IHGS Welcomes Three New Tutors to Its Tutorial Team
The Institute of Heraldic and Genealogical Studies has expanded its expert tutors with the addition of three new tutors, strengthening its course support across genetic genealogy and heraldry.
Dr. Andrea Degl’Innocenti joins IHGS as DNA Lead and Tutor, bringing specialist expertise in molecular biology, genomics, and scientific education. Chris Huning and John Norris join as the Heraldry Course Tutor team adding further depth to the Institute’s expert tutors.
We welcome them all to the IHGS team.
Dr. Andrea Degl’Innocenti, DNA Lead and Tutor
Dr. Andrea Degl’Innocenti brings a strong scientific background to the Institute’s growing work in genetic genealogy. A molecular biologist and genomics specialist, he is also the founder and principal investigator of Istituto Vinciano per le Scienze, The Vinci Institute of Sciences, in Vinci, Italy.
He graduated cum laude in molecular biology at the University of Pisa and completed his PhD at the Max Planck Institute for Brain Research. His research and teaching career has included roles in Italy and across Europe, with teaching experience in molecular biology, medical genetics, and environmental sciences.
His appointment as DNA Lead and Tutor adds a significant strand of scientific expertise to IHGS course provision at a time when DNA evidence is playing an increasingly important role in genealogical research.
Chris Huning, Course Tutor
Chris Huning joins IHGS with lifelong interests in history and heraldry, supported by a BA in History from San Jose State University and professional experience from a technology career in project and product management.
After completing the IHGS Heraldry Course, Chris passed the Heraldry Society Elementary and Intermediate examinations and is now studying for the Heraldry Diploma. As a tutor, he will help students build a sound understanding of heraldic principles, practice, and interpretation.
His mix of historical study, structured heraldic training, and professional communication experience gives students another knowledgeable guide through the discipline.
John Norris, Course Tutor
John Norris has been interested in heraldry since his teens. After a career as a Chartered Insurer and manager with a large commercial insurer, he deepened his study of the subject through the IHGS Heraldry Course, later passing the Heraldry Society Elementary and Intermediate examinations. He is currently studying for his Heraldry Society Diploma.
John is a member of the Heraldry Society and the City of Bath Heraldic Society. His professional background also included training colleagues, an experience he now brings to his role supporting students on the Heraldry Course.
He joins IHGS with a clear enthusiasm for helping students get the most out of their course experience and develop confidence in heraldic study.
