Forensics (Grades 9-12)

ÌýÌýFrequently Asked QuestionsÌý

June 22-26 (Online registration closes JuneÌý12. Call 303-492-7188 to register after this date.)
9:30am-3pm

July 20-24Ìý(Online registration closes July 10. Call 303-492-7188 to register after this date.)
9:30am-3pm

$650
Location:ÌýJennie Smoly Caruthers Biotechnology Building

To solve a case, detectives and forensic scientists work together to identify relevant data, analyze evidence, and draw sound conclusions. Become a forensic scientist for the week and put your skills to the test to solve a mock case. We’ll make detailed observations to sketch a mock crime scene and review our persons of interest. We'll then use biology, chemistry, and physics to analyze evidence such as fingerprints, hair, blood, and DNA and perform a mock autopsy. By the end of the week, it will be up to your team to close the case by determining the cause, mechanism, and manner of death.

Learning Objectives:Ìý

  • Document a potential crime scene using photography/sketches, accurate measurements & scale, and scientific questioning.
  • Create a timeline of events by analyzing digital evidence and statements from persons of interest.
  • Analyze trace evidence (hair/fingerprints/footprints) from the scene to find matches with persons of interest based on notable patterns.
  • Design and conduct an experiment to help determine the mechanism of the decedent's injury.
  • Summarize the structure and function of DNA and describe how gel electrophoresis can be used to characterize DNA by separating fragments by size.
  • Describe the structure and function of major human body systems by completing a mock autopsy.
  • Perform and interpret a forensic toxicology diagnostic test to determine the identity of an unknown substance.
  • Synthesize case evidence to determine cause, mechanism, and manner of death.

What to Bring:ÌýWhile at Science Discovery, participants are expected to store their personal belongings in their backpack. Space is limited so please limit the number of personal items brought from home. All items should be labeled with the participant’s first and last name in case an item is misplaced.ÌýPlease send your child with the following each day:

  • A backpack (sized to fit your child) for carrying personal items and any camp materials they will be bringing home
  • Filled water bottle(s)
  • 1-2 snacks (or more), depending on the child's needs
  • A sack lunch that does not require refrigeration
  • Closed-toed shoes
  • A hair tie to hold back lengthy hair, if applicable
  • All camps spend a portion of each day outside. Please send your child with clothing appropriate for the daily forecasted weather (jacket, sweatshirt,Ìýrain poncho, etc.)
  • Optional: A mask or any additional Personal Protective Equipment the child wishes to utilize

​Grade Policy:ÌýCU Science Discovery serves students in grades K-12. Careful consideration is used to determine grade levels for all camps and classes. To provide the highest quality experience for all participants, it is necessary to adhere to the specified grade range for all camps and classes.

Cancellation and Transfer Policy:ÌýScience Discovery has designed its cancellation policy to minimize the number of camp and classÌýspots that are unused due to last-minute cancellations. Cancellations made more than 30 days prior to the start of the camp/class will incur a $35 administrative fee. NoÌýrefunds will be given for cancellations made within 30 days of the start of the camp/class. In the event that a camp/classÌýis cancelled by Science Discovery, registrants will receive a full refund.ÌýTransfer requests made up to 30 days prior to the start of a camp/class will incur a $15ÌýadministrativeÌýfee. Transfer requests made within 30Ìýdays of the start of a camp/class will incur a $35 administrative fee.