The BC Biobank Network (BCBN) is a province-wide network of partner biospecimen collection sites. Biospecimens with annotated data are formally coordinated together as one unified resource to accelerate research discoveries.
The goal of the BCBN was to create a provincial unified resource of high-quality biospecimens paired with robust clinical data to enable translational research. Initially focused on COVID-19, the BCBN aims to quickly collect, store and distribute biospecimens and to prepare for and enable a distribution capability to support research studies. This ensures that all patients can contribute and all researchers can have rapid access to information and specimens which will maximize their value in the development of new ideas, translational research, and advancements in personalized medicine
Objectives & Goals
- To collect and store biospecimens and associated data from BC patients for future release and use by researchers
- To streamline the research patient recruitment processes
- To develop a catalogue/inventory of biospecimens with processes to enable linkages to clinical information – searchable and useable by researchers in BC.
- To build collaborative partnerships with researchers for streamlining biobanking activities.
- To develop an appropriate, transparent, and equitable access and release of process of the samples and associated data to researchers which is underpinned by applicable ethical and legal principles and regulatory frameworks.
- Build active communication around the availability of samples and create a community of practice around biobanking in BC
