Cultural Congruence in International Genetics Research

This study will explore how cultural differences influence genetics research in developing countries. Human genetics research is becoming more common in developing countries. However, when research is conducted with people living in developing countries, there is a chance that culture differences can lead to misunderstandings between investigators and participants, resulting in ineffective research. This study will explore challenges facing investigators conducting genetics research in developing countries and opportunities to improve this kind of research. Scientists who have conducted genetics research in a developing country may be eligible to participate in this study. Participants are interviewed by telephone. The interview, which lasts about an hour, includes questions about the researchers decision to conduct the study they have done, the times they noticed that culture played a role in the research and the times that were more challenging and less challenging. The interviews are recorded, transcribed and analyzed for themes related to cultural congruence and specific challenges and opportunities with regard to cultural congruence.