‘Churchill gene’ discovered

A gene has been uncovered that may help to create born leaders.
By The Newsroom
Published 16th Jan 2013, 06:00 BST

The leadership gene, known as rs4950, is an inherited DNA sequence associated with people taking charge.

Scientists accept that leadership skills are also learned. But the gene may provide the vital push needed to make someone into a manager rather than a minion.

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Researchers led by Dr Jan-Emmanuel De Neve, of University College London, found the gene after analysing DNA samples from around 4,000 individuals and matching them to information about jobs and relationships.

The new research suggests at least the possibility that some of the great figures from history, such as Gandhi, Nelson Mandela and Winston Churchill, were blessed with the leadership gene.