Professor Turi King Awarded the Julian Bickersteth Memorial Medal
We are delighted to announce that Professor Turi King has been awarded the Julian Bickersteth Memorial Medal for her outstanding contributions to family history and genetic genealogy.
Professor King, Director of the Milner Centre for Evolution at the University of Bath, is a leading UK forensic geneticist and has worked in the field of genetic genealogy for over 25 years. She gained international recognition for leading the DNA analysis that confirmed the identity of King Richard III’s remains as well as co-presenting DNA Family Secrets on the BBC. Her pioneering research has significantly advanced genetic genealogy, archaeogenetics, and forensic genetics.
The Julian Bickersteth Memorial Medal recognises significant and sustained contributions to family history. Professor King’s influential work, including her PhD research on Y-chromosomes and British surnames, has been instrumental in bridging genetics and traditional genealogy.
The medal will be presented at the IHGS Awards Day in July 2026.
Professor Turi King said: “I am honoured to receive this award. Family history and genetic genealogy have always been central to my work, and I’m thrilled that science continues to enrich our understanding of British heritage and ancestry.”
A fantastic and well-deserved honour!
