During my internship I researched the taphonomy of pig trotters, which were interred up to 6 weeks. I dissected cartilage and studied the gradual degradation of articular cartilage of the joints with different scientific techniques. This applicability of science in real life contexts really appealed to me. That’s why I decided to continue in the field of forensic science and respond to an offer to apply for a PhD. This offer came from a professor from the University of Antwerp, I worked with him on a project. The PhD position that was offered, and that I am now fulfilling, is about the building plan changes in the spine of human deceased foetuses. In this research there is an intense collaboration with Naturalis (Leiden), the Sophia Children’s Hospital (Rotterdam) and the department of child pathology of the VU. Because of the master program I was well prepared to do independent as well as collaborative research. When I finish my PhD I will start looking for a job in applied sciences, preferably in the forensic context.

My advice to current students is to talk to people in the field, to get a sense of the possibilities there are. If you know in what direction of forensic science you would like to work, it is smart to carefully choose your curriculum and make sure you receive the appropriate training (by choosing the right internship and courses).