DNA Discoveries 2026

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Join us for the DNA Discoveries 2026, at which three well-loved DNA speakers will be tutoring us, with in-depth & interactive sessions, on how to use DNA better in our family history.

DNA Discoveries 2026 Programme

Now in its third year, DNA Discoveries is a month-long celebration and exploration of genetic genealogy, presented by Family Tree and featuring some of the world's foremost experts on DNA testing, research, and results.

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Come along to every DNA Discoveries session and save with our best-value bundle.

  • A Tour of your DNA results on AncestryDNA & MyHeritageDNA with Karen Evans, 3 & 10 March, 6.30–8pm (UK time)
  • A Tour of Y-DNA with John Cleary, 12 & 19 March, 6.30–8pm (UK time)
  • A Tour of DNA Painter – demonstrations of 5 key tools with Donna Rutherford, 26 March & 2 April, 6.30–8pm (UK time)
BUY THE BUNDLE (from £79)

For 2026, we present three distinct learning streams…

Karen Evans

DNA Discoveries: A Tour of your DNA results, with Karen Evans

Join us for live, learn-along demonstrations with DNA family historian Karen Evans, packed with hints and tips to help you make more of your DNA results.

In her presentations, Karen will be taking you on a tour of DNA results on AncestryDNA and MyHeritageDNA. She will be showcasing:
•    The match lists
•    The specific tools for each AncestryDNA and MyHeritageDNA
•    Comparing and contrasting 
•    Tips and hints
•    And hidden dangers to be aware of

The presentations will include time for you to try out the advice Karen is sharing with you, to enable you to make progress on your learning there and then.
 

Dates: 3 & 10 March, 6.30-8pm UK time

£40 (members £30)

Book now
John Cleary

DNA Discoveries: A Tour of your Y-DNA, with John Cleary

In his presentations, John will be taking you on a tour of Y-DNA research and tools. He will be showcasing:
•    A tour of the company platforms
•    Mutation history trees
•    Free online tools
•    Building your own tree with your Y-DNA results

The presentations will include time for you to try out the advice John is sharing with you, to enable you to make progress on your learning there and then.

While some of the activities will require you to have access to Y-DNA test results (for instance your own or that of a relative), some of them will be accessible to people who have yet to Y-DNA test. The aim is that the session is helpful both to those who are curious about Y-DNA, and to those who wish to greatly enhance their understanding and usage of Y-DNA.

Dates: 12 & 19 March, 6.30-8pm UK time

£40 (members £30)

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Donna Rutherford

DNA Discoveries: A Tour of DNAPainter, with Donna Rutherford

DNAPainter is packed with clever tools but knowing where to start can be overwhelming.
In this two-part live, interactive DNA Discoveries series, Donna Rutherford shows you how to use the platform with confidence, breaking down the features that genuinely help you make sense of your DNA matches.

In Session 1, Donna introduces the DNA Painter site, gives an overview of its main tools, and demonstrates how features like Ancestral Trees can provide clean, visual views of your family lines. She then takes an in-depth look at the Shared cM Project, sharing practical tips for improving relationship predictions.

In Session 2, she guides you through WATO and WATO Plus, offers a look at tools such as DNA Coverage, and finishes with a clear, accessible walkthrough of chromosome painting. Interactive polls throughout will check understanding and keep things engaging.

Dates: 26 March & 2 April, 6.30-8pm UK time

£40 (members £30)

Book now
Bundle Ticket

Bundle Ticket

Save when you purchase a DNA Discoveries 2026 bundle ticket, giving you access to all sessions.

£99 (members £79)

Book now

How to join

Attend live online: The DNA Discoveries presentations will take place as live webinars on Zoom.

Enjoy the recordings: They will be recorded and available until 3 May 2026.

Practice your learning: Each session lasts approximately 1.5 hours and includes presentations, demonstrations, learn-along, and interactive elements. Optional homework may be set between sessions.

Book your tickets: Book a bundle ticket for all sessions or individual tickets for specific events.

For queries, please email [email protected].