Jesse R. Goliath

Dr. Jesse Goliath is an Assistant Professor of Biological Anthropology in the Department of Anthropology and Middle Eastern Cultures at Mississippi State University. He is also a Senior Research Associate for the Cobb Institute of Archaeology and Founding Director of the Mississippi Repository for Missing and Unidentified Persons Project. His research integrates skeletal biology with social justice, focusing on forensic anthropology, bone biomechanics, and marginalization in medicolegal systems.

• Education: B.A. in Honors Anthropology from University of Notre Dame, M.A. and PhD in Anthropology from The Ohio State University

Dr. Goliath’s work examines the intersection of bone functional adaptation theory with social determinants of missing persons, structural violence, and visibility of marginalized communities. He employs advanced imaging techniques like micro-CT for bone morphology analysis while advocating for diversity and inclusion in forensic sciences.

His publications span journals such as Forensic Science International, Humans, and Journal of Forensic Sciences. Key projects include the Brush Arbor Cemetery community restorative efforts and cross-state missing persons data collaboration.

• Scientific Awards
  • Fellow of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences

Dr. Goliath serves as a consulting Forensic Anthropologist for Mississippi and has conducted fieldwork across North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia. His current initiatives focus on geospatial disparities, forensic advocacy, and inclusive educational frameworks.