ABOUT | Identify Genealogy

Erinn SearS

Owner, Forensic Genealogist

Erinn Sears is a professional forensic genealogist specializing in forensic and investigative genealogy. She provides expert research services to probate attorneys, estate professionals, law enforcement agencies, and private clients. Erinn integrates traditional genealogical methods with advanced DNA analysis to identify unknown heirs, establish kinship, and resolve complex family relationships—supporting legal proceedings, estate resolutions, and family reunifications.

Erinn brings a multidisciplinary background to her work, including experience as a former forensic scientist, board-certified medical laboratory scientist, project manager, and laboratory quality and compliance specialist. With a strong foundation in molecular diagnostics, forensic science, and laboratory leadership, Erinn brings scientific precision and investigative skill to every case.

She has previously served as a researcher for BYUtv’s Relative Race and as Program Chair for the Genealogy Forum of Oregon’s Irish Special Interest Group. In addition to her private casework, Erinn also volunteers by contributing her expertise to cases involving unidentified remains and violent crimes.

Her work is grounded in evidence-based practices and guided by a commitment to accuracy, ethics, and professional standards—producing well-documented, defensible results for use in probate, heirship, and criminal investigations.

Education

2003-2005

Master of Science
University of Florida

Erinn holds a Master of Science in Forensic DNA and Serology from the University of Florida, where she gained advanced training in forensic biology, DNA analysis, and criminalistics. This graduate program emphasized the scientific principles and laboratory techniques essential to modern forensic casework, including human identification through biological evidence. Her education directly supports her work in forensic and investigative genealogy, where she applies DNA methodologies and evidence-based practices to uncover biological relationships, assist with unidentified human remains cases, and support legal professionals in kinship analysis and cold case investigations.

1999-2000

Bachelor of Science
Oregon Health & Science University

Erinn holds a Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science (Medical Technology) from Oregon Health & Sciences University, where she received rigorous training in clinical laboratory diagnostics. This degree provided a strong foundation for interpretation of complex biological data—skills that are essential to her work in genetic genealogy. Whether she is conducting traditional family history research, applying genetic genealogy to unknown parentage cases, or assisting with forensic investigations to identify unknown individuals, her background in medical laboratory science ensures that she approaches each case with scientific precision and evidence-based methodology.

1993-1995

Bachelor of Science
Western Michigan University

Erinn earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Western Michigan University, where she studied genetics, human biology, and molecular processes central to life sciences. This academic foundation enhances her work in forensic genealogy. Her background in biology ensures she approaches each case with scientific accuracy and critical thinking.