Gil McVean uses mathematical, statistical and computational approaches to learn about fundamental biological and evolutionary processes, particularly recombination, mutation and natural selection, through the study of genetic variation in natural populations. He developed the first statistical method for estimating fine-scale patterns of recombination rate variation from genome-scale genetic variation data.  Application of this method led to the first fine-scale genetic map in humans, helped identify the hotspot-positioning gene PRDM9, and has led to discoveries about how recombination evolves.

He has also played leading roles in efforts to map patterns of genetic variation in humans through the International HapMap Project and the 1000 Genomes Project, made important contributions to theoretical population genetics and the study of mutation and developed an influential statistical method for imputing classical HLA alleles from SNP data.  His work on coloured de Bruijn graphs and graph genomes is helping to make possible the study of highly diverse species and genomic regions.

Gil’s work has been recognised through awards including the 2010 Francis Crick Medal and Lecture and the 2012 Weldon Memorial Prize.