Mercedes Doretti facts for kids

Mercedes Doretti (born in 1959) is an Argentine forensic anthropologist. She lives in New York City. She is famous for finding proof of very serious crimes against people. In 2007, she received a special award called the MacArthur "Genius Grant." This award is given to people who show amazing creativity and talent in their work.

Early Life and Important Work

Mercedes Doretti's mother was Magdalena Ruiz Guinazu, a radio journalist. Mercedes helped start a group called the Argentine Forensic Anthropology Team. This team uses science to find out what happened to people who disappeared or were victims of violence. They help identify remains and gather evidence.

In 1992, Mercedes opened an office for her team in New York. This helped her work on cases all over the world. She has shared her knowledge by giving talks at many important universities. These include Harvard University and Columbia University. She also spoke at groups like Amnesty International, which works to protect human rights.

In 2016, the BBC included Mercedes Doretti on their list of 100 inspiring women.

Awards and Recognition

Mercedes Doretti has received several important awards for her work:

• In 2007, she was given the MacArthur Fellows Program award. This is often called a "Genius Grant."
• In 2016, she received an honorary doctorate from The New School. This means the university recognized her great achievements.

Film Contributions

Mercedes Doretti also helped make a film. It is called Following Antigone: Forensic Anthropology and Human Rights Investigations. This film, made in 2002, shows how forensic anthropology helps in human rights investigations. It explains how scientists find clues to solve mysteries and bring justice.