Why the Forensic Anthropologist Needs the Archaeologist

Many scientific experts and specialists can be invited to join a forensic anthropology team and are used effectively in cases involving missing persons and buried homicide victims, as well as in locating historic burials. Nevertheless, the most significant addition to a forensic anthropology team is the archaeologist. The archaeologist is often instrumental in solving the puzzle of the burial's location, which can lead to resolving the riddle of the deceased person's identification and cause of death. This specialist's training and experience with various soils and the environmental context surrounding buried or scattered remains makes his services invaluable to the leader of a well-rounded and successful forensic team. This article highlights the importance of archaeological expertise and its use in the forensic investigation.