This Memorial Day Weekend, the Science Mill invites you to dive into the strange and unexplained at Mysteries of Science. From hands-on activities to a meet-and-greet with a real scientist, you’ll step into the shoes of investigators who use science to uncover hidden truths.
On May 26, 2025 (Mon), we’re thrilled to welcome a very special guest—a forensic anthropologist whose work has taken her from microscope labs to archaeological digs across the globe: Associate Director of the Forensic Anthropology Center at Texas State (FACTS), Sophia Mavroudas Ph.D.!
what is forensic anthropology?
Forensic anthropology is the study of human skeletons to solve mysteries about a person’s life and death. Forensic anthropologists use science to uncover clues from bones—like age, sex, health, and even how someone lived or died—helping solve modern crimes and understand ancient cultures.
Meet the Scientist: A Forensic Anthropologist on a Global Mission
Have you ever wondered what stories our bones can tell? This Memorial Day, May 26, 2025, you’ll have the chance to meet Sophia R. Mavroudas, Ph.D., a forensic anthropologist who has made a career out of studying the human skeleton to reveal secrets about our past and present.
Her journey into this fascinating field began with a curiosity about people and how their lives leave lasting marks on their bones. “I love learning about people—modern, historic, and archaeological—through their skeletons,” she says. “The microscopic changes that occur inside our bones as we age and interact with the world are like nature’s diary.”
One of her favorite parts of the job? The ever-changing nature of the work. “Every day is different,” she explains. “Some days I’m indoors working with microscopes, and others I’m out in the field, digging in the dirt. It’s the perfect mix of science and adventure.”
Around the World in 206 Bones
Her career has taken her far beyond the lab, offering unique opportunities to travel and study how life experiences shape our skeletons. “One of my favorite places to travel is Greece,” she shares. “I’ve examined both archaeological remains and modern forensic cases there, and I’m always learning how different environments and cultures leave their mark on our bones.”
Outside medical examiner’s lab | Athens, Greece
Advice for Future Scientists
To anyone interested in following in her footsteps, she offers this advice: “Love asking questions. For anthropologists in particular, love learning about skeletons. Just when you think you’ve answered one question, your discoveries lead to even more about how our bodies work and how they connect with the world around us.”
Join Us for Hands-On Discovery
So if you’re still looking for something to do in the Hill Country this Memorial Day weekend, come meet Dr. Mavroudas and explore the tools and techniques used to solve scientific mysteries at the Science Mill. From bone investigations to interactive exhibits to special hands-on activities, the Mysteries of Science event will inspire visitors of all ages to think like a scientist.
