About Forensic Anthropologists
With the recent popularity of such TV shows as "CSI" and "Bones," interest in forensic science careers has been on the rise. Forensic anthropologists are a unique subset of forensic scientists. The American Board of Forensic Anthropologists (ABFA) defines forensic anthropology as "The analysis of skeletal, badly decomposed, or otherwise unidentified human remains" (see Resources below).
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History
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The development of forensic anthropology cannot be attributed to one individual, as there are many scientists whose contributions have greatly influenced the field. The study of human remains has been conducted throughout history, and the ancient Greeks left behind manuscripts detailing such studies. Heightened interest in studying human remains developed in the late nineteenth century, fueled in part by Darwin's work on evolution. T. Dale Stewart, of the Smithsonian Institution, is widely regarded as a major force in the development of modern forensic anthropology.
Function
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Forensic anthropologists serve important functions in both the judicial system and as scientists in their own right. A forensic anthropologist can assist law enforcement in identifying the remains of an unknown victim, determining the manner of death and dating badly decomposed human remains. They use a variety of scientific methods, including statistical analysis and measurement, chemical and DNA testing, and more. Forensic scientists may also be called upon to testify in court as expert witnesses.
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Types
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Forensic anthropologists are scientists who work in a branch of the broader field of physical anthropology. Sub-disciplines within physical anthropology include the study of primates, human evolution, biology, genetics and adaptation. Forensic anthropologists draw upon knowledge from all of these disciplines in conducting their work with human remains. The majority of physical anthropologists work for universities and government agencies, including the armed forces, although some do find employment with smaller law enforcement agencies or medical examiners' offices.
Considerations
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The majority of jobs in the field of forensic anthropology require a master;s degree in this area. Students can expect to follow a course of study that encompasses both the social and physical sciences, including courses in chemistry, anatomy, physiology and archeology. Students hoping to pursue a career in forensic anthropology will also need to take courses in statistics, as evaluating data comprises a large part of the work in this field.
Misconceptions
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As interest in forensic anthropology has grown, so has the number of students interested in pursuing a career in this area. It is important to realize, however, that despite TV depictions, the majority of practicing forensic anthropologists are not employed full time in that capacity. The ABFA notes that "The majority of forensic anthropologists are employed by either academic or research institutions and consult on cases when and if the need arises" (see Resources below).
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Resources
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