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Abstract

This review explores the question of whether human taphonomy facilities (HTFs) are necessary for forensic science research. These facilities are used for multiple facets of research including postmortem interval (PMI) estimation or time since death, entomology, taphonomy, and the study of volatile organic compounds. The use of human analogues like pigs and rabbits will also be addressed to show why taphonomic research on human remains must be done. It is important to look at the physical and logistical limitations of these facilities, as well as ethical limitations including religious beliefs and public perception. This article will conclude by examining future possibilities for HTFs. These prospects include mass casualty victim identification, increasing PMI estimation accuracy, validating studies done on analogues, and establishing new facilities around the world. Ultimately, the goal of this paper is to show why HTFs are such a vital resource for researchers in forensic science, first responders, and beyond.

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