Partnerships with First Nations of BC on Studies that Include DNA Analysis

Over the past decade, we have partnered with First Nations of British Columbia on projects that include DNA analysis of both living community members and ancestors, the latter through the analysis of ancient skeletal remains. 

These partnerships, based on mutual respect and communication, were created in the wake of antagonistic relationships elsewhere between scientific researchers and indigenous peoples that impeded genomic knowledge among Native American community members. These conversations are facilitated through talks in First Nation communities and a one-week “hands on” workshop for indigenous community members called the Summer Internship for Native Americans in Genomics (SING). This lecture explores how First Nations are using genomics as a tool to further their interests, while employing safeguards to minimize any potential risks. 

 

Dr. Ripan Malhi is Associate Professor in the Department of Anthropology at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. 

 

This talk was presented at the DNA and Indigeneity Public Symposium, held on Oct 22, 2015, at SFU Harbour Centre in Vancouver, British Columbia.