Anatomical Sciences

The Department of Anatomical Sciences is part of the School of Biomedical Sciences in the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. Its research is centred on human anatomy and morphology, with particular strengths in musculoskeletal anatomy and biomechanics, including studies of rotator cuff elasticity and nutrient foramina, and in skeletal biology and cranial variation.

The department's publications also cover palaeoneurology and population-based morphometry, including work on fossil endocasts and the Taung Child that draws on imaging and three-dimensional modelling. Further themes include forensic pathology, metabolic disease and experimental physiology, with studies of obesity phenotypes, alcohol effects on bone growth and hypoxia-induced liver stress.

Much of this research is focused on South Africa, with a strong African-centred orientation in skeletal and heritage science. The publication record reflects a multidisciplinary platform linking anatomical science to clinical, forensic and public health questions.