Join a real-time, landmark research project! Learn something about your deep ancestry while contributing to the overall success of the Project.
The Genographic Project is a global research partnership of National Geographic and IBM. With support for field research from the Waitt Family Foundation, Dr. Spencer Wells and a group of the world's leading scientists will attempt to collect and analyze more than 100,000 DNA samples from indigenous people all over the world. The goal of the Genographic Project is to learn about the migratory paths our ancestors took and how humankind populated the planet. Find more detailed information on the Genographic Project, at www.nationalgeographic.com/genographic
The general public can actually take an active part in this remarkable effort by purchasing a Genographic Project Public Participation Kit and by submitting an anonymous sample of their DNA using an easy and painless cheek swab. By participating, you will not only contribute to this great endeavor, but you may discover something fascinating about your own genetic past as well. Furthermore, the proceeds from the sales of the Kits will be channeled back into the Project to support additional research and to fund education, cultural conservation, and language revitalization efforts for indigenous and traditional communities around the world.
The Participation Kit includes the following:
- DVD with a Genographic Project overview hosted by Dr. Spencer Wells, visual instructions on how to collect a DNA sample using a cheek scraper, and a bonus feature program the National Geographic Channel/PBS production The Journey of Man.
- Exclusive National Geographic map illustrating human migratory history and created especially for the Genographic Project.
- Buccal swab kit, instructions, and a self-addressed envelope in which to return your cheek swab sample.
- Confidential Genographic Project ID # (GPID) to anonymously access your results at www.nationalgeographic.com/genographic
The purchase price also includes the cost of the testing and analysis that will take place once your sample is sent in.
Once you have completed the cheek swabbing process, you will secure the swabs inside the transport tubes, complete the informed consent form and mail the tubes and form off to the lab using the supplied envelope. It can take the lab several weeks to process and analyze your DNA. In the meantime, you can visit the Genographic web site to see where your sample is in the analysis process and learn about current processing times.
You must read and accept the terms and conditions to participate in the Genographic Project. By selecting "I Accept" and clicking the "Add to Cart" button, you have indicated your acceptance of the terms and conditions to participate.
The Participation Kit costs $99.95 plus shipping and handling, and tax where applicable. Kits are shipped via USPS and Canada Post. After we have sent your kit for shipment we will e-mail you a ship confirmation notice that includes a link to track your order.
