Researchers at the Brigham Young University Center for Family History and Genealogy (CFHG) are dedicated to helping prevent hereditary cancer and other hereditary diseases through meticulous and secure genealogical research. Our work connects participants with their extended family history and identifies living relatives who may benefit from learning about a possible inherited gene mutation.
How We Use Your Family Tree Information
Your family tree is the cornerstone of our research. When participants share their family trees with us, our team verifies this information and compares it with the trees of other participants in the same variant group. Our goal is to locate a common ancestor to help identify hereditary connections. If we cannot discover this ancestor using traditional genealogical methods, we request autosomal DNA test results for more advanced analysis.
Using Autosomal DNA for Advanced ResearchAutosomal DNA testing provides deeper insight into hereditary connections. Using DNA matches, we can identify individuals who may share common ancestors.
We copy the names and details of your DNA matches into a secure spreadsheet for sorting.
We analyze these matches to identify shared DNA connections between participants in your variant group.
We research the family trees of common DNA matches to help pinpoint the common ancestor.
It’s essential to note that as “Viewers” on your DNA account, we cannot download your autosomal DNA data, nor do we ever contact your DNA matches. Every step we take is guided by strict ethical and privacy standards.
Our Commitment to Data Security
We understand that your family tree and autosomal DNA data are sensitive and private. All participant data is securely stored and strictly protected. Your family tree information is stored in Ancestry.com’s private tree environment. Your DNA match list is shared only with members of your variant group and key members of our team, including Dr. Brian Shirts and Betty Parkins. We never share your data outside the CFHG.
Additionally, we provide clear instructions on how you can share your DNA test results while maintaining control over access to your account. You can remove our viewing access at any time.
Collaboration with ConnectMyVariant
Our partnership with ConnectMyVariant enables us to extend support to variant groups. If you would like to connect with other participants in your group, your variant champion or Betty Parkins can facilitate introductions. Once the members of a variant group express interest in working with the CFHG to discover their common ancestor, Betty will share your contact information with us. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of community while advancing our shared goal of preventing hereditary diseases.
Join Us in Advancing ResearchThank you for trusting the Center for Family History and Genealogy with your family history and autosomal DNA information. Together, we are uncovering the past to protect future generations.
Contact Us
We are excited to work with you and welcome any questions or updates you may have. For more information or assistance, feel free to email us at cfhg.dna@byu.edu or reach out to Alice Childs, AG®, who supervises the CFHG research, at alice.childs@byu.edu.
You can also contact Betty Parkins at betty@connectmyvariant.org for additional support.
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