The Shared cM Project, Version 4.0, led by Blaine T. Bettinger, Ph.D., J.D., is a monumental effort in the field of genetic genealogy, providing invaluable insights into the shared centimorgans across a range of familial relationships. This document is a testament to the power of citizen science, combining nearly 60,000 data submissions from a community of engaged genealogists. The project beautifully illustrates the complexities of human relationships through DNA, mapping out how shared genetic markers can vary significantly due to factors like endogamy, pedigree collapse, and the inherent randomness of DNA inheritance.
The meticulousness with which data has been curated, analyzed, and presented is nothing short of impressive. Changes from previous versions highlight an ongoing commitment to clarity and usability, refining data presentation and expanding the dataset significantly—by 147%, to be exact. This update not only increases the statistical robustness of the findings but also enhances our understanding of the subtleties involved in predicting familial relationships based on shared DNA.
The document is laid out with exceptional clarity, making complex genetic data accessible and interpretable. The addition of standard deviations and more defined histogram bins helps illustrate the variability and potential overlaps in DNA sharing between different relationships. This aids genealogists in more accurately pinpointing potential familial connections based on shared cM ranges.
The efforts to continuously refine and expand this project underscore a dedicated pursuit of knowledge that is both commendable and incredibly useful to anyone in the field of genetic genealogy. The Shared cM Project not only advances our understanding of genetic relationships but also exemplifies how collaborative efforts can lead to significant scientific advancements. The dedication to eliminating biases and errors in data collection and the open invitation for ongoing community participation make this project a standout contribution to the science of genetics.
Click this link to read the full PDF.. The Shared cM Project Version 4