Helpful Information

Since our doors opened in 2012 Qatar Biobank has been welcoming participants whose data and samples have been collected and stored.

Qatar Biobank recognizes the importance of data and bio sample sharing. Researchers whose applications are approved will gain access to this information and biosamples. The Qatar Biobank Research Access policy has been developed and implemented in order to enable informed and efficient collaboration, to encourage fair, timely and transparent access to Qatar Biobank/Qatar Genome Programme research data for high quality research.

During the clinic visit the participant consents to providing blood, urine and saliva samples. Whole blood, urine and saliva are processed within Qatar Biobank for clinical analysis and storage.

Qatar Biobank is ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 27001: 2013 accredited which provides our researcher’s assurance that our procedures are standardized and validated and the quality of our samples and data collected is consistently high. Our collected biological samples are processed and tracked using some of the latest technologies available and the automated processes allow fast throughput of high volumes of samples. During DNA/RNA extraction the use of Hamilton’s magnetic bead technology helps the biobank to provide high quality samples for researchers and the Qatar Genome Programme for DNA sequencing. The introduction of the Lab Chip equipment removes manual time consuming workflows by producing fast, high resolution sample quantification data.

Validation parameters are confirmed during the processing of samples and these include:

• Calibration Function/Linearity
• Sensitivity
• Limit of Detection
• Limit of Quantification
• Precision
• Accuracy
• Scope of Application Methods (Dynamic range of method)
• Proficiency testing
• Evaluation of expanded measurement uncertainty

The automation of the biological sample processing allows Qatar Biobank to increase the number of samples that can be managed on a daily bases, increasing the number of resources available to researchers. The quality and the safety of the samples will be maintained over time by using the most reliable storage systems and procedures including sample tracking, liquid nitrogen storage and duplicate storage sites. Qatar Biobank has state of the art storage facilities for biological samples, with a cryopreservation laboratory and -80 °C automated bio store capable of safely storing over 2 million samples. The automated storage allows ease of sample monitoring and efficient sample retrieval and collection,allowing researchers fast access to their requested samples.

Currently the types and numbers of samples stored at Qatar Biobank are listed below for access to the full data catalogue.

Conditions of use

• Biological samples and information from Qatar Biobank may only be used for scientific purposes
• Only approved medical researchers planning high-quality and beneficial research will be given access to biological samples and information
• Only approved medical researchers will have access to the information and samples provided by Qatar participants
• We will need to verify research credentials, the standing and reputation of the institutions and the worthiness of researcher’s planned research

Timeline for delivering data and samples to researchers