About Dana Loyal

Dana Loyal is a forensic science professional based in New Jersey. She has experience in pathology and conducting research. She is dedicated to continuous learning and improvement in her field. Dana has a passion for human biology and learning about science. She has been intrigued by biology and the way the human body changes throughout a lifetime.

Her passion for science, specifically human biology, has driven Dana Loyal to pursue a forensic science career. She decided to attend Centenary University, where she completed a bachelor of science degree in biology with a forensic science concentration. While studying at university, Dana was chosen to participate in numerous research projects. She was selected to join a team which conducted Juvenile Osteology Research in Odorheiu Secuiesc in Romania. This international research team was made up of bioarchaeologists and forensic anthropologists who processed and analyzed 14th-century juvenile human remains that are housed in the Haaz Rezso Museum. After working with this team, Dana then presented the research and findings on numerous occasions, including the 2nd annual Colloquium on Osteology and Transylvanian Bioarchaeology.

Throughout her time studying at her university, Dana Loyal continued to participate in research projects and expand her forensic science knowledge. She had worked on Dysautonomia and Heart Rate Variability research and Breast Cancer Meta-Analysis, each of which she then presented. Besides her work with research studies, Dana also worked and interned in roles that solidified her career path.

She began as an Intern at Morristown Medical Center Morgue and later worked as a Funeral Home Assistant. In her role at the funeral home, Dana learned about the embalming process. Soon after her internship with the Morristown Medical Center, Dana began working as the Morgue Tech Assistant, where she worked alongside the Medical Examiner and Forensic Pathologist. There, Dana learned about the autopsy process and aided in autopsies. Each of Dana Loyal’s experiences in professional roles, as well as in her research participation, has led her to desire a career in forensic science.

Outside of her career, Dana is also passionate about dance and has worked as an instructor for years. She also enjoys gardening and doing various DIY projects.