Genotype Data Version 2 (2006-2010 Samples)

Approximately 3,000 samples, collected during the HRS 2010 field period, have been genotyped and, combined with genotyped samples from 2006-2008, are available from dbGaP as Version 2 of the HRS data. The relationship matrix estimated using the KING Robust Method for these data will also be available with this update.

The 2010 sample addition includes half of the new cohort and minority sample expansion with the remaining half to be added with Version 3.

The genotyping was performed by the NIH Center for Inherited Disease Research (CIDR, X01HG005770-01, http://www.cidr.jhmi.edu/), using the Illumina HumanOmni2.5-8v1 array. Genotyping Quality Control was performed by the Genetics Coordinating Center at the University of Washington, Seattle, WA. A copy of the QC report is available here.

How to Apply

The genotype data and a limited set of phenotype measures have been deposited in the NIH GWAS repository (dbGaP), which provides a convenient method of distribution to researchers who meet NIH requirements for access. Researchers wishing to use the HRS genetic data must first apply to dbGaP for access to the genotyped data. The process to request access to any dbGaP study is done via the dbGaP authorized access system. Please see the YouTube video dbGaP: Apply for Controlled Access Data for a step-by-step demonstration of how the process works.

Cross-Reference File

Once access to dbGaP has been granted, researchers who wish to link to HRS phenotype measures not in dbGaP may apply for access to the HRS-dbGaP Cross-Reference File by submitting a Genetic Data Access Use Agreement.

  1. Visit the HRS User Registration/File Download Web site. Note: If you do not already have a username and password, you must register in order to enter the site and download HRS public (phenotype) data.
  2. Download and complete the Genetic Data Access Use Agreement
  3. Download and complete the Genetic Data Order Form
  4. Send a signed copy of these two documents...
    • via email (PDF) to:
      HRS Data Requests (hrsdatareq@umich.edu)
    • via surface mail to:
      Health and Retirement Study
      DUA Review Committee
      426 Thompson Street
      Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104-2321

HRS Public Data

Researchers can view the HRS public data (phenotypes) at any time by registering as an HRS data user. The concordance tool is a convenient way to search for survey content by topic/keyword.

Restricted Data Linkages

Users wishing to link to HRS restricted data products must submit a restricted data application.

Additional Information: