Michigan Genomics Initiative (MGI)

MY PART study
Michigan and You - Partnering to Advance Research Together

About The Study

The MY PART (Michigan and You - Partnering to Advance Research Together) study at Michigan Medicine aims to enroll participants in the Michigan Genomics Initiative (MGI) from a wide range of backgrounds, ensuring representation across different health and disease statuses.   This approach supports the development of a robust biobank which encourages research across a variety of areas, including chronic diseases, mental health, and personalized medicine.

How to become a My Part Study Participant

Participation involves answering health-related survey questions, providing a genetic sample, and agreeing to provide the study team with access to electronic health record data. DNA is extracted from the genetic sample and genetically sequenced. The rest of the DNA sample is stored securely at U-M’s Central Biorepository.

Patients also consent to be contacted in the future for any applicable and IRB approved study.  Participation could advance research about common and serious medical conditions, adding to our understanding of disease etiology and potential interventions.

An informational pamphlet as well a consent document describe the process.

Interested in participating? Click the link below. If you have any questions, Email MYPARTstudy@med.umich.edu, call the study team at (734)764-5391,

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the Michigan and You – Partnering to Advance Research Together Study (MY PART)?
The purpose of this study is to enroll research participants who broadly reflect the diversity of the United States, across health status, age, gender identity, race, ethnicity, and geography, and to create a resource for approved researchers within and outside of the University of Michigan.


Why participate in MY PART?
Your participation may help us improve human health! Your participation will advance prediction, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment for all.


Who can take part?
Interested parties must meet ALL of the following criteria to be eligible for the study:

  • Must be 18 years of age or older 

  • Must reside in the United States

  • Must be willing to download and use a mobile app or a web browser

  • Must be willing to provide a genetic sample

The study team will screen for additional criteria during the enrollment process.


What will I be asked to do if I join the study?
You will be asked to download a mobile app or use a web browser, answer survey questions about your health and wellness, and provide a blood or saliva sample to the University of Michigan’s Central Biorepository.


How do I join the study?
Interested volunteers can join via an online form. If you prefer to have a study team member walk through the consent and enrollment process with you, contact the study team at MYPARTstudy@med.umich.edu to schedule a 15-20 minute phone call. You can also learn more about the MY PART study by visiting U-M Health Research.


How and where do I provide my genetic sample?
Genetic samples are provided via blood or saliva (recruiters select the best method for participants). Blood samples are drawn at any Michigan Medicine Lab. Recruiters will instruct participants on when they should provide a genetic sample. Kits to collect saliva samples are mailed to your home. This "spit kit" contains instructions on obtaining your sample and mailing it to the study team. 


Is participating going to cost me anything?
No, study participation is free of charge.


What data about me will be collected?

  1. Your DNA will be extracted from a blood or saliva sample

  2. Personal health information, including demographics, medical records, and health history

  3. Device and application data, such as number of steps taken or distance walked, if you choose to share these data


What happens to my data?
Your contact information and information that directly identifies you will be replaced with a random code before it is used for research purposes. 


Who will have access to my data?
After going through an approval process, researchers inside and outside the University of Michigan may access your data.


Are there any risks?
Study risks are minimal:

  • You could experience possible bruising, bleeding, or infection associated with a blood draw.

  • There is a small chance of confidentiality being lost. Several measures have been taken to reduce the breach of confidentiality. Your sample will be stored with a random code instead of your name, date of birth, or other identifying information.


Do I get compensated for my time in the study?
Yes! Participants will receive a $25 incentive once they have completed surveys and their sample has been processed by the CBR.


Whom can I contact if I have any questions?
The MY PART Study Team can be reached at MYPARTstudy@med.umich.edu