Green fingerprints on a slide in front of vials. Green fingerprints on a slide in front of vials.

Cold Case Analysis Center

About

The Cold Case Analysis Center (CCAC) moved to the University at Albany in 2024 after the closure of the College of Saint Rose. The CCAC aids investigative agencies and families in the resolution of cases while providing students with a hands-on, project-based learning experience. 

The University at Albany Cold Case Analysis Center provides education in forensic science, law and criminal investigation techniques. Working a case allows students to develop critical thinking and organizational skills, which can be applicable for any career path. Participating in the center also allows students to acquire a more complete understanding of the challenges facing investigative agencies, prosecutors and other professionals.   

 

Benefits to Partners 

The CCAC partners with investigative agencies, prosecutors and families to try to bring resolution to cases. CCAC students can provide different viewpoints and opinions for cases, help organize and analyze files, identify additional persons of interest or witnesses and other key investigative activities. If you have a case that could benefit from the assistance of dedicated and enthusiastic interns, please contact the CCAC. 
 

Contact the Cold Case Analysis Center
Camela Hughes
Draper Hall, Room 202

135 Western Avenue
Albany, NY 12203
United States

Email
[email protected]
Phone
518-591-8736

Internship Program

At the Cold Case Analysis Center (CCAC) at the University at Albany, you’ll apply what you learn in your classes to real-life situations. With a Cold Case internship, you’ll get hands-on experience while working side-by-side with investigative agencies, prosecutors and families to bring resolution to cases.  

You’ll work in student teams with a designated case leader. The case leader will be responsible for coordinating group activities and communicating with investigators. This leadership role helps you develop confidence as you guide your group to becoming an effective team unit.  


Intern responsibilities

  • Organize and analyze case files
  • Collaborate with investigative agencies
  • Identify suspects
  • Make recommendations for additional interviews and forensic testing
  • Reconstruct crime scenes
  • Develop crime maps
  • Engage in archival research
  • Identify and locate individuals related to the crime 

 

Internship Opportunities 

The Cold Case Internship is a variable credit internship for both undergraduate and graduate students in any major.  

While the CCAC may be of particular interest for criminal justice majors, the nature of the cases and the techniques used to assess cases may be of interest for many students, including students majoring in psychology, sociology, anthropology, computer science, digital forensics, cybersecurity, homeland security and history.  

To qualify, you must complete the application below, provide a letter of recommendation and pass a background check. 

Partnership with the Rochester Police Department

The Cold Case Analysis Center has formed a collaborative partnership with the City of Rochester Police Department to support the investigation and resolution of unsolved homicide cases. 

This partnership brings together academic resources, innovative investigative techniques and dedicated student researchers under faculty supervision with the resources of a department that is heavily invested in resolving these cases. The Rochester Police Department provides access to selected cases and works closely with the Center to prioritize leads, generate new theories and apply modern investigative methods.   

More information about the work of the RPD Major Crimes Section.