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Master
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Forensic Science

Lufuno Tshivhasa (Bsc. Biological Sciences)

My name is Lufuno Tshivhase, born in Venda, South Africa. I pursued Biological Sciences and specialized in Forensic Science during my fourth year (known as an honours year in South Africa). It was during my third year of studies, while attending a class taught by an excellent professor (who is now my research project supervisor), that I discovered my passion for the forgotten missing individuals. Growing up in post-Apartheid South Africa, I was familiar with stories of the missing, and understanding the significance of providing closure to families ignited a fire within me.

In 2021, I embarked on this master's programme with a clear goal in mind. Forensic Science had always been my calling, and this programme offered an exciting opportunity to explore disciplines that were yet to be fully developed in my country. I saw this as a chance to acquire new expertise and contribute to alleviating the burden on South Africa's justice system.

My research project focuses on developing an age-at-death estimation method for elderly remains, based on ossification patterns on costal cartilage visible on Lodox scans (similar to X-ray). This method has the potential to fill a critical gap in age estimation techniques for elderly individuals.

At the moment, a typical week for me involves attending engaging lectures in my specialization courses, which include topics like Transnational Organized Crime and Corporations and International Crime. I find learning about how forensic science applies to diverse areas like arms trafficking and corporate and financial crime highly intriguing. In my spare time, I work at a bar and a hotel. As I complete my research project and near the end of my master's journey, I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the field of Forensic Science in South Africa.