Chamorro DNA research resources online

The Northern Marianas Humanities Council wishes to advise the public that additional resources related to the recent presentation by visiting molecular anthropologist Dr. Miguel Vilar are now available on its website (www.northernmarianashumanities.org).

Last month, Dr. Vilar provided an overview of the findings of his DNA research that explores the genetic history and distinctiveness of the Chamorro people. A sizable crowd numbering over 120 attended this event.

For those wishing to view these additional resources, please go to the council’s webpage and click on “Chamorro DNA Research” in the Featured Programs and Events box.

Here you can access the PowerPoint slides from Dr. Vilar’s presentation, a copy of a journal article on this subject, and Dr. Vilar’s recent interview on the Council’s “Your Humanities Half-Hour” radio program.

Dr. Vilar, who directs the National Geographic’s “Genographic Project,” is currently exploring the feasibility of undertaking a second phase of research in the CNMI to expand his sample size.