Currently accepting clients for...

• DNA
• Family History Research
• Speaking / Presenting

I specialize in using DNA to break through brick walls and extend family trees with particular focus on Irish research. Whether you are just starting your family research, or you need help with complex DNA analysis, I will apply a methodical, results-oriented approach to deliver comprehensive genealogical insights tailored to your needs.

With a PhD in Chemistry and over 25 years of experience as a research chemist, I bring a unique and scientific approach to genealogical research. My analytical background allows me to apply evidence-based techniques in genealogy, ensuring that each project I undertake is thorough, accurate, and well-supported by data.
 
I actively contribute to the genealogy community as a moderator for both the DNA Painter and Genetic Affairs Facebook user groups. This role keeps me at the forefront of new technologies and techniques in the field, while allowing me to assist others in unraveling their own family histories.
 
Reach out to me if you have a research question or project you would like to discuss.
 

Geographic Specialities
Ireland

Testimonials
By the time I contacted Patricia, I had been hammering away at my brick wall (Who were my great grandmother's parents?) for 57 years. I had taken the Ancestry DNA test nine years before, and after a couple of years was able to find a DNA connection to an ancestor of hers several generations back. I gradually went through all the possibilities of each generation after them until eventually I got a woman in mind who I felt had a strong chance of being her mother. I could never prove it, but I put her in the tree as a possibility. 

I decided to make the investment and engage a genetic genealogist. Patricia came highly recommended, and I felt confident that she was going to find some answers for me. When her lengthy report arrived, I resisted the urge to read the last page first! Anticipation built as I slowly went through the report page by page, trying to absorb even the technical details that make my brain overheat (which is why I knew I needed a professional). I'm quite a good genealogist, but a genetic genealogist I will never be.

 It was a splurge for me, but I knew I would not be able to lay the problem to rest without doing this. Whatever the conclusion was, I would have peace of mind. I now know who my great grandmother’s father was, something that could only be learned from a professional study of DNA matches utilizing technology way above my pay grade.
 
Jeani



 

Additional specialities or search keywords
Segment Triangulation, DNA Painter, Genetic Affairs, Irish research

Publications/Media
“Locating Thomas Byrnes’ Home in County Roscommon with DNA Matches in the Absence of Historical Records” The Septs, Volume 45, Number 2, April 2024.
"Thomas Barry in Kilkenny, Ireland and Evans, New York" The Septs, Volume 44, Number. 2, April 2023.

Lectures
Sorting Your Ancestry DNA Matches, Getting Started with DNA Painter, Exploring DNA Segments for Breakthrough Discoveries, Getting Started with DNA Painter, Organizing and Mapping Your DNA Matches with DNA Painter, How DNA Clusters Can Help Your Genealogical Research, Using Clusters, Paintings and Trees to Find Your Common Ancestors, Putting All the Pieces Together: DNA and Irish Online Resources, In Search of Irish Cousins: DNA Matches, Clusters, and Family Trees, Using DNA to Locate Thomas Byrnes in County Roscommon

Research Time Periods

• 20th Century
• 19th Century

Languages
English

Certificates
ProGen58, GRIP Irish Genealogical Research Part II and GRIP Irish Genealogical Research Part III

Affiliations
International Genealogical Society of Ireland, Minnesota Genealogical Society, Utah Genealogical Society, Moderator for Facebook DNA Painter User Group and for Facebook Genetic Affairs User Group.

Degrees
PhD in Chemistry from University of California, Davis, California