Professional Summary: Professor Stephen Nawrocki
Professor Stephen Nawrocki is a distinguished academic at the University of Indianapolis, renowned for his expertise in forensic anthropology and bioarchaeology. With a career spanning decades, he has made significant contributions to the understanding of human skeletal remains in both historical and forensic contexts, while also serving as a mentor and leader in his field.
Academic Background and Degrees
Dr. Nawrocki holds advanced degrees in anthropology, specializing in biological and forensic aspects of the discipline:
- Ph.D. in Anthropology, State University of New York at Binghamton, 1991
- M.A. in Anthropology, State University of New York at Binghamton, 1986
- B.A. in Anthropology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1983
Research Specializations and Academic Interests
Professor Nawrocki’s research focuses on forensic anthropology, bioarchaeology, and human osteology. His work often intersects with legal and historical investigations, including:
- Analysis of human skeletal remains for forensic identification
- Historical bioarchaeology, particularly in the Midwest United States
- Taphonomy and the decomposition processes of human remains
- Development of methodologies for age, sex, and ancestry estimation from skeletal data
Career History and Appointments
Dr. Nawrocki has held several key positions during his academic career, primarily at the University of Indianapolis, where he has been a central figure in the anthropology department:
- Professor of Anthropology, University of Indianapolis (1990s–present)
- Director, University of Indianapolis Human Identification Center
- Adjunct or consulting roles in forensic casework with law enforcement and coroner’s offices across Indiana and beyond
Major Awards, Fellowships, and Honors
Professor Nawrocki has been recognized for his contributions to forensic anthropology and education:
- Diplomate, American Board of Forensic Anthropology (ABFA), a prestigious certification reflecting expertise in the field
- Multiple teaching and service awards from the University of Indianapolis for excellence in education and community engagement
Key Publications
Dr. Nawrocki has authored and co-authored numerous publications that have advanced the field of forensic anthropology. Some notable works include:
- Forensic Taphonomy: The Postmortem Fate of Human Remains (co-editor with William D. Haglund, 1997)
- Various peer-reviewed articles on skeletal analysis, taphonomy, and forensic case studies in journals such as the Journal of Forensic Sciences
- Contributions to edited volumes and technical reports on bioarchaeological excavations in the Midwest
Influence and Impact on the Academic Field
Stephen Nawrocki has had a profound impact on forensic anthropology through his applied work in human identification and his mentorship of students at the University of Indianapolis. His leadership in the Human Identification Center has positioned the university as a hub for forensic casework and training in the region. Additionally, his research on taphonomy and skeletal analysis has informed both academic methodologies and practical applications in criminal investigations. His collaborative efforts in bioarchaeological projects have also contributed to the preservation and understanding of historical populations in the United States.
Public Lectures, Committees, and Editorial Contributions
Dr. Nawrocki is actively involved in the broader academic and forensic communities:
- Frequent presenter at national conferences, including the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) annual meetings
- Member of professional organizations such as the American Academy of Forensic Sciences and the American Board of Forensic Anthropology
- Contributor to public education through lectures and workshops on forensic anthropology for law enforcement and community groups
- Reviewer for academic journals in forensic and biological anthropology