Using Race, Ethnicity & Ancestry as Population Descriptors in Genetics and Genomics Research

For decades, genetics and genomics researchers have used race, ethnicity, ancestry, and other population descriptors in research that has opened powerful areas of study of human history and evolution, biology, diseases and heritable traits. But these descriptors are slippery words with hard-to-pin-down meanings. They are also contested words, and the use of “race” as a surrogate for biology or genetics has led to confusion, discrimination and increased race-based health inequities.

In March 2023, a national committee co-chaired by Duke Professor Charmaine Royal and NYU Professor Aravinda Chakravarti issued a report that emphasized the high stakes of ensuring that genetics research benefits all groups in society and mitigates harm.

This March 19 symposium at Duke will highlight and stimulate discussion about the recommendations from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine report and will include brief presentations from Drs. Royal and Chakravarti, followed by a panel discussion and reception in Jones Research Building, Room 143.

Register To Attend