Ancient DNA as a Window into Human History and Biology

»In this talk, I will discuss the revolution wrought by the creation, 15 years ago, of a new tool for studying the human past: ancient DNA sequencing. The invention of the microscope around 400 years ago made possible the discovery of the world of previously invisible microorganisms. In the same way, when we obtain DNA from past cultures today, we find surprise after surprise, often in tension with what we thought we knew, based on archaeology, linguistics, and history. I will explore how these new discoveries help us better appreciate our shared, and complicated, genetic past, and how they might be used to improve human health today.«

— David Reich