and commuter options, and how do they impact the overall program experience?
Residential students benefit from an immersive experience, including supervised evening activities and weekend trips into Boston, fostering a strong community and deeper engagement. Commuter students participate in the core academic program during the day, returning home in the evenings.
Are there opportunities for students to continue their engagement with forensic science or the Boston Leadership Institute after the program concludes?
While the program is a standalone experience, the skills and knowledge gained provide a robust foundation for future studies in forensic science or related STEM fields. Students can leverage their experience for further academic pursuits and career exploration.
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