20 March 2025
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DNA testing has opened up a whole new world of possibilities for family historians, adding a powerful tool to our research toolkit. In this interview, we caught up with Donna Rutherford, experienced genealogist and DNA educator, to learn more about her journey into the world of DNA, her tips for making the most of your results, and how she’s using technology to advance genealogy research.
How did you first get into DNA?
I did my first DNA test in 2015 as I was really curious about this new ‘technology’ and started to teach myself about all things DNA.
What do you really enjoy about DNA?
It brings a new dimension to genealogy, a new source of evidence that is completely different to anything else we’ve had.
Can you recall a lightbulb moment?
Not really, it was quite a lot of learning to start with, but I made a big notebook and kept adding questions I wanted to find answers to. Slowly I realised I was answering the questions, not writing them anymore.
Donna will be speaking at this year's DNA Discoveries online event!
DNA Testing for Genealogy: Your Questions Answered
Date & Time: 26 March, 6:30 PM
Speaker: Donna Rutherford
Details: Join us for Donna Rutherford’s presentation which will explore common FAQs about DNA testing for genealogy, providing practical advice and clear explanations for beginners.
Tickets: Buy Individual Ticket - £12 | Buy Bundle
What’s your top tip you’d like to share for people using DNA for family history?
Spend your time on higher matches. Even though we have fewer of them, they are closer relatives and solving those matches will give high-confidence evidence for your known tree.
If you don’t know your tree, for example, if you have unknown parentage—such as adoption, foundling, NPE, or surprise results—then the high-confidence matches are going to help you solve your case.
Tell us about the DNA education activities you’re involved in
I speak at a lot of events, which I love, especially the in-person events. As well as that, I’m working towards freeing up some time to create more YouTube content. I’m very interested in streaming, which would allow people to join me live and ask questions in the chat. Watch this space! Making DNA complex topics easy to understand is something I’m very passionate about.
Tell us about any DNA projects or organisations that you’re involved with
I belong to the Society of Genealogists organisations both in the UK and New Zealand. As well as that, I like to work closely with chosen genetic genealogists to share ideas, discuss preferred methodologies, and generally stay abreast of any new tools and features that get rolled out.
In addition, I’m very involved in using AI (Artificial Intelligence) for genealogy (including presenting on this topic). I’m currently working on using AI for DNA research—looking at how this evolving technology can help us work smarter and faster with our genealogical and DNA research. Exciting times!
Find out more about Donna’s family history research and specialisms at www.donnarutherford.com
