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Forensics

Forensic archaeology, often in tandem with forensic ecology, is a vital tool in both justice and the study of human activity, blending archaeological and ecological methods with forensic investigation to assist in criminal, historical, and human rights cases. Forensic archaeologists use a range of techniques to locate and excavate clandestine graves, recover human remains, and identify key evidence at body deposition sites. In criminal contexts, they help law enforcement uncover and document burial sites, analyse soil disturbances, and map crime scenes to maintain the integrity of evidence.

Forensic ecology enhances this process by providing critical information about environmental factors such as soil composition, plant growth, and insect activity, which help determine the post-mortem interval and verify whether bodies or objects have been moved. This ecological insight is particularly valuable in dating and analysing disturbed sites, aiding forensic archaeologists in reconstructing events and environmental changes at crime scenes.

In human rights investigations, forensic archaeologists and ecologists collaborate to recover remains from mass graves linked to genocide or war crimes, often working with forensic anthropologists to assist with victim identification. Forensic archaeology and ecology are also essential in historical studies, examining ancient burial practices, battlefield sites, and historical murder cases. Techniques like ground-penetrating radar, magnetometry, and stratigraphic analysis allow archaeologists to pinpoint areas of interest and understand buried evidence prior to excavation.

Challenges in forensic archaeology and ecology include difficult working conditions, the urgency of complex investigations, and the complications of working with decomposed remains. Notable cases showcasing the significance of these fields include the excavation of mass graves from the Bosnian War and the discovery of King Richard III’s remains in a Leicester car park, both of which highlight the fields' impact on solving contemporary crimes and historical mysteries.

Our MSc in Forensic Investigations equips students with scientific and investigative skills to assess crime scenes, consider environmental forensics, and perform a range of evidence recovery techniques. The course integrates theoretical learning with practical laboratory and fieldwork experiences. This interdisciplinary approach prepares graduates for a wide variety of jobs in sectors such as forensic science, crime scene investigation, heritage management and conservation as well as areas within the medical field. 

Our MSc in Bioarchaeology: Forensic Anthropology offers in-depth training in forensic anthropology within archaeological contexts, combining scientific methods to analyse human remains. Students develop skills in osteology, isotopic analysis, and pathology, equipping them for careers in forensic science or heritage sectors. With a mix of lab-based learning and fieldwork opportunities, the course is ideal for those seeking expertise in forensic anthropology and understanding past human behaviours.