In this new companion a wide range of international experts provide a comprehensive assessment of the field of forensic anthropology. The book shows how forensic professionals construct human skeletal biological profiles and explores important new work on skeletal trauma analysis, forensic taphonomy and statistical validation of forensic analytical methods. The contributors explain the methods and techniques of forensic archaeology, including the preservation of context at surface-scattered remains, buried bodies and fatal fire scenes. The Companion also offers new perspectives on facial reconstruction; recovery and identification issues related to large-scale mass disaster scenes; mass grave excavation; and human-rights goals and practices throughout the world.