Forensic anthropology is the application of the science of
anthropology and its various subfields, including forensic
archaeology and forensic
taphonomy, in a legal setting. A forensic anthropologist can assist in the identification of deceased individuals whose remains are decomposed, burned, mutilated or otherwise unrecognizable, as might happen in a plane crash. Forensic anthropologists are also instrumental to the investigation and documentation of
genocide and
mass graves. Along with
forensic pathologists,
forensic dentists, and homicide investigators, forensic anthropologists commonly testify in court as
expert witnesses. Using physical markers present on a skeleton, a forensic anthropologist can potentially determine a victim's age,
sex,
stature, and
ancestry. In addition to identifying physical characteristics of the individual, forensic anthropologists can use skeletal abnormalities to potentially determine
cause of death,
past trauma such as broken bones or medical procedures, as well as diseases such as
bone cancer.