Forensic Archaeology Special Interest Group

Committee

The current committee were elected at the group’s inaugural AGM on 15 April.

John Hunter (Chair)
Barrie Simpson (Secretary)
Caroline Sturdy-Colls (Treasurer)
Andy Holland
Corine Duhig

Group objectives

The group aims to

• promote best practice in forensic archaeology
• work with other bodies and individuals (including Her Majesty’s Government and the Forensic science Regulator) to ensure that appropriate standards and guidance for forensic archaeology are adopted, maintained and enforced
• establish an operative working group of forensic archaeologists practicing as expert witnesses (see below)
• Advise IfA Council and its committees on issues relating to forensic archaeology
• where possible, disseminate information relating to forensic archaeology, and facilitate the exchange of information and ideas between practitioners and bodies both within the UK and internationally
• promote training and the continuing professional development of practitioners in forensic archaeology

The group has developed a draft Standard and guidance for forensic archaeology. The adoption of this Standard will be voted on by members at the 2011 AGM in October.

The expert panel

A unique feature of the group, is that it has a sub-group expert panel of forensic practitioners. This sub-group has a closed membership, due to the nature of the work, and is only open to practicing forensic archaeologists. It is chaired by Rob Janaway. The aims of the expert panel are

• to consider (and if appropriate take steps to implement) mechanisms for accrediting and/or regulating the work of those acting or seeking to act as expert witnesses
• to consider and discuss issues arising in the course of such work
• to liaise with Her Majesty’s Governmnet, the Forensic Science Regulator and any other relevant bodes or individuals with regard to such issues

How to join

Membership of the Group is open to IfA members free of charge and to non-IfA members for an annual subscription of £10. Anyone wishing to join the group should contact groups@archaeologists.net.

Membership of the expert panel is closed due to the nature of its work. It is only open to IfA corporate members who were formerly registered as archaeologists with the Council for the Registration of Forensic Practitioners (CRFP), or who fulfil currently applicable criteria for membership (as adopted by the Expert Panel). If you wish to join the panel, and think you are suitable to do so, email groups@archaeologists.net and your details will be passed to the panel.