The Francis Crick Institute's upcoming exhibition, We Go Way Back, is set to revolutionize our understanding of human evolution and disease through the lens of ancient DNA. This groundbreaking exhibition, opening in July 2026, showcases how modern genomics techniques are enabling scientists to extract and analyze DNA from ancient remains, offering a glimpse into our shared human history. By examining these genetic fragments, researchers are uncovering fascinating connections between ancient populations and modern humans, challenging established narratives and revealing surprising twists in our past. The exhibition's centerpiece is the Ancient Genomics Laboratory, where scientists are meticulously building large-scale datasets of ancient genomes, employing high-throughput sequencing and computational models to reconstruct human history with unprecedented detail. This work not only sheds light on the evolution of pathogens and disease-related genes but also provides valuable insights for modern biomedical research, including studies on disease susceptibility and pathogen evolution. Pontus Skoglund, Senior Group Leader of the Ancient Genomics Laboratory, emphasizes the rapid advancements in ancient DNA research, enabling us to answer questions once considered unattainable. He highlights the lab's ongoing efforts to expand our understanding of shared human history, one ancient sample at a time, and expresses enthusiasm for sharing this journey with visitors at the Crick. The exhibition also features contributions from renowned classicist Mary Beard, who underscores the transformative impact of ancient DNA on our understanding of the past, introducing surprising twists and reshaping established narratives. As the exhibition unfolds, it becomes evident that ancient DNA is not just a scientific curiosity but a powerful tool for unraveling the mysteries of human evolution and disease. By bringing these ancient stories to life, We Go Way Back promises to captivate audiences and inspire further exploration into our shared genetic heritage.
