The Strathclyde Institute for Genealogical Studies (SIGS) has been established in Scotland and is opening on Tuesday 9 May.
SIGS is based at the University of Strathclyde and builds on the university’s existing programme of genealogy courses and projects, which include tracing living descendants of the signatories of the 14th century Declaration of Arbroath.
It describes itself as “an initiative to promote world-leading genealogy education, events, and research”.
SIGS will create new courses and research opportunities that will run alongside the university’s existing postgraduate programme. By working with experts and organisations, the Institute will continue the university’s existing genetic genealogy research projects as well as start new ones.
They are hoping to grow their partnership network across the globe which would facilitate the sharing of ideas and help discover the best ways to build family trees and better understand results from DNA tests.
Tahitia McCabe, previously the Course Director for the Genealogical Studies Masters programme, has been appointed as Head of the new Institute.
Tahitia said: “This is an exciting time for genealogy at Strathclyde and the genealogical community. Our passion is to help people, whether they are experienced or new to the subject, to learn more, connect with each other and further their learning or research.
“We are already well respected internationally for our programmes, which gives the Institute a great start. Our aim is to create a vibrant space where genealogical learning and discourse can flourish – we are reaching out to anyone with an interest to join us on our journey.”
The university is already home to a well-established variety of learning opportunities in the subject of genealogy. These range from beginner level short courses and free online courses to a world-leading, online Masters degree and a PhD pathway in History with Genealogical Studies.
There is a showcase event taking place in order to launch the new facility on 9 May. It will share the Institute’s future plans and explain opportunities to get involved. You can find more information regarding registration on their website.