Tristan Paulino
Over the past two decades, genomics has transformed how scientists understand evolution, health, and disease. However, Indigenous Peoples remain underrepresented in genomic research due to historical misuse of biospecimens, lack of consent, culturally insensitive findings, and inequitable benefit sharing. These challenges have catalyzed the Indigenous Data Sovereignty movement, which emphasizes community control, self-determination, and culturally grounded governance of data from Indigenous populations. To build on the movement, SING Micronesia (Summer Internship for Indigenous Peoples in Genomics Micronesia) was developed from the pre-existing SING consortium model with aims to promote genomic research literacy and empower Micronesian communities to utilize emerging genomic technology to address pertinent problems in the region (i.e. climate change, health, conservation, etc.). SING Micronesia was first hosted by the University of Guam in 2024 and has since brought together Indigenous college students, public health professionals, ecologists, and community leaders representing multiple U.S.-affiliated Pacific Islands in Micronesia. Its curriculum combined scientific training, ethical and social discussions, biomedical laboratory training, and professional development, integrating Pacific cultural frameworks and values throughout. Participants conducted DNA extraction and Oxford-Nanopore sequencing, explored bioinformatics, and examined issues of data ownership and governance. Program evaluation results showed strong engagement by participants, particularly with hands-on laboratory and community-centered sessions which demonstrates the impact of culturally grounded and community-led genomic education. Future efforts aim to increase program sustainability and engagement, especially among non-U.S.-affiliated Pacific Islands. It is hoped that the continuation of this work will drive the advancement of Indigenous-driven genetic research and data sovereignty in the region.