Humans of York: Nicholas Marquez-Grant
We’ve likely all seen forensic anthropologists on TV solving crimes - but how does one get started on such a fascinating career?
This week’s Human of York is alum Nicholas Marquez-Grant, who graduated in 1997 and has gone on to a remarkable career.
“York has given me opportunities at different levels. I grew up in Spain and was educated there up to the age of 18 years, so everything was very new and exciting for me!
“I loved living on campus, as well as studying archaeology in the aesthetics of an old building.
"I also loved the college structure and life; I am still in touch with most people I met. I have good photographs and memories and it was amazing for me to try new things.
“I miss the excitement of starting at university, of starting new things, experiencing things. But most of all, I remember the lectures and seminars I had, the excitement of learning, the archaeological excavations I took part in.
“The education I was given has served as the foundation for many years that followed and I still use some of what I was taught at York today.
"I didn’t have my mind set on becoming a forensic anthropologist.
“One day, while working for an archaeological company, someone asked if I could help with a forensic case.
"Later that year, I was given a contract and for six years I was probably one of four anthropologists who worked in England and Wales, working with over 20 police forces.
“My archaeological background at York helped me with forensic archaeology, which is the search and recovery (excavation) of human remains from scenes of crime. I am now accredited by the Royal Anthropological Institute as a Chartered Forensic Anthropologist.
“I have been examining human remains for over 20 years now, from prehistory to the present day. One of the best things is helping people when we can.
“I am now dealing as a forensic anthropologist with WWI and WWII cases, soldiers who died during combat.
"I enjoy the adrenaline, the excitement and the reward of helping to provide a dignified burial and closure to families where possible. I can appreciate how from one small fragment that we find, we are able to identify a person.”
Read all about Nicholas’ unusual careerNicholas Marquez-Grant, alum, Humans of York, August 2023