NEW SAMPLE ACCESS GUIDE FROM BIOBANK SWEDEN

The Swedish Research Council-funded research infrastructure Biobank Sweden supports healthcare providers and universities with medical faculties working towards national harmonisation in biobanking. A new, 25-page guide document has been put together with the objective to facilitate access to samples for research and clinical trials.

The document provides guidance on what researchers and companies should do to get access to existing samples in Swedish biobanks, as well as requirements for collecting new samples from persons in Sweden. It also provides guidelines for researchers and companies regarding biobank services available for the collection of new samples and the release of samples. The guide will contribute to making shared resources available and ensure that support is used optimally and with respect for the integrity of patients and donors.

The sample access guide will be made available online in September, and anyone interested in learning more, will be able to pick up their own copy at Biobank Sweden’s booth (51) at Europe Biobank Week in Antwerp, September 4-7.