Sorenson foundation

The Sorenson Molecular Genealogy Foundation (SMGF) is a DNA and genealogical research institution with the goal of demonstrating how the peoples of the world are related. SMGF collects DNA samples and genealogical information from individuals across the globe to establish these connections.

History
In 1999, James LeVoy Sorenson met with Dr. Scott Woodward to explain his vision. Sorenson envisioned promoting peace, compassion, and brotherhood among mankind by developing a genetic map of the peoples of the world that shows how closely we are all related. Through this effort, he wished to demonstrate the close family relationships shared by the entire human family. Under the direction of Woodward, the Molecular Genealogy Research Project began in 2000 by collecting samples from Brigham Young University students.

Over the years, the Molecular Genealogy Research Project expanded outside of the realm of BYU’s research capabilities and moved the headquarters to Salt Lake City, Utah and became SMGF. Today, SMGF has collected tens of thousands of DNA samples and pedigree charts.

Sorenson Database
During the conversations with Sorenson, Woodward suggested the best way to turn the vision of connecting the world into reality was to create a large and comprehensive database containing correlated genealogical and genetic information of individuals representing each population from the world. The database, called the Sorenson Database, was established and published at smgf.org.

The Sorenson Database compares DNA results and/or surnames with the person querying the database to find genetic and genealogical matches. In July 2007, over 75,000 individuals had participated in the Sorenson Database from more than 100 countries worldwide. The Sorenson Database is known for the depth of genealogical information provided. The average pedigree chart contains 6 generations of pedigree information with over 4.5 million ancestors linked to DNA samples.

Currently, the Sorenson Database has two areas for individuals to search, a Y chromosome database and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) database. SMGF plans to add other parts to the Sorenson Database which search the X chromosome and autosomal line of a pedigree chart.

Participation
SMGF has the goal of collecting samples from over 500,000 individuals. Individuals interested in participating need to provide a signed consent form, four generation pedigree chart, and a DNA sample. Free kits can requested at smgf.org.