Biography

Kelly McGehee is a Ph.D. student in biological anthropology at the University of Central Florida, specializing in forensic anthropology. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Stetson University before completing prerequisite coursework for the M.A. in anthropology at the University of South Florida (USF). In 2020, she joined UCF’s Department of Anthropology as a master’s student and in 2022 transitioned into the Ph.D. program.

Kelly’s dissertation research focuses on sharp force trauma analysis, specifically examining macroscopic and microscopic characteristics of cut marks made by chopping/hacking tools (axes, hatchets, machetes, cleavers, and swords) under different taphonomic conditions to determine whether tool type differentiation is possible. She is advised by Dr. Sarah Freidline and Dr. John Schultz.

Before enrolling at UCF, Kelly gained hands-on forensic experience as a forensic technician, assisting with autopsies, specimen collection, and data analysis. While at USF, she volunteered at the Facility for Outdoor Research and Training (FORT) – Adam Kennedy Forensics Field, where she assisted in human decomposition research, skeletal taphonomy assessment, and biological profile development. In her current position as a Ph.D. student, Kelly has contributed to the evaluation and assessment of skeletal remains and the development of forensic case reports while assisting Dr. Schultz in forensic consultations.

Research Interests:

• Forensic Anthropology
• Taphonomy
• Trauma

• Publications