Hello! My name is Peyton Adley, and I am a senior at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, Arizona, majoring in Forensic Biology. I have had a strong fascination with forensic science since I was 13. After taking some forensic classes in high school, I realized that I wanted to pursue a career in forensics during college.

Inside the Medical Examiner Internship

In the summer of 2025, I had the amazing opportunity to intern at the Coconino County Health and Human Services Office of the Medical Examiner in Flagstaff, Arizona. During this internship, I worked alongside the death investigators and had the opportunity to go on death scenes, remove organs, tissues and bone segments in autopsies, fingerprint decedents, learn how to do X-rays and interact with the decedents’ families, medical personnel, as well as law enforcement, mortuaries and legal firms.

Hands-On Autopsy and Scene Experience

When assisting in autopsies, I had the opportunity to remove adrenal glands and kidneys, strip dura from the skull, reflect the scalp and cut temporal flaps and remove a section of the spinal column with a bone saw. I would also assist investigators with photos during autopsies and adjust the plaque with the case number as needed.

When I was not assisting with autopsies, I would scribe for the medical examiner, package and label toxicology samples, maintain the cleanliness of the autopsy area, occasionally attend death scenes, answer phone calls and help with any housekeeping duties around the office.

Putting Coursework into Practice

The courses that I took at Embry-Riddle that really helped me prepare for this internship were Investigative Methodology and Forensic Science, Instrument Analysis and Trace Evidence and Toxicology. These courses helped me learn and understand some of the language used in forensics, know how to fingerprint decedents, understand the chain of custody and how to properly package evidence.

Growing Toward a Career in Forensics

This internship was truly an amazing experience. It showed me that this career path is the right fit for me and that I genuinely enjoy it. Being an intern at the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office taught me a great deal; all the investigators and medical examiners have been very patient, understanding, and willing to teach. Being an intern here has helped me grow and further understand this side of forensics. For anyone thinking about entering this line of work, I recommend applying as an intern here.