Thesis Title: Forensic Human identification: what works and where can improvements be made? Meta-analysis of current identification procedures at a forensic mortuary in Cape Town, South Africa.
Supervisors: A/Prof Laura Heathfield

Forensic human identification is a key aspect of any medico-legal investigation, whereby the identity of an individual is confirmed. This carries value in both the social and criminal justice sectors. Methods related to the performance of forensic human identification are fast developing and changing. Unfortunately, these advances are not always feasible, economical, or easily accessible. As such the number of decedents remaining unidentified each year places a large burden on forensic facilities internationally. Previous research conducted at Salt River Mortuary (Observatory, Cape Town) found that on average 9.2% of total caseload remains unidentified each year (Reid et al 2020). To contextualise these cases, the current research study focuses on reviewing methods of identification implemented for all cases admitted to Salt River Mortuary, both identified and unidentified. The research aims to provide a standardised guideline on forensic human identification that can assist the forensic community on a local, national, and international level.