Bones Beneath the Surface : DNA, Isotopes, and Proteins in Submerged Contexts

This thesis explores how DNA, isotopes, and proteins preserve and behave in marine osteological contexts. Submerged skeletal remains offer valuable molecular data, but postmortem processes such as microbial activity, salinity, and sediment composition can degrade or redistribute biomolecules. Using a comparative, qualitative analysis of peer-reviewed sources, this study investigates preservation patterns and the challenges of biomolecular analysis in marine environments. The research applies both forensic and post-humanist theoretical frameworks to interpret how molecular data interacts with environmental conditions. Findings highlight that while DNA often degrades rapidly, isotopic and proteomic data may persist, providing complementary or alternative insights. The study additionally identifies methodological gaps, including the lack of marine-specific sampling protocols and under use of integrated analysis strategies. The thesis concludes that a resilient analytical approach to submerged human remains requires combining biomolecular methods and tailoring them to taphonomic context.