Celebrating achievement at IHGS Awards Day
We were delighted to welcome so many students, tutors, volunteers and friends to our annual Awards Day at IHGS. It was a wonderful occasion to recognise and celebrate the dedication, hard work and achievements of our students and tutors and to present Professor Turi King with the Bickersteth Memorial Medal.
Professor Turi King has been awarded the Julian Bickersteth Memorial Medal for her outstanding contributions to family history and genetic genealogy.
The medal recipient
Professor Turi King
Professor King, Director of the Milner Centre for Evolution at the University of Bath, is a leading UK forensic geneticist and has worked in the field of genetic genealogy for over 25 years.
She gained international recognition for leading the DNA analysis that confirmed the identity of King Richard III’s remains, as well as co-presenting DNA Family Secrets on the BBC. Her pioneering research has significantly advanced genetic genealogy, archaeogenetics and forensic genetics.
Recognising a significant contribution to family history
The Julian Bickersteth Memorial Medal recognises significant and sustained contributions to family history. Professor King’s influential work, including her PhD research on Y-chromosomes and British surnames, has been instrumental in bridging genetics and traditional genealogy.
“I am honoured to receive this award. Family history and genetic genealogy have always been central to my work, and I’m thrilled that science continues to enrich our understanding of British heritage and ancestry.”
Professor Turi King
A fantastic and well-deserved honour!
Professor King’s work in action
Professor Turi King, Richard III’s remains and the Hitler conspiracy
Many readers first encounter Professor Turi King through her DNA work confirming the identity of King Richard III’s remains or through research into the Adolf Hitler escape conspiracy theory. To explore these historical mysteries, read our article DNA Evidence Puts to Rest a Centuries-Old Royal Mystery and the Adolf Hitler Escape Conspiracy.
Frequently asked questions about Professor Turi King
Who is Professor Turi King?
Professor Turi King is a UK forensic geneticist and the Director of the Milner Centre for Evolution at the University of Bath. She has worked in genetic genealogy for more than 25 years.
What was Professor Turi King’s role in identifying King Richard III’s remains?
Professor King led the DNA analysis that helped confirm the identity of the remains discovered beneath a Leicester car park as those of King Richard III.
What is the Adolf Hitler escape conspiracy theory?
The theory claims that Adolf Hitler escaped Berlin at the end of the Second World War. The related IHGS article examines the DNA evidence used to assess that claim.
Learn from the experts
Learn the methods experts use and build a career in genealogy
Professor King’s work shows how DNA, historical records, archaeology and careful analysis can come together to answer difficult questions. Learn the same evidence-led methods used by expert genealogists, develop your own expertise, and take the next step towards building a career in genealogy through IHGS courses.
A memorable Awards Day
IHGS was proud to celebrate Professor King’s achievement alongside the students, tutors, volunteers and friends who make the Institute such a special community. The award reflects the importance of bringing together documentary research, science and careful interpretation to deepen our understanding of family history.