Recent human genetic anthropology

I have a side interest in genetic genealogy, for which I was recently a Honorary Research Fellow in Genealogical, Paleographic and Heraldic Studies at the Centre for Lifelong Learning at the University of Strathclyde. My focus is on recent mutations passed down in the Y chromosome, specifically in the spread of the 6500-year-old R-M269 haplogroup, associated with the spread of proto-Indo-European languages into Europe. Their progeny today make up the majority of British populations today.

TMRCA (time to most-recent common ancestor) calculations

Book: Tracing your ancestors using DNA: A guide for family historians

Edited by Graham Holton (Strathclyde) and published by Pen and Sword (London), it aims to provide a starting guide and hints to people aiming to use their DNA tests to further their family history.

Build 38 haplotrees and data analysis

The Y-DNA Warehouse is collecting geographical, genealogical and genetic data from members. We can use this data to obtain statistical information about broader haplogroups, including computing TMRCAs, but also calibrating "molecular clocks" within that data, and reproducing migration patterns across the last 5000 years of human history. Instructions on how to get yourself included.

Here are some useful pieces of information collected as part of this process:

Information and guides


Older data reports

Even older versions of these reports include.


Links to related sites