The visibility of biological distance, or biodistance, analyses in anthropology has greatly increased over the past several decades.  As this type of research seeks to explore relationships between populations and individuals it can traverse sub-disciplines; therefore, these studies routinely serve as the basis of research in forensic anthropology, bioarchaeology, and paleoanthropology.  The popularity of these studies is most evident in the volume of manuscripts, theses, and dissertations utilizing these analytical methods. 

The availability of new statistical programs and novel statistical methods, as well as the analytical complexity resulting from the inclusion of genetic models to explain relationships between individuals or groups, have greatly changed the approach to biodistance studies.  However, despite advances in the field, many studies continue to rely on outdated methods of analysis. As a result, there is currently no consensus on which data types are most appropriate, which statistical models should be used, or how best to interpret the results of an analysis.  Consequently, there is a marked need for a forum in which to discuss biodistance studies in a comprehensive and cohesive manner.

The goal of this symposium is to synthesize previous work within the realm of biological distance analysis while highlighting current research and future directions.  Scholars engaged in research focusing on population variation within anthropology in both the medicolegal and archaeological realms have been invited to participate in an effort to codify an approach to biological distance analysis. The strength of this symposium is its application to forensic, bioarchaeological, and paleoanthropological research through the evaluation of biological distance approaches in both populations and individuals.  Within this symposium scholars highlight topics such as the applicability of various datasets, methodological considerations, and statistical approaches.  Presentations also include case studies illustrating recent advances in the study of biodistance.