Carefully structured to introduce the subject to a diverse readership, this book follows a logical progression:

• Introduces molecular genetics and genomics
• Examines human evolutionary origins
• Describes dispersal of human populations
• Applies human genetic data to aspects of contemporary populations including forensics, genealogy and medicine

Extensively supported by thirty ‘Opinion Boxes’ written by guest contributors, such as David Goldstein and Hank Greely, outlining their views on issues in the field. These boxes demonstrate to the student that scientific research is an ongoing process, and that theories are constantly being questioned and thereby evolving.

In addition to the ‘Opinion Boxes’, there are boxes giving background theory, describing methodologies, and others which highlight specific genetic loci.

Recognising that students and researchers come from different disciplines the authors explain specialist terms where they are first used, and then collate them in an extensive glossary.

Given the dynamic nature of the subject, numerous web links are included at the end of each chapter. These links also encourage readers to explore topics in greater depth.

To ensure that the reader has fully grasped the essential facts, each chapter concludes with a summary of the key points.