Introducing Geno 2.0
National Geographic’s Genographic Project
Since its launch in 2005, National Geographic’s Genographic Project has worked with
indigenous communities and the general public, using advanced DNA analysis to help
answer fundamental questions about where humans originated and how we came to populate
the Earth. Now, cutting-edge technology is enabling the project to shine a powerful
new light on our collective past. By participating in the next phase of this real-time
scientific project, you will be able to learn more about yourself than you ever
thought possible. You will also help support the Genographic Legacy Fund, which
works to conserve and revitalize indigenous cultures around the world.
The Genographic Project is a multiyear research initiative led by National
Geographic Explorer-in-Residence Dr. Spencer Wells. Dr. Wells and a team of renowned
international scientists are using cutting-edge genetic and computational technologies
to analyze historical patterns in DNA from participants around the world to better
understand our human genetic roots. The three components of the project are:
- To gather and analyze research data in collaboration with indigenous and traditional
peoples around the world
- To invite the general public to join this real-time scientific project and to learn
about their own deep ancestry by purchasing a Genographic Project Participation
Kit, Geno 2.0
- To use a portion of the proceeds from Geno 2.0 kit sales to further research and
the Genographic Legacy Fund, which in turn supports community-led indigenous conservation
and revitalization projects
The Genographic Project is anonymous, nonmedical, and nonprofit, and all results
are placed in the public domain following scientific peer publication.
Introducing Geno 2.0—A Revolutionary Breakthrough
Building on the science from the first phase of the Genographic Project, National
Geographic has developed a cutting-edge new test kit, called Geno 2.0, that enables
members of the public to participate in the Genographic Project while learning fascinating
insights about their own ancestry. The Geno 2.0 test examines a unique collection
of nearly 150,000 DNA identifiers, called “markers,” that have been specifically
selected to provide unprecedented ancestry-relevant information.
By participating, you will:
- Discover the migration paths your ancient ancestors followed thousands of years
ago, with an unprecedented view of your ancestral journey.
- Learn what percentage of your genome is affiliated with specific regions of the
world.
- Find out if you have Neanderthal or Denisovan ancestry.
- Have the opportunity to help us fill in the gaps in the human story by sharing your
story and connect with other Genographic Project participants