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Matt Zbrog
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Forensic Genealogist Career – Education, Certifications & Salary
“Forensic investigative genetic genealogy (FIGG) is having an incredible impact in resolving both cold cases and also recent and active violent crime cases. Not only does this help bring justice to these cases and the victims, but it also greatly increases public safety by apprehending violent perpetrators of crime, preventing them from committing further violent crimes.”Claire Glynn, PhD, Professor and Research Coordinator, Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Sciences, University of New Haven
Forensic genealogy is an evolving discipline that uses genealogical research methods in legal contexts, including inheritance disputes, adoption cases, and identifying unknown individuals. Within this broader field, a specialized branch known as Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG) has emerged as a powerful tool for solving criminal cases.
FIGG combines traditional genealogy techniques with advanced DNA analysis to help law enforcement identify suspects or victims in unresolved cases and provide investigative leads in violent crimes cases like homicides and sexual assaults. The value of this approach was demonstrated in 2018 when FIGG played a key role in identifying the Golden State Killer, a notorious case that had gone unsolved for decades.
The use of FIGG in law enforcement has already revolutionized the field of criminal investigation, and it’s still early days. A major aspect of FIGG’s success lies in the use of public genetic databases, such as GEDmatch and FamilyTreeDNA, which allow individuals to upload their DNA data for genealogical comparison—and as databases like these grow, so does the potential of the forensic genealogist role.
To learn more about this field and how to get started as a forensic genealogist working in FIGG, read on.
Ask the Expert: Claire L. Glynn, PhD
Dr. Claire Glynn is a professor and research coordinator in the forensic science department of the Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Sciences at the University of New Haven. She is also the founding Director of the University of New Haven’s online graduate certificate in forensic investigative genetic genealogy, and she actively consults and provides subject matter expertise on the topic to law enforcement agencies, both nationally and internationally.
Dr. Glynn, who joined the University of New Haven in 2014, teaches both undergraduate and graduate courses in forensic science, focused on forensic biology, forensic DNA analysis, and Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG). Her research interests are focused on FIGG and the broad range of applications for this novel investigatory tool.
Dr. Glynn was awarded the University of New Haven’s Faculty Excellence in Research and Creative Activity in 2017. She also was designated a University Research Scholar for 2017-2020. Lastly, Dr. Glynn was named one of Connecticut’s “40 under 40” for the Class of 2022 by Connecticut Magazine.
ForensicsColleges.com: What do you wish the public understood about forensic genealogy?
Dr. Glynn: First, forensic investigative genetic genealogy (FIGG) is having an incredible impact in resolving both cold cases and also recent and active violent crime cases. Not only does this help bring justice to these cases and the victims, but it also greatly increases public safety by apprehending violent perpetrators of crime, preventing them from committing further violent crimes.
Second, FIGG relies upon general members of the public to volunteer their DNA to the two genetic genealogy databases we are allowed to use, which are GEDmatch and FamilyTreeDNA. The more members of the public who volunteer or upload their DNA to these two databases, the more powerful FIGG can be to help solve cases.
Anyone who has previously taken an AncestryDNA test or a 23andMe test can download a copy of their data from their accounts and then upload it for free to both GEDmatch and FamilyTreeDNA. They can also choose to opt in or opt out of being included in comparisons to FIGG cases.
ForensicsColleges.com: Do you have any advice for those who might be considering a career in forensic genealogy?
Dr. Glynn: For anyone considering a career in FIGG, it is really important to gain training and education in this specialized area. FIGG utilizes advanced genetic methods, DNA data interpretation, and comprehensive genealogical research methods. Therefore, having a thorough understanding and high skill level in those is crucial. The FIGG field also rapidly evolves, so keeping up-to-date with advances, new tools, technologies, policies, and laws is essential.
For anyone who has never explored any part of genetic genealogy, I recommend they take their own consumer DNA test first, e.g., AncestryDNA, download their data, and upload it to GEDmatch. They can begin exploring their own results and their genetic genealogy matches, and start building out their own family trees by sourcing genealogical records for their ancestors. This will help them gain basic skills before pursuing advanced training and education.
ForensicsColleges.com: What does the future of forensic genealogy look like to you?
Dr. Glynn: The FIGG field is incredibly exciting to be a part of, and it has advanced and evolved so much in just the last six years. The future will bring significant advances in the methods and technologies used, but it will also continue to grow in implementation in law enforcement agencies across the United States and internationally.
FIGG will not replace traditional forensic DNA analysis; instead, it will continue to enhance investigations by being an additional tool that can be combined with traditional methods to further assist in resolving complex criminal investigations.
Career Outlook
Due to the relatively recent development of forensic genetic genealogy, official data about this specific career path is limited. But the need for forensic science technicians, a broad group which may include forensic genealogists, is projected to grow 14 percent between 2023 and 2033—a rate much faster than the national average (BLS 2024).
Further evidence of a positive career outlook can be inferred from the continued growth of DNA databases and genealogy services. Consumer databases like 23andMe and AncestryDNA have both seen substantial growth since the early 2010s, and the total number of people who have taken a direct-to-consumer DNA test surpassed 30 million globally in 2022.
Forensic Genealogist Salary
Salary data for forensic genealogists working in FIGG is relatively limited, as this is still an emerging career. However, salaries for forensic genealogists can be estimated based on data for related professions.
According to the BLS, forensic science technicians have a median annual wage of approximately $64,940 (BLS 2024). Professionals working in specialized roles like forensic genetic genealogy might earn more depending on their expertise and the specific duties involved.
Since the career path of a forensic genealogist can vary from working for government agencies, private companies, or freelance consulting, compensation is often highly individualized. Additionally, those with advanced degrees and a background in genetic genealogy or forensic sciences typically command higher salaries.
Step-by-Step: How to Become a Forensic Genealogist
Step 1: Earn a High School Diploma or GED (Four Years)
The first step to becoming a forensic genealogist is to earn a high school diploma. It’s best to focus on courses in biology, chemistry, history, and mathematics, as these provide a foundational knowledge for future studies in genetics and genealogical research. Furthermore, developing strong skills in writing, analytical thinking, and research will be essential for documenting and analyzing family histories and genetic data.
Step 2: Earn an Undergraduate Degree (Four Years)
After earning their high school diploma, an aspiring forensic genealogist will need to earn an undergraduate degree in a related field. While no specific field is required for a career in forensic genealogy, a major in biology, genetics, history, anthropology, or forensic science can help provide the knowledge base needed. Courses in genetics and genealogical research will be especially useful, as they cover the necessary background in DNA analysis and historical records.
Step 3: Gain Entry-Level Experience (Timeline Varies)
After earning their undergraduate degree, an aspiring forensic genealogist should focus on gaining entry-level experience in genealogical research. This can be done by taking individual courses, attending workshops, seeking internships, or gaining entry-level employment. Early work experience can help a forensic genealogist decide where to specialize their knowledge and focus their career.
Step 4: Pursue Advanced Education (Timeline Varies)
After they’ve gained some entry-level experience, a forensic genealogist can specialize their knowledge and focus their career by pursuing advanced education in their area of interest. This step will be highly personalized, and could include anything from a master’s program in forensic science, to a doctoral program in genetics, or a targeted certificate program in forensic genetic genealogy.
Forensic Genealogist Tasks and Responsibilities
A forensic genealogist’s tasks and responsibilities will vary based on their employer, experience, and specialty. However, they typically involve a mix of genealogical research and forensic science to support legal cases, law enforcement, and investigations involving unknown identities. Key tasks and responsibilities may include:
- Genealogical research: Forensic genealogists conduct in-depth research to build family trees using historical records, such as birth, marriage, death certificates, and census records. They identify potential relatives of unknown individuals through these records and traditional genealogy techniques.
- DNA analysis and interpretation: They work closely with DNA data, comparing genetic information to public or private genetic databases. The goal is to find matches that may identify an unknown individual or establish familial relationships. This aspect involves interpreting results from consumer genetic testing companies like GEDmatch, 23andMe, or AncestryDNA.
- Investigative work: Forensic genealogists specializing in FIGG will work on criminal cases, missing persons, and identifying unidentified remains. They collaborate with law enforcement to use DNA matches as leads in cases involving violent crimes, cold cases, or unidentified decedents. This may require extensive verification to ensure the accuracy of their findings.
- Documenting and reporting: Thorough documentation is crucial. Forensic genealogists prepare detailed reports outlining their research process, evidence, and conclusions. They may also be called upon to testify as expert witnesses in court, providing insights into the genealogical process and findings.
- Privacy and ethics compliance: Forensic genealogists are responsible for ensuring compliance with privacy laws and ethical standards. They must be aware of data privacy issues, including obtaining informed consent from people whose data is being used, and must navigate the ethical considerations of using DNA databases in legal investigations.
Licensure and Certification for Forensic Genealogists
Currently, there are no government-mandated licensure requirements for forensic genealogists, including those specializing in Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG). However, there are several certifications and training programs that can enhance credibility and provide specialized knowledge for forensic genealogists.
- Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG): The BCG offers certification as a Certified Genealogist (CG) and as a Certified Genetic Genealogist (CGG). Although these are not specifically for forensic genealogy, they can demonstrate a professional level of expertise in genealogical research.
- Council for the Advancement of Forensic Genealogy (CAFG): CAFG offers a credential called the ForensicGenealogistCredentialedSM credential (which is abbreviated as FGCSM). Membership in good standing in CAFG as an Advanced member is a requirement for application.which is aimed at individuals working on legal cases and includes specific training in the forensic aspects of genealogy.
Matt Zbrog is a writer and researcher from Southern California. Since 2018, he’s written extensively about the increasing digitization of investigations, the growing importance of forensic science, and emerging areas of investigative practice like open source intelligence (OSINT) and blockchain forensics. His writing and research are focused on learning from those who know the subject best, including leaders and subject matter specialists from the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) and the American Academy of Forensic Science (AAFS). As part of the Big Employers in Forensics series, Matt has conducted detailed interviews with forensic experts at the ATF, DEA, FBI, and NCIS.