From the microscope to the silver screen, forensic anthropologist Kathy Reichs will share her experiences in two very different fields - criminology and literature - with the Miami University community.
As part of the Miami University Lecture Series, Reichs will present "Forensic Anthropology: From Crime Lab to Crime Fiction" Feb. 12 in Hall Auditorium.
In her lecture, Reichs will address how she initially planned to study archaeology, but eventually worked as a forensic anthropologist and later wrote best-selling novels that inspired the FOX crime television series, Bones.
"(I will) share information about my science, my books and my show," Reichs said about her upcoming speech.
Lecture series chair Lana K. Rosenberg said that the lecture series committee invited Reichs as one of this year's four speakers because of her accomplishments and the diverse opinion she can offer to students.
"With Miami's interest in forensic anthropology, (the committee) decided that Reichs would be the perfect candidate, (as she is) one of the most accomplished forensic anthropologists in the world," Rosenberg said. "We hope to bring in diversity (and also) try to challenge students and faculty to think critically."
Heeyoung Tai, a Miami assistant chemistry professor, is already thinking about the implications of Reichs' work and her ability to dance the line between science and science fiction. He said that turning science into entertainment can be misleading to the public.
"I think most of us benefit from (science-based television) as long as the public understands what is fiction and what is not," Tai said. "(However), I think anything that triggers a curiosity for science is a good thing."
Reichs agreed with the latter part of Tai's statement, saying that curiosity for science is a good thing.
"(I hope to) inspire interest in science (and) show its relevance," Reichs said. "(I want students to understand that) subjects such as chemistry or physics or biology have practical applications."
Reichs advised that students who want to be in the field of forensics should study and prepare for what she sees as a competitive field.
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"Study hard science if you want to work in a forensics lab, and do well," Reichs said. "There will be jobs for the most accomplished, but it is a competitive field."
As far as pursuing interests in several fields, Reichs advises that students follow their interests.
"If you have seemingly unrelated interests, follow them," Reichs said. "Figure out a way to combine diverse areas of study. Don't be restrained by traditional academic 'majors.'"
Reichs speaks with experience on merging seemingly unrelated fields. Reichs' work in forensic anthropology inspired her to write novels that incorporate science-based knowledge and experiences from her lab.
One student who has read Reichs' novels said that she is amazed by the possibility that the storyline could be based on a reality.
"The Temperance Brennan series is unlike any other mystery or science fiction novel that I've read because the stories have such truths to them," said Tina Ciapciak, a Miami sophomore, referring to a character in Reich's novels.
"It's so chilling to think that what you're reading could have really happened."
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