Darwin's Ark

Darwin's Ark is a non-profit citizen science organization that leverages large-scale genomic data to study canine health, behavior, and evolution. By collecting DNA samples and owner-reported data from thousands of pet dogs, the organization identifies genetic variants associated with complex traits and diseases, including cancer and aging. The project operates as a collaborative effort between the Broad Institute and UMass Chan Medical School, aiming to bridge the gap between veterinary and human medicine through comparative genomics. Their open-data approach allows researchers worldwide to access high-quality datasets to accelerate discoveries in precision medicine. Through community engagement, Darwin's Ark empowers pet owners to contribute directly to scientific breakthroughs that benefit both dogs and humans.