​By Tebogo Tladi
 
For internationally acclaimed Senior Specialist Forensic Pathologist and Associate Professor at the University of Pretoria's Department of Forensic Medicine, Professor Ryan Blumenthal, doing autopsies is more than just work, it is about responding to a higher calling to be of service to the greater community of humankind.
The author, scientist, and humanitarian is a decorated expert whose proficiency is recognised beyond the country's shores. He currently a finalist in the 2023/2024 National Science and Technology Forum-South32 Awards in the 'Communication Award' category, scheduled for 11 July 2024. 
Prof. Blumenthal joined the Gauteng Forensic Pathology Service in June 2001 and has since garnered widespread acclaim for his impressive list of achievements, highlighted by numerous career milestones such as:
Performing over 10,000 autopsies to date.
One of six pathologists to perform the autopsy on a Head of State.
Involved in both Marikana and Life Esidimeni autopsies.
An NRF-C2 rated scientist, with over 42 articles published in peer-reviewed journals.
Formed part of the original paper which led to the formation of SAAFS (South African Academy of Forensic Sciences) on the 16th of April 2018.
Serves on the editorial boards of Academic Forensic Pathology Journal and American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology.
Authored and co-authored 'lightning and electrocution' chapters, in leading forensic reference textbooks. 
Recognised as a 'Public Figure' by Google in February 2024.
Established the 'African Forensic Medicine Development Fund' at the University of Pretoria.
A founding member of AFSA (African Forensic Science Academy).
Instrumental in bringing ASFM (African Society of Forensic Medicine) to South Africa, scheduled for 10-13 March 2025 at the CSIR in Pretoria (see: www.ASFM2025.co.za).
 
Reflecting on his career, Prof. Blumenthal shared insights into his passion for pathology. "I chose forensic pathology because I feel a moral obligation to serve both my immediate community as well as the greater community of humankind. An autopsy is the biggest procedure in medicine, there should be no questions about the cause of death after the autopsy is conducted". He recently received the National Research Foundation (NRF) Award for Public Engagement in Research and the ABSA Achievement Award for Public Communication of Science.  
In his speech at the NRF Awards ceremony, Prof. Blumenthal underscored the crucial need to recognise forensic pathology services and practitioners in South Africa. He highlighted the pivotal role they play as pathologists at the scene of death;  the employment of scientific expertise, the dedication, often working late nights and enduring challenging conditions.
Reflecting on his achievements, he says with conviction, "there is still so much injustice in the world. In the battle against the forces of evil and darkness that beset this world, forensic pathology is not some side show. It plays a central role. I consider it the main arena. My battle is personal, I am determined to bring perpetrators to justice".