Education is the cornerstone of biobanking
We promote the quality, the management and the biobanking networks through the a new recognized and up-to-date CAS in biobanking.
Read our related newsletters Follow the developments
Certificate of Advanced Studies
in Biobanking
To meet the needs of the different audiences interested in biobanking, we develop in collaboration with different partners (Geneva University, HSeT Foundation, Pasteur Institute), a training course divided into 3 modules. These modules can be followed independently or in succession, in which case the training would lead to a CAS type certification awarded by the University of Geneva.
Introduction
The Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS) in Biobanking of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Geneva is an innovative and unique training course in Switzerland and around the world. The aim of the CAS is to train individuals from around the world with an interest in biobanking and research (e.g., PhDs, physicians, clinical investigators, ethics committees, patient organizations). This state‑of‑the‑art advanced training programme is meticulously designed to give participants the indispensable knowledge and proficient skills critical for the successful establishment and management of a biobank. The central purpose is to elevate the standards of quality, management protocols, and interconnections within the domains of clinical laboratory medicine and pioneering research endeavors.
Objectives
Module 1 — The Basics of biobanking
- Recognise the importance of biobanks in improving research quality
- Understand the different types of biobanks and be aware of the main biobanking networks
- Master the ethical and legal framework relevant to biobanking
- Integrate the governance requirements for the implementation of a biobank
Module 2 — Implementation of the biobanking processes
- Recognize and understand how to use the different types of consent
- Know and implement the required documentation to be set up
- Establish the technical and logistical aspects to ensure the exploitation of a biobank and guarantee the quality of the conserved resources
- Manage and maintain the resources necessary for a successful biobank operation
Module 3 — Professional management of a biobank
- Recognize the processes and resources involved in the professional management of a biobank
- Understand and implement a QMS, measure its effectiveness and ensure continuous improvement
- Select the appropriate standards in adequacy with the defined quality objectives
Audience
Beginners to specialized professionals in Switzerland and abroad, working with biological samples and wishing to acquire harmonized and proper knowledge and competencies in biobanking: medical doctors, biologists, biochemists, pharmacists, researchers, biobank managers, data managers, clinical investigators, ethics committees, patient organisations, etc.
Module 1 is designed for actors (e.g. PhDs, physicians, clinical researchers, ethics committees, patient organisations) having an interest in learning about the basics of biobanking (Beginner)
Module 2 is oriented to participants having followed Module 1 or professionals dealing with biological sample management (Intermediate).
Module 3 targets professionals having followed the previous modules,
such as biobank managers, quality control officers, clinical unit managers (Advanced).
CAS in Biobanking, General Presentation
By Prof. Jean Villard
Head of the Immunology and Transplant Unit, HUG
The Basics of Biobanking (Module 1)
By Dr. Christine Joye
SBP Executive Director
Easy-GCS
The Easy-GCS is an online tool that provides researchers with easy accessible and relevant information – needed for study planning and conduct.
SBP has worked in collaboration with SCTO to develop the biobanking module of the Easy Guide for Clinical studies. The Easy-GCS is a comprehensive tool that provides all professionals involved in clinical studies answers and guidance on how to proceed with the set up and implementation of their study. In practice, the information related to the proper conduct of a clinical trial is accessible through a GRID divided into six study phases (from concept to completion) and eleven study subjects including the one focusing on Biobanking.
The new educational tool including the biobanking module should be available in 2023. This work is a first education program on biobanking within clinical studies and a fruitful collaboration with SCTO.