Date/Time
Date(s) - 10/08/2026
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Categories
Summary: It is estimated that one in five Americans has taken a DNA test. However, the success of genetic genealogical analysis is greatly influenced by the tester’s ancestral population. While Americans with deep colonial roots often benefit from close genetic relatives and well-documented family branches, those with recent immigrant lines – particularly from Poland – face unique challenges, including fewer close matches and smaller, harder-to-analyse DNA segments. This talk will begin with a brief historical overview of Poland’s multiethnic history and its migration patterns. We will then explore advanced genetic genealogy methods specifically tailored to overcome these hurdles, offering practical strategies to help you break through brick walls and advance your Polish family research.
About our speaker: Eryk Jan Grzeszkowiak is a Polish forensic investigative genetic genealogist based in Scotland and one of the first accredited investigative genetic genealogists. He brings over a decade of experience in genetic genealogy and more than two decades in traditional genealogy. With a formal background in quantitative human genetics, he has lectured in genetics and genetic genealogy at four universities across Europe and is a frequent speaker at conferences in both Europe and America.
Eryk has designed multiple genetic genealogy exams, including the entrance exam for the DNA Doe Project’s highly competitive practicum program; he also served as the Exam Director at the Investigative Genetic Genealogy Accreditation Board in the US. At the DNA Doe Project, he is a Team Leader and co-leads the education department as a Research and Curriculum Development Specialist – conducting research and training the next generation of forensic investigative genetic genealogists.
In addition to his forensic, scientific and educational roles, Eryk has extensive experience in the non-profit sector, having worked with five non-profit organizations and served on the boards of two. His leadership and service reflect a longstanding commitment to advancing public benefit through education, research, and community engagement.
Eryk Jan Grzeszkowiak