Forensic Anthropology PostDoc Fellow- Unknown Decedent Identification

About the role

The Forensic Anthropology PostDoc Fellow for Unknown Decedent Identification is a two-year, time-limited position dedicated to the identification of unknown decedents under the Department’s medicolegal jurisdiction.

Responsibilities

• Review and update HCIFS unknown decedent case files and recommend cases for exhumation.
• Resubmit fingerprints for all possible unknown decedents.
• Coordinate potential exhumations with Harris County Bereavement Services.
• Develop a biological profile (age, sex, ancestry, stature, etc.) for each exhumed decedent.
• Extract and submit DNA specimens from exhumed decedents to the HCIFS Forensic Genetics Division.
• Coordinate with external forensic genetic genealogy service providers.
• Coordinate media releases for unknown decedents with Texas Center for the Missing.

Requirements

• Doctorate degree (by employment start date) from an accredited college or university in Forensic or Biological Anthropology or a related field.
• Transcripts may be required prior to interview; official certified original transcripts will be required prior to any job offer.
• Maintain a valid Texas Driver’s License and ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.
• Must pass criminal background check and drug/alcohol screening (prior to and randomly after employment).

Skills

• Advanced knowledge and in-depth understanding of anthropological theory, principles, procedures, and techniques as they relate to identification of human remains.
• Ability to apply knowledge of anthropological theory, principles, procedures, and techniques to practical analysis and curation of human remains.
• Advanced writing, analytical, and problem resolution skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with lay, technical, medical, and legal audiences, and to work independently with minimal supervision, prioritizing and handling multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office.

Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume as supporting documentation, but only information stated on the application will be used for consideration.

Preferences

• Experience in a medical examiner, academic, or similar setting performing anthropology examinations, including the assessment and analysis of human remains and submission of associated reports.

Schedule

Full-time, temporary position for two years.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Office, field, and morgue setting.
• Requires physical strength to lift up to 20 pounds in the routine performance of duties.
• Must be able to sit or stand for prolonged periods.
• Routine exposure to deaths of adults and children resulting from violence, natural disease, environmental hazards, and toxins.

Reports to: Director, Anthropology and Emergency Management.