Jesse Goliath

Jesse Goliath is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Anthropology and Middle Eastern Cultures at Mississippi State University, where he contributes to the academic and professional development of future forensic scientists. His work bridges teaching, research, and real-world forensic casework, serving both academic and law enforcement communities.

His research interests lie in forensic anthropology, biological anthropology, and the application of archaeological techniques to forensic investigations. He focuses on creating biological profiles from human remains—estimating sex, age, stature, trauma, and time since death—to assist in identifying individuals. He also contributes to trauma assessment and evidence recovery in criminal investigations.

Goliath’s professional experience includes working with the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency to identify missing U.S. service members from past conflicts. He is currently developing the Mississippi Repository for Missing and Unidentified Persons in collaboration with Dr. Jordan Lynton Cox, a statewide database to support law enforcement and families. He also serves as the American Anthropological Association’s liaison to the Register of Professional Archaeologists.

As an educator, he teaches courses in forensic and biological anthropology and emphasizes hands-on training for students. His work provides critical support to local and state agencies, helping meet the growing demand for qualified forensic professionals in Mississippi.