Resources

Resources

This page provides general educational and professional resources related to investigative genetic genealogy, ethics, and standards. Inclusion of a resource does not imply endorsement of any specific outcome or methodology.


Professional Standards & Ethics

These resources outline ethical frameworks and professional standards relevant to investigative genetic genealogy and related analytical work.

  • Investigative Genetic Genealogy Accreditation Board (IGGAB)
    https://www.iggab.org/resources.html
    Provides guidance on ethical practice, professional conduct, and accreditation standards for investigative genetic genealogy.
  • Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG) – Ethics Standards
    https://www.bcgcertification.org/ethics-standards
    Outlines ethical principles applicable to genealogical research, including accuracy, transparency, and responsible use of records.
  • ISO/IEC 17020:2012 – Conformity Assessment (Inspection Bodies)
    International standard governing inspection-style documentation, impartiality, and process control.
    (Reference document; not hosted on this site.)

These standards inform documentation practices, transparency, and professional boundaries. They do not guarantee outcomes or dictate investigative conclusions.


Investigative & Victim Identification Resources

  • National Technology Validation and Implementation Collaborative (NTVIC)
    https://sites.google.com/view/ntvic/
    Provides information on forensic technology validation and implementation relevant to investigative and laboratory contexts.

Genetic Genealogy Tools & Databases

The following tools are commonly used within the genetic genealogy community. Use of any database or tool is subject to its own terms, permissions, and opt-in requirements.

  • GEDmatch
    https://gedmatch.com/
    A genetic genealogy database that allows users to compare DNA data and explore potential genetic relationships. Only opt-in features are used where permitted.
  • DNA Painter
    https://dnapainter.com/
    A visualization and analysis tool used to map and interpret DNA segments in a genealogical context.

Inclusion of these tools does not imply suitability for every case. Tool selection depends on data quality, permissions, and ethical considerations.


Education & Community Organizations

  • National Genealogical Society (NGS)
    https://www.ngsgenealogy.org/
    Provides educational resources and publications related to genealogical research and methodology.

Important Notes on Use

  • Investigative genetic genealogy is an inferential process and may or may not result in definitive identification.
  • Tools and databases are used only in accordance with their published terms and opt-in policies.
  • Inclusion of resources on this page does not constitute endorsement, guarantee of results, or representation of affiliation.
  • Legal or evidentiary use of findings may require independent confirmation.