Dr. Tiffany Saul

I am an anthropologist, and currently a research assistant professor with the Forensic Institute for Research and Education (FIRE) at Middle Tennessee State University. As a forensic anthropologist, I use my skills as to assist with the recovery and identification of unknown human remains. I completed my PhD at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, in 2017. While I was there, I conducted research in several areas of forensic anthropology at the world-famous Anthropology Research Facility, commonly known as “The Body Farm.” My current research interests include stable isotope analysis as a tool for human identification, trauma analysis of skeletal remains, and the role of anthropology in human rights investigations. My  projects have included collaborations with universities and labs across the country, including the University of Utah, Arizona State University, Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, and Oak Ridge National Laboratory. I established the Forensic Anthropology Isotope Research Laboratory at MTSU, where I am working to develop new methods for identifying human remains.

How would you describe your college experience?

When I first started my college experience, I thought of it as an extension of my high school education. I later realized university life is completely different from high school. While you still take core courses in basic subjects, you are able to take many more specialized courses in the subject that interests you most. For me, these were courses in archaeology and biology.

When did you know that you wanted to major in a STEM discipline?

I knew from an early age that I would be a scientist. I asked for my first microscope at six years old, and I always enjoyed exploring and learning new things. My first four years of college (my undergraduate degree) were used to study anthropology, which is the study of people. I then completed a Master’s degree in biology at MTSU, focusing upon the growth and development of the human skeleton. I realized as I studied anthropology that I needed to know how humans function biologically in order to understand differences in the skeleton that might lead to identification. While working on my doctoral degree, I took specialized classes in biochemistry and geochemistry. My research in isotope analysis involves the use of chemical signatures in bones and teeth to predict where people may have traveled during their lives and what they were eating. The work that I do now reflects my interests in many different scientific disciplines, and I still enjoy learning new scientific techniques that I can apply to forensic anthropology.

What is the most rewarding thing that you do in your job as a STEM professional?

 The most rewarding experiences I have as an anthropologist involve finding answers. Each time I work a forensic case, I hope