Use of Population Descriptors in Human Genetic Research

Study Summary

This study will explore scientists opinions and practices regarding the use of population descriptors (e.g., race, ethnicity, ancestry, geography and nationality) to describe a research study population. It will collect genetic researchers opinions, understandings and experiences studying human genetics and genetic variation. Scientists who are a principal investigator or co-principal investigator n a human genetic or genomic study of a common disease with at least preliminary data that uses population descriptors may be eligible for the study. Participants are asked to think about their study populations and how they are described in their research. They participate in two audio-taped semi-structured interviews that last from about 90 to 120 minutes. They may also participate in one or both of the following optional study components: * A third semi-structured interview that explores implementing a new method of describing study populations in data analysis. * 2 to 3 days of lab observation, in which a member of the study research team meets the lab members, observes daily activities and attends lab meetings.