Sophie Kay D.Phil. (Oxon), FHEA

Your ancestors have amazing stories to tell.

I've always felt that the best stories are the ones which turn out to be true, and this is never more so than in our family history. Unlocking the secrets of our genealogy can be an exciting and challenging journey, and one which I'm ready to assist you with. Whether you have hit a "brick wall" obstacle which needs resolving, would like me to carry out some DNA-based work, or want to commission a more extended archival investigation into your family history, I can provide a range of options to help your family tree flourish.

Based in Berkshire, U.K., I offer services in genetic genealogy/DNA research, traditional family history (both digital and archival) and palaeography. A former cancer research scientist from the University of Oxford, I'm attuned to the demands of professional research and am also qualified in Latin translation and DNA extraction & analysis.

My special interests include genetic genealogy, death records, ancestral mapping and historical occupations, but I'm willing to consider commissions across a broad range of topics. Please get in touch using the form below if you would like to discuss your particular challenge or receive a no-obligation quotation.

When we're researching our ancestors, there's no such thing as a silly question: if you have a family history problem that's important to you, then I'd love to see what I can do to help.

Professional Appointments

Ancestry and Genealogy Expert, Time Team (both on- and off-camera)

Scientist-in-Residence, The Mixed Museum

Archival Research Services

I can provide archival research at a range of sites including:

- Royal Berkshire Archives (formerly the Berkshire Record Office)

- Bodleian Library & collegiate archives, University of Oxford.

- The National Archives at Kew, Surrey

- The London Archives (formerly LMA)

- Friends House (Quakers), London

- Society of Genealogists library

- British Library

Qualifications & Professional Fellowships

Developing and enhancing my knowledge and archival technique is very important to me, and my dedication to professional development was recognised with awards from Soroptimist International in 2019 and the AGRA John Burt Bursary in 2022.

Other qualifications & fellowships include:

D.Phil. University of Oxford (2015) - including professional, research-level training in DNA extraction and analysis;

M.Sc. University of Manchester (2008)

M.A. University of Oxford (2007)

Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (2018-present)

Panton Fellow, Open Knowledge Foundation (2012-2013)

Public Speaking & Teaching

I am an experienced, award-winning educator and international speaker and can offer engaging talks on a variety of topics, including research methods, research sources and DNA. I attained Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy in 2018 and am a former College Lecturer of the University of Oxford.

Away from my desk, I have the pleasure of being the 'Ancestry and Genealogy Expert' for popular archaeology show, Time Team, which allows me to explore some of the fascinating family history stories which intersect with the programme's archaeological digs.

As the Scientist-in-Residence for The Mixed Museum, I am also engaged in designing and delivering fun and informative teaching sessions in genetic genealogy. My collaboration with the Museum involves working with private groups and the general public, and as part of this I am also co-President of the Medical Division for the British Science Festival 2025, sharing genetic genealogy with an even wider audience.

If you wish to enquire about booking an online or in-person seminar, or would like to commission pre-recorded digital content for your organisation, please get in touch and I will be happy to discuss options and pricing.