Liotta Noche-Dowdy is a PhD candidate in Applied Anthropology with a focus in Forensic Anthropology and Bioarchaeology at the University of South Florida, Tampa. She is currently the Education Program Coordinator and Isotope Analysis Coordinator at the USF- Florida Institute of Forensic Anthropology and Applied Science Lab (IFAAS). Her advisor, Dr. Erin Kimmerle, has mentored Liotta for both her Master's and Ph.D programs at USF. Her thesis project involved the reconstruction of the diet and migration of the Avar population through the use of multi-isotope analysis of enamel and bone. The cemetery population was dated from 568 AD to 985 AD, and discovered in Sajopetri, Hungary. Her current dissertation project involves multi-isotope analysis for contemporary populations in Florida to assist with georeferencing unidentified decedents for law enforcement and medicolegal agencies. 

Biological Anthropology offers many answers on the science of the human skeletal system and how culture and the environment have shaped modern humans. However, forensic anthropology has really captured Liotta's dedication due to the challenges of giving a voice and an identiity back to those unidentified decedents who may have been someone's missing family member or friend. There is evidence in human skeletal remains that speaks to the past health/pathology, occupational activity, diet and migratory patterns, and possible trauma and/or circumstances that surround their death. Liotta’s hobbies include painting and building art projects with her kids as well as traveling with her family. Teaching is another passion Liotta enjoys because she wishes to share her experiences and knowledge to inspire future anthropologists. 

“Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” — Malcolm X

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” — Dr. Seuss

“Knowledge, like air, is vital to life. Like air, no one should be denied it.” — Alan Moore