ISOTOPIC AND ELEMENTAL ANALYSIS OF THE WILLIAM BASS DONATED SKELETAL COLLECTION AND OTHER MODERN DONATED COLLECTIONS

Isotopic and elemental characteristics of human bone, teeth and hair have been demonstrated as useful biomarkers for forensic anthropologists and criminal investigators. These biomarkers trace locations and movements of the individuals can aid in the identification of human remains. The second year of the grant (FY2010) will focus on sample preparation and analysis. The authors will continue their focus on sample procurement from the William M. Bass Donated Skeletal Collection, but additional bone, enamel and hair samples will be obtained from the University of New Mexico Maxwell Museum Documented Skeletal Collection and Texas State University-San Marcos Donated Collection. ca/ncf