Table 2 Initial considerations for a process of informed proxy consent in human ancient DNA (aDNA) research, aligned to Fig. 1 steps 1 and 2

Project overview

What are the scope and intentions of this research?

Why is this research important?

What research questions will be investigated?

What value would aDNA add to our understanding? How will aDNA expand on what is already known?

Where will the research be carried out?

Who is funding, or potentially funding, the research?

Who will work on the research? Disclosure of personnel. Define each person’s role.

What analytical techniques will be used?

What is the expected impact on the human remains? How much and what tissues will be used?

What type of data will be generated?

How, where, and by whom will results and data be stored and disseminated?

What are potentially sensitive topics and aspects of the study?

What are the expected results?

How can the project be revised or changed based on community requests?

What is the project timeline?

Are there plans to expand the project? If so, what will additional consent and engagement processes involve?

Document the process from the beginning and throughout its duration.

Limitation of study aims & objectives

Are the study questions and scope clearly defined?

What are the benefits and significance of this research for descendant(s) and interested and affected persons, groups and/or parties from the relevant communities?

What are the risks of this research for descendant(s) and interested and affected persons, groups and/or parties in the community?

How do the researcher(s) and institutions tangibly benefit from this research? What’s in it for them?

How do the descendant(s) and other interested and affected persons, groups and/or parties benefit from this research? What would they like from the research and why would they like the research done?

What has been implemented to ensure protection that researcher(s) cannot use these samples for other research questions and studies not approved through this informed consent?

Communication structure

Identify a representative or group of representatives from the descendant(s) and/or interested parties who can act as a broader liaison(s).

Identify accessible communication tools (Email, WhatsApp, Teams, Skype, Zoom) etc…

Are there language barriers between the research team and descendant(s) and community interested and affected persons, groups and/or parties?

Has a nominee been nominated and agreed with consensus to carry voice of descendant(s)/community interested and affected persons, groups and/or parties?

How will decisions be made? When can the appointed contact person make decisions and when will broader consultation be required?

Is there a plan for capacity building or training?

Provide time for thoughtful consideration and engagement of ideas.

Develop a plan for engagement throughout and beyond the study to maintain relevant communication channels.

Awareness that back-and-forth communication can be slow, factoring in reasonable time.

Identify a plan for obtaining and executing research consent.