Over the last 15 years, ancient DNA research has transformed archaeology, revolutionizing what we know about everything from Neanderthals to global migration. As methods advance and computing power increases, there's lots more to come. My latest for National Geographic:

How ancient DNA—from Neanderthals to the Black Plague—has transformed archaeology
From identifying new human species to unraveling the evolution of diseases, the ability to reconstruct ancient genomes is a game-changer for researchers who can navigate the ethical perils.