Dr Angela Clark is representing Aotearoa on the forensics Australasia stage, collaborating with leading experts and sharing her expertise in forensic anthropology.
Aotearoa’s representation at the highest levels of the forensics landscape has taken a leap forward with the appointment of an Otago academic to the peak body for forensic science in Australasia.
Forensic anthropologist Dr Angela Clark, of Otago’s Faculty of Dentistry Te Kaupeka Pūniho, has been appointed by the New Zealand Police as the Australia New Zealand Forensic Executive Committee (ANZFEC) Agency Endorsed Representative. It is the first time Aotearoa has been represented in forensic anthropology at this level of forensics governance.
“Being endorsed by the New Zealand Police as Aotearoa’s representative at this high governance level is an incredible honour and a significant responsibility,” Angela says.
“It reflects the trust and confidence that the NZ Police have in my abilities and expertise in forensic anthropology.”
The ANZFEC provides guidance for the Australia New Zealand Policing Advisory Agency National Institute of Forensic Science (ANZPAA NIFS). Angela will be part of the Forensic Anthropology Technical Advisory Group (TAG), within the medical sciences Specialist Advisory Group (SAG) of ANZPAA NIFS.
“Aotearoa New Zealand’s inclusion in the Forensic Anthropology TAG will help ensure that the forensic anthropology community in Aotearoa is well-represented, well-resourced, and aligned with international good practices,” she says.
Angela has been involved with ANZPAA NIFS since 2017 and joined as an observing member of the Forensic Anthropology TAG in 2019.
The transition from an observing member to an Agency Endorsed Representative has significantly expanded the scope of her role, she says.
“As a voting member, I have a more active role in decision-making processes and contribute directly to the development and implementation of policies, standards and initiatives that shape and enhance forensic anthropology practices across Australasia.”
She is also a conduit between the Forensic Anthropology TAG and the New Zealand Police, regularly communicating updates, findings, and decisions from the TAG meetings to the New Zealand Police, ensuring that their needs and concerns are addressed in TAG discussions, she says.
Angela has a long-standing relationship with the New Zealand Police, sharing her expertise in analysing human skeletal remains to assist in criminal investigations.
“My role involves working closely with the authorities whenever human remains are discovered and reporting my findings to the coroner.”
Angela examining a sheep bone.
A significant aspect of her work with New Zealand Police includes differentiating between non-human and human bones, and frequently involves the repatriation of kōiwi tangata to rūnaka or iwi, where historical pre-European contact human skeletal remains have been unearthed due to erosion, she says.
This has given her insight into “culturally sensitive forensic practices grounded in te ao Māori”, learnings she is looking forward to using in her TAG role to shape forensic anthropology practices across both countries.
“My representation in the TAG ensures that Aotearoa’s unique perspectives, particularly those rooted in kaupapa Māori principles, are considered in international forensic anthropological discussions and decisions.”
By incorporating tikanga Māori, we can ensure that our methodologies are not only scientifically rigorous but also respectful and appropriate, particularly when dealing with Indigenous human remains, Angela says.
“This approach not only honours the cultural values of Aotearoa but also sets a precedent for culturally sensitive practices in forensic science globally.”
In the long run, Angela’s vision for her new role is to “help advance forensic anthropology in Australia and New Zealand through scientific rigor, cultural sensitivity, and collaborative practice”.
Her vision is two-fold, advancing the field through continuous learning and research, and by mentoring the next generation of forensic anthropologists, Angela says.
And as a forensic anthropologist and an academic, she brings a unique perspective to achieving her vision.
“My research and teaching are heavily informed by my casework, ensuring that the findings and methodologies I develop are directly applicable to real-world scenarios.
“By aligning academic research with practical application and fostering strong partnerships, we can enhance the quality and impact of forensic anthropology both locally and internationally.”
At the end of the day, it is all about supporting an enduring and equitable justice system that will help improve justice outcomes, Angela says.
“Being a part of the ANZPAA NIFS is both a privilege and a responsibility that I am proud to uphold. It motivates me to continue striving for excellence in forensic anthropology and to contribute positively to the advancement of our field.”
~ Kōrero by Sandra French, Adviser, Internal Communications.