Dr Judy Melinek, Forensic Pathologist

2 November 2020

Dr Judy Melinek is an American trained Forensic Pathologist who recently joined Communio as a Locum Tenens Forensic Pathologist based in Wellington Hospital Mortuary.  

Dr Melinek brings a wealth of experience to New Zealand. She has American Board Certification in Anatomic and Clinical Pathology and Board Certification in Forensic Pathology. She completed her training at Harvard University (Cambridge, MA) and UCLA School of Medicine. Dr Melinek has significant experience in homicides, disasters and mass fatality situations and was one of the Medical Examiners in New York at the time of the 9/11 terrorist attack. She has additional training and experience in Forensic Neuropathology, gunshot wounds, medical and surgical complications.

Teaching and research is an important part of Dr Melinek’s professional work. Apart from her clinical role, Dr Melinek has co-authored three books and regularly conducts professional lectures and presentations. She is frequently called upon to be a keynote speaker for clinical and non-clinical audiences. With more than 75 publications, Dr Melinek has a strong academic profile and currently is on the Editorial Board of Forensic Science International Synergy and the American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology. 

Dr Melinek’s role is to provide services in Wellington and work in partnership with Communio’s Interim Clinical Director, to support the clinical practice of Communio’s network of pathologists.