FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Have additional questions? See below for more information!
Otherwise, please contact us - we are happy to help!
What is the purpose of donating one's body or a loved one's body to this program?
The Southeast Texas Applied Forensic Science Facility (STAFS) is a research facility with a focus of study on the application of medical, natural, and forensic sciences to the human body. Your body donation will benefit doctors, anthropologists, entomologists, law enforcement agencies, medico-legal death investigators, geologists, and educators. Your donation will also benefit anthropological research and understanding in taphonomy, human skeletal variation, and human osteology. Each body donated to STAFS is unique, and a very valuable component of our research. This program is seen by many to be the perfect alternative to traditional burial or cremation. The selfless act of giving one’s self or their loved one is a deed that will leave an impact on our society for generations.
Can I pre-register to donate my body?
Yes, becoming a living donor is strongly encouraged for those interested in donating their bodies to science.
What is the process of pre-registering my body for donation?
To pre-register discuss your wishes to be donated to STAFS with your family, complete the living donor packet (please contact us if you have questions), and return it by email to stafs@shsu.edu or U.S. mail to:
Southeast Texas Applied Forensic Science Facility
Sam Houston Research Centers
Box 2506
Huntsville, Texas 77341-2506Will my remains be cremated and given back to my family after I donate?
Unlike medical schools, STAFS does not cremate the remains and return them back to the next of kin. Instead, all remains are archived into the STAFS Skeletal Collection, where they continue to provide an invaluable resource to education, research, and trainings.
Will STAFS issue or provide copies of the death certificate?
No, STAFS only completes a portion of the death certificate, but does not actually issue it. Families must request copies from the local registrars office. Please contact us for information regarding this process.
Can I change my mind after pre-registering?
Yes, notify STAFS if you wish to withdraw your consent to donate yourself. However, once a body has been donated and received by STAFS it will remain in the STAFS Skeletal Collection.
Can I donate body organs/tissue prior to my donation to STAFS?
Yes, however all donations are on a case-by-case basis.
What will happen at the time of my death?
STAFS must be notified upon death (936-294-2310). STAFS personnel will guide the next-of-kin through the donation process including coordinating transportation and signing any necessary authorization forms, and verifying information.
Is there a cost to my family after my death?
We will arrange for transportation of the body within 250 miles of The Southeast Texas Applied Forensic Science Facility in Huntsville, TX. If the body is outside of 250 miles, there will be a moderate fee to the family. STAFS cannot pick up from a private residence. Because of this, the next of kin may have to transport the body to a funeral home. STAFS does not cover any fees that may arise in this process.
Who is the legal next-of-kin?
The closest relatives of a deceased individual, as defined by state law, are considered Next-of- Kin. Don’t hesitate to call if you have any questions regarding your next-of-kin status. We highly encourage that if it is your wish to donate that you discuss this with your legal next-of-kin.
What if I am in another state at the time of my death?
STAFS will make every sensible effort to accept a donation from anywhere in the United States. It will be the responsibility of the family to arrange transportation of the body to Houston, TX.
