Building Decompanion: A step towards standardisation and the enhancement of inter- and trans-disciplinary research in forensic taphonomy

Abstract

This thesis introduces Decompanion, an innovative online platform designed to standardise and enhance inter- and trans-disciplinary research within the field of forensic taphonomy. Forensic taphonomy, a subfield of forensic science, focuses on understanding postmortem processes to aid legal investigations. Despite its importance, the field faces significant challenges, including a lack of standardised methodologies and terminologies, limited interdisciplinary collaboration, and insufficient data sharing. This research addresses these challenges by developing a tool that standardises forensic taphonomy practices, integrates emerging technologies, and fosters global collaboration. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining empirical research with analytical techniques to assess the need for and impact of Decompanion. Key findings demonstrate the tool's potential to significantly improve the consistency and reliability of forensic taphonomy data by standardising methodologies and terminologies across the field. Additionally, the integration of advanced technologies such as 3D scanning and Forward Looking Infrared imaging within Decompanion has the potential to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of data collection and analysis, offering new insights into decomposition processes. A contribution of this thesis is the focus on decomposition in a humid temperate climate, specifically within the context of the United Kingdom. The research documents and analyses decomposition using pig carcasses as human analogues, capturing high-resolution data through advanced imaging technologies. This regional focus fills a critical gap in the literature, providing essential baseline data for forensic investigations in similar climatic regions. Moreover, the thesis underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing forensic taphonomy. Decompanion facilitates the sharing of research designs, protocols, and data, promoting a more cohesive and integrated approach to forensic investigations. The platform's user base, which reached six of the seven continents within just four weeks of its launch, demonstrates its global relevance and the widespread need for such a tool. Despite its significant contributions, the study acknowledges certain limitations, including the geographical specificity of the research and the challenges associated with using pig carcasses as human analogues. Future work is recommended to expand on the study by comparing different climates, incorporating human cadavers, and integrating more advanced technological tools such as machine learning algorithms. This thesis fills critical gaps in forensic taphonomy, offering practical solutions to longstanding challenges in the field. Decompanion not only sets a new standard for data standardisation and interdisciplinary collaboration but also serves as a valuable resource for forensic researchers and practitioners worldwide. The research has far-reaching implications for both the academic community and policy within forensic investigations.