Forensic measurements. Gloved hands of a forensic scientist using calipers to measure the dimensions of a skull. The thickness of the zygomatic arch (the bone running forward from the ear towards the eye) is being measured here. Forensic scientists examine the bones of long-dead or unidentified people to help identify them and determine how they died. Examination of entire or partial skeletons can help identify a body's age, gender, height and sometimes race. Measurements of the skull can also be used in facial reconstructions to help identify the dead person.