The primary objective of the Morrissey DNA project is to try and develop an understanding of the origins and development of the surname using DNA analysis, in addition to conventional genealogy and historical research.  A comparison of the Y-DNA of men with the surname Morrissey or variants has shown a diversity of genetic Morrissey families and their relationships with other surnames and Y-DNA haplogroups. In time, it may be possible to determine specific genetic signatures and markers for individual Morrissey families. This should be useful in assisting those with little or no genealogical information in pinpointing their Morrissey family.

The project is principally a Y-DNA study. However, the rapid growth in autosomal type tests in the last few years should also assist in re-uniting Morrissey families that have been separated over the generations. Currently, the analytic tools provided to the project are not particularly focused on autosomal testing, but this will hopefully change in the future.