Please note: our client list is currently full. Please still feel free to contact us for a free consultation to determine if you would be a good candidate for our waitlist.

No two families share the same history, and no two research projects are identical. At Scientific Genealogy, we combine rigorous academic methodology with advanced archival expertise to solve complex historical puzzles.

Standard rates for bespoke historical, genetic, and material culture research typically start from £200 GBP per hour.

For extensive or multi-phase projects, an upfront, fixed-rate structure may be agreed upon.

Phase 1: Consultation

If your project is a good fit, we will arrange a brief, complimentary consultation via secure video chat (or telephone) to discuss your case and ensure our specialised methodology is the perfect fit for your family history.

Phase 2: The Initial Assessment & Feasibility Search

Family History and Lineage Research
Every standard family history lineage or brick-wall project begins with an initial 3 to 5-hour targeted search retainer.

The Deliverable: After an initial search phase, clients receive a formal interim report detailing all findings, a negative-search log (every archive and repository cross-referenced ), and a strategic roadmap.
Project Proposal: If the initial search yields promising leads, we will provide a verified estimate of the hours required to complete the broader objective in a Project Proposal that identifies the most promising research directions.
Next Steps: You retain full control over whether to proceed to a full research project. A typical comprehensive family history project averages 20 to 30 hours total.

DNA & Genetic Genealogy Feasibility
For complex DNA and brick-wall identity projects, we require an initial 1 to 2-hour feasibility review to analyse the generations involved and determine which testing pathways (autosomal, Y-DNA, mtDNA) are viable before starting a full investigation.

House Histories, Material Culture, Archival Storage, & Artifact Identification
For estate archives, house histories, and artifact provenance, pricing is entirely bespoke. We evaluate projects via high-resolution digital photography or via in-person site visits to physically assess, organize, or digitize the collection. Budget boundaries are always rigidly established and agreed upon before any handling or research begins.

Phase 3: Comprehensive Project with Research Report

While every case is unique, most research projects align with the following investment scales (exclusive of direct document repository costs, certificates, or application fees):

Specific brick wall request: 5-10 hours of research
Limited Project: 15 hours of research, plus document costs (e.g., ordering a death certificate)
Extensive Project: 30+ hours of research, plus document costs
Genetic Genealogy Project: up to 7 generations and 5-20+ hours of research
Family Tree Authentication: up to 12 generations and 20-40+ hours of research
Lineage application: 5-20+ hours of research, plus document costs and application fees
Archival organisation and storage: typically 3-20 hours depending on the project
Digitisation and archival package: typically 5-30 hours depending on the project

All completed research projects receive a comprehensive, archival-grade Research Report.

Genetic genealogy projects typically receive two versions of the same Research Report: a complete master report for private family use, and a redacted, privacy-protected version safe for public sharing.

What if I just need advice?

If you prefer to conduct your own family history research but have encountered a significant "brick wall," you can retain Dr. Pruitt for a specialised Research Consultation Package (typically 2–3 hours total).

This includes 1–2 hours of intensive independent pre-review of your existing data and trees, followed by a 1-hour private video consultation to deliver your specialized breakthrough strategy, archival recommendations, and DNA testing roadmap.

Contact Form

If you are considering commissioning our services and would like to request a place on our waitlist, please submit a brief overview of your research goals via the form on our Contact page.