In finding cures for certain illnesses, genetic research is becoming increasingly important, but very few DNA samples from Africans are used as the basis for the studies.

Previously, African-Americans in the US had been excluded from DNA studies or were reluctant to participate due to a mistrust of medical research, according to Anil Shanker, senior vice president of research and innovation at the college.

In the beginning, researchers will collect samples from colleges in the US and the University of Zambia, but they intend to expand their search in Africa.

The Diaspora Human Genomics Institute will store the information collected from the samples for five years.