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Karen Cummings BPharm PhD DipGen PGCert QG

Summary

I am the author of 'Genealogy Methods and Techniques - A Practical Guide to Research', published in 2026.

I am a qualified and accredited professional genealogist and tutor, with many years of family history research experience. I am the owner of Pharos Tutors, provider of online family history and local history courses. I am a long-standing Member of AGRA and have served on both the Council and the Board of Assessors. Formerly a registered pharmacist, I bring a scientific background to my specialist areas of genealogical research methodology and the use of DNA testing in family history.

Research Services

Research services include family trees, bespoke family history research, research in local archives and problem solving. Family tree packages cover all of England and Wales. For local archive work I specialise in Cambridgeshire, Suffolk and Essex.

DNA testing is becoming an increasing popular tool for the genealogist but the results can be confusing. I offer assistance with both the interpretation of results and investigation or research hurdles.

Qualifications & Accreditations

I have qualifications in both genealogy and teaching, reflect my work at high standards in everything I do. I hold the Diploma in Genealogy (DipGen) from the Institute of Heraldic and Genealogical Studies (IHGS) and a Postgraduate Certificate (PG Cert) in Educational Practice from the University of Essex.

Before embarking on a career in genealogy I worked in the pharmaceutical industry as a qualified Pharmacist and has a PhD in scientific research.

I am a full AGRA Member and served on both AGRA Council (2014-2016) and the AGRA Board of Assessors (2014-2016 and 2020-2024). I am also a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists (APG) and is listed on the Register of Qualified Genealogists (RQG).

Please visit my websites for more information:
www.professionalfamilyhistory.co.uk
www.pharostutors.com

Contact Karen Cummings

Email: info@professionalfamilyhistory.co.uk

Thank you, your enquiry has been sent

17a Cleves Road
Haverhill
Suffolk
CB9 9PL

When I first started to look at who could help me research my family tree, it quickly became apparent that there were lots of companies out there on the internet who could offer what is basically an ‘off the shelf report’ for what appears to be relatively low cost and probably little reward at the end of the day. I was looking for something more, a professional well qualified researcher who could produce a bespoke piece of work and Karen has certainly met my expectations. The document Karen produced for my family is well written, presented and clearly researched. I have no hesitation in recommending Karen if you want a family tree you can hand down to your own family and keep for future generations as I did.

Sid, Shropshire

After 45 years of genealogical research in North America, I have learned the importance of careful examination of the original evidence. Dr. Karen Cummings' assistance has been of the highest professional standards. Her knowledge of English records and their location assures me that within the scope of what she has done for me all possible records have been found. Her citations are a model for the rest of us to follow.

James, Berkeley, California

Karen, this is my third Pharos course with you as instructor. I think you have a wonderful ability to explain concepts & to make chats informative, personable and fun! I think teaching online (with no face-to-face interaction) is most difficult, and you have real gift for making this kind of educational experience enjoyable and valuable.

Pharos Student, Demystifying DNA