Genealogies and Research Networks in Forensic Anthropology: Hidden biases and Ethical Concerns

Presented @VIII Congresso da Associação Portuguesa de Antropologia

Short Abstract: In the last 20 years, scientific publications based on forensic anthropology have increased significantly. These testify to the rising profile of research, methodological developments and diversification of institutions, scholars and other stakeholders involved in Forensic Anthropology research (FAR). This paper explores the profile of those involved in the FAR.

Long Abstract: Scientific publications based on forensic anthropology have increased significantly in the last 20 years, testifying to the growing landscape of research agendas, scholarly research, methodological increments, and teaching developments. Forensic Anthropology (FA) has become a buzzword in higher education institutes, and amongst undergraduate and postgraduate students, with its impact expanding beyond academia. This paper explores the profile of those involved in the FA research. It will explore this via the analysis of data associated with peer-review Journals. It will target major journals that publish FA research, within the timeframe comprehending 2010-2021/2022. Data will 1) identify who (individuals and institutions) is publishing in Forensic Anthropology (FA); 2) identify research agendas/topics, as well as repeated/duplicated research agendas/topics and reviews; 3) identify major funding bodies Results will highlight singular scholars, research networks and institutions, quantifying research outputs, further identifying networks, institutional and funding biases. It will also allow pinpointing intertwined relationships that may bias/act on science production that may not be transparent to scholars. This approach will identify hidden biases, discussed within the framework of  ethical concerns on research, and scientific research driven by the analysis and curation of human remains.