Finding skeletons in the closet — the ethics of DNA testing in family history research

from Big Ideas · host Australian Broadcasting Corporation

DNA testing has helped family history researchers fill in the blanks in their family trees. While that can be a good thing, it can also lead to unexpected consequences. From "non-parental events", to big data hacks, to unauthorised use of DNA in criminal investigations, this is everything you need to know about genetic genealogy.This event was recorded at the State Library of NSW for Family History Month 2025.SpeakersClaire Aird Journalist, presenter of the podcast series, Secrets We Keep: Should I Spit?Vanessa CassinEducation Manager, Society of Australian GenealogistsProfessor Tanya Evans Director of the Centre for Applied History, Macquarie UniversityPresident of the International Federation of Public HistoryAuthor, Family History, Historical Consciousness and Citizenship: A new social history and moreAdria Castellucci (host)Lead, Family History team, State Library of New South WalesFurther information:How a church-run DNA donation led Michael to be falsely accused of murder SBS News, 6 July 2025

What this episode covers

DNA testing has helped family history researchers fill in the blanks in their family trees. While that can be a good thing, it can also lead to unexpected consequences. From "non-parental events", to big data hacks, to unauthorised use of DNA in criminal investigations, this is everything you need to know about genetic genealogy. This event was recorded at the State Library of NSW for Family History Month 2025. Speakers Claire Aird Journalist, presenter of the podcast series, Secrets We Keep: Should I Spit? Vanessa Cassin Education Manager, Society of Australian Genealogists Professor Tanya Evans Director of the Centre for Applied History, Macquarie University President of the International Federation of Public History Author, Family History, Historical Consciousness and Citizenship: A new social history and more Adria Castellucci (host) Lead, Family History team, State Library of New South Wales Further information: How a church-run DNA donation led Michael to be falsely accused of murder SBS News, 6 July 2025

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Finding skeletons in the closet — the ethics of DNA testing in family history research

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This episode was published on January 19, 2026.

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