Two lectures on genetic testing and genealogy from Siegal Lifelong Learning

The Siegal Lifelong Learning Program will host two lectures on genetic testing and genealogy Sunday, Nov. 11, at the Landmark Centre, (25700 Science Park Dr., Beachwood). Attendees can choose to go to one or both lectures, each presented by Lara Diamond, a lifelong researcher and member of the Association of Professional Genealogists. The lectures will be free for members of Siegal Lifelong Learning and cost $5 each for nonmembers.

“DNA 101: How to Use Genetic Testing for Genealogical Research”

Recent scientific advances in genetic sequencing allow consumers to test their own DNA in a quick and non-invasive process. In this lecture, Diamond will explain how you can leverage such tests to assist in your genealogical research. She will discuss the various sorts of tests available (including autosomal, yDNA and mtDNA) and explain the types of genealogical questions each one can help to answer. Attendees will learn how each company presents results, the strategies for transferring results from one company to others and how to use them to assist in genealogical research. The lecture will take place from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Register for “DNA 101: How to Use Genetic Testing for Genealogical Research.”.

“Sorting Out Distant Cousins from Close Family: Genetic-Testing in Cases of Endogamy”

Genetic genealogy is particularly daunting for those whose forebears come from endogamous populations (such as Ashkenazi Jews, Native Hawaiians and Cajuns, who have married in a closed group for generations). The work of identifying actual relatives from the mass of genetic distantly-related family can be frustrating. Drawing on case studies, this lecture will explain how you can have success in such a situation. For Diamond, this work has led to reunification with many relatives, including a family branch thought to have been killed in the Holocaust. The lecture will take place from 3 to 4 p.m. Register for “Sorting Out Distant Cousins from Close Family: Genetic-Testing in Cases of Endogamy.”.