About UGI
Our research is both fundamental and applied, and we believe there need not be a divide between the two. Important science is by definition fundamental, and is also likely to have, and be inspired by, its applications.
We develop computational tools and apply them to large genetic datasets to address questions ranging from the origin and evolution of anatomically modern humans, the genetic determinants of various human diseases, improvement of crop varieties to antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
Our Department
UCL Genetics Institute (UGI) is a multi-faculty Centre dedicated to the analysis of Big Genetic Data. We are part of the Research Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment (GEE).
Our Research Groups
Learn more about our research labs and what we've been working on recently
UGI labs and groupsResearch Themes
Microbial Genomics
Explore our key research themes and learn how we're advancing knowledge, shaping policy and making a real world impact
Human Population Genetics
Explore our key research themes and learn how we're advancing knowledge, shaping policy and making a real world impact
Ancient DNA
Explore our key research themes and learn how we're advancing knowledge, shaping policy and making a real world impact
Human Disease
Explore our key research themes and learn how we're advancing knowledge, shaping policy and making a real world impact
Plants and Crops
Explore our key research themes and learn how we're advancing knowledge, shaping policy and making a real world impact
Computational Methods
Links to downloadable software and datasets developed and maintained by the UCL Genetics Institute.
Study with us
PhD
Our students come from all around the world to join our department. Their ground-breaking research covers a wide range of topics within the fields of Genetics, Evolution, and Environment.
Undergraduate
UGI staff teach on various undergraduate programs, including the Genetics pathway that is available for BSc and MSci degrees in Biological Sciences.
News
First ancient human herpesvirus genomes document their deep history with humans
Analysis of ancient DNA has confirmed that certain human herpesviruses became part of the human genome thousands of years ago, in a study involving a UCL researcher.
08 Jan 2026
How micronutrient shortages changed human DNA
Tiny elements in the human diet, such as micronutrients, may have influenced human evolution in ways greater than previously recognised, according to a new study led by UCL researchers.
08 Sep 2025
Celebrating the Legacy of Lionel Penrose
On Friday 18 July, the Division of Biosciences hosted a special event to honour the legacy of Professor Lionel Penrose (UCL Galton Professor, 1945–1965). A medically trained scientist and pioneer of clinical genetics, Penrose was also a vocal critic of eugenics.
01 Aug 2025