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Founded in 1970, the Behavior Genetics Association (BGA) is an international society. Behavior genetics has a strong tradition in twin and family study designs, and more recently gene-finding studies.


The purpose of the BGA is to promote the scientific study of the interrelationship of genetic mechanisms and behavior, both human and animal; to encourage and aid the education and training of research workers in the field of behavior genetics; and to aid in the dissemination and interpretation to the general public of knowledge concerning the interrelationship of genetics and behavior, and its implications for health and human development and education.


We welcome scientists who share our interest in the interrelationships between genes and traits/behavior, both in humans and non-human animals.

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** In memoriam of Professor Peter McGuffin CBE FMedSci **


Dear BGA Colleagues,

It is with a heavy heart that we share news of the passing of Professor Peter McGuffin (1949-2024). Peter was a world-renowned scientist and scholar whose work had a profound impact on the field of psychiatric genetics. As many of you may know, Peter was awarded the BGA Dobzhansky Award for Lifetime Achievement at last summer’s meeting in Murcia, Spain. This award will be posthumously bestowed later this year at the annual Behavior Genetics Association conference in London.

Alongside this award, there will be a special tribute to Peter at our upcoming annual meeting. Unbeknownst to many, in addition to his scholarly work, Peter was an accomplished musician. This tribute will include the world premiere of a string quartet composition which he wrote last year, featuring the renowned Heath Quartet. This will be followed by a eulogy by one of Peter's PhD students, Professor Anita Thapar.

We share here the Kings College announcement about Professor McGuffin's death as well as this 5-minute tribute to Peter from his retirement event in 2013.

With best wishes,

Valerie Knopik, President
Chandra Reynolds, President-Elect
Lisabeth DiLalla, Past President