#414 How To Find Genetics Professionals Worldwide: The Global Genetics Directory

When patients relocate or relatives living abroad need cascade testing, finding a qualified genetics professional in another country can be surprisingly difficult. The new Global Genetics Directory aims to change that through a free, verified, peer-to-peer resource connecting genetics and genomics professionals worldwide.

In this episode of DNA Today, recorded in person at our studio, host Kira Dineen is joined by genetic counselor Monisha Sebastin, Founder and Principal Investigator of the Global Genetics Directory. Monisha explains how her international background and leadership within the genetics community revealed the need for a centralized global resource.

We explore how the directory was developed with support from the prestigious Audrey Heimler Special Projects Award, how professionals are verified across different credentialing systems, and why the team chose a closed, consent-based model rather than a publicly searchable directory. Monisha also shares how the directory could strengthen cross-border patient care, cascade testing, professional collaboration, and access to genetics services around the world.

Episode Discussion Topics

Why finding genetics professionals in other countries can be challenging

How Monisha’s experiences in India and the United States shaped her perspective on global access

When international connections are especially important for patient care and cascade testing

What genetics professionals around the world said they needed from a global directory

How NSGC’s Audrey Heimler Special Projects Award supported the project

How registration, credential verification, and directory searches work

Why eligibility is limited to credentialed genetics and genomics professionals

How the directory accommodates differences in professional titles, credentials, and scopes of practice