Biobank research involves the use of systematic collections of human biomaterials and related data, in population-based or clinical investigations, to answer a broad array of research questions. Biobanks and large population cohorts are increasingly recognized as essential tools for exploring the origin of diseases, understanding the relationships between genetic and lifestyle determinants and diseases, and developing new diagnostic and drug therapies.

Our five-day programme addresses the fundamental concepts in biobanking research.

1. Introduction to biobanks: biobank research in the international context - population-based biobank studies - the Lifelines case study
2. Clinical biobanking and sample analysis: cases from the Parelsnoer Institute (PSI) - analytical quality
3. ICT and infrastructure: information technology in the biobank context - ICT management systems - questionnaire quality and design
4. Regulation and participation: participant and patient involvement - ethical, legal and social issues (ELSI) - consent and privacy
5. Practical considerations: standardization, essential tools, and quality management in biobanks - the future role of biobanks in research