While the number of genetically informed studies in the social sciences is steadily increasing, the perception of this research, especially in sociology, remains controversial. In this paper, we attempt to bridge the gap between genetically informed designs on the one hand and sociological theories on the other. To exemplify the potential contribution that genetically informed research can make to social science research questions and explanations, we focus on the field of inequality research. Here, we not only address the question of how genetically informed studies, and particularly the parameters of the analyses, can be linked with established sociological theories and concepts of inequality research. In addition, we reflect on how differences in the significance of genetic variation between groups can be interpreted in the context of ethical considerations of equal opportunity. Not only in light of potential gains in knowledge, particularly for sociological inequality research, but also generally for sociology, a stronger engagement with the role of genes appears relevant. Given the extensive research outside of sociology and the increasing use of individual molecular genetic profiles, further engagement with the significance and interpretation of genetic influences for the genesis of life chances is essential.