Privacy Policy

Introduction

Jewish Genetic Discovery Foundation (“JGDF”) is committed to transparency while maintaining robust privacy protections for all participant data. We use the data we collect for historical and population research purposes only.

  1. What We Collect
    JGDF is collecting results from kit providers of mitochondrial, autosomal, and Y-DNA sequences at FamilyTreeDNA.  The data we use is related to historical and population genetics only.  JGDF will not collect or use personal genetic data that can identify individuals and will not use health data at all.  JGDF personnel will be able to view only the data made available to project administrators.
  2. Ownership of Data
    When a participant orders a kit through JGDF, the participant maintains full ownership of the kit. By allowing JGDF to purchase the kit, the participant agrees to join the JGDF project on FamilyTreeDNA and allows JGDF personnel direct access to all genetic results information.
    If JGDF orders an upgrade for an existing kit, the kit owner must first join the JGDF project but will still maintain ownership of the kit.
  3. How We Collect
    If a kit is ordered by JGDF, participants will receive FamilyTreeDNA cheek swab tests for sample collection. The samples will then be sent back to the FamilyTreeDNA lab in Houston, Texas, where they will be stored and processed. Participants will also join JGDF’s project at FamilyTreeDNA, which is administered solely by JGDF personnel.
    If a kit is upgraded and a new sample is required, the new cheek swab will be sent by FamilyTreeDNA.
  4. Who Can See the Data
    General results data such as haplogroup and country of origin can be seen on the FamilyTreeDNA’s Discover site. However, all other information, including tester’s name and other personal information can only be seen by JGDF personnel, unless the tester chooses otherwise. JGDF will never share specific tester information and will never sell or give out your personal data to outside parties!
    Information such as surnames and genealogically or historically significant data may be used in JGDF reports and presentations but only with tester permission. Individuals’ names will not be used.
  5. Raw Data
    Participants, and not JGDF, own their raw data. Therefore, participant privacy will always be our priority. Participants grant permission for JGDF personnel to access raw data as provided by FamilyTreeDNA, including (if eligible), but not limited to Y-DNA and mitochondrial DNA haplogroups and haplotypes, BAM and VCF files, STR results, and any participant-provided genealogical information. Participants also allow for JGDF to include their anonymous raw data in scientifically-beneficial genetic studies involving JGDF. If permission is granted, JGDF may use tools outside of FamilyTreeDNA to assist in the analysis and interpretation of the data. Participant privacy will remain our priority at all times, and we will never sell the raw data or share it with commercial third parties.
    Should a participant revoke permission and no longer wishes to be a part of JGDF studies, JGDF will destroy all participant raw data in our possession at the participant’s explicit request.
  6. What We Do With The Data
    JGDF will not use any personal data, which includes testers’ names, birth dates, or any health information. The data that we will use will be information available from the Time Tree on FamilyTreeDNA or through the JGDF project. This data will include haplogroup formations and earliest ancestral locations as well as what FamilyTreeDNA provides in the Discover Tab. Using this information, JGDF will provide the tester a write up of what we have learned from the results. This will also include, should the tester wish, follow up whenever we learn more information relevant to the tester.
  7. How Will You See the Data
    Testers will be able to see their own data at any time and have absolute control and ownership over that data. Additionally, testers should join the JGDF project on FamilyTreeDNA. While limited tester information is available to other project members, testers can opt out of public sharing through their account settings on their FamilyTreeDNA profile.
  8. Incorporation of FamilyTreeDNA Group Administrator Policy
    JGDF incorporates and complies with all group administrator terms and policies set forth by FamilyTreeDNA. These terms may be found at: Group Project Administrator Terms & Policies.
Get Involved

The Jewish Genetic Discovery Foundation is dedicated to studying the genetic history of Jewish populations worldwide, preserving heritage, and advancing our understanding of human migration patterns.