Unique Biobanking University Course Attracts Worldwide Participants to Luxembourg

The second edition of the “Certificate on Principles of biobanking for clinical, biological and environmental biospecimens and bioresources” course, co-organised by IBBL (Integrated BioBank of Luxembourg) and the University of Luxembourg, started this Monday 10th June on the campus of Limpertsberg.

The lack of similar continuing education courses is not the only reason for the international appeal of the course. The growing reputation of Luxembourg, and its university, as a hub for biomedical research, and IBBL as a biobank with high standards and high quality services has also contributed to the increase in participants. Moreover, the course and the certificate have been endorsed by the International Society of Biological and Environmental Repositories (ISBER), the largest international forum addressing technical, legal, ethical, and managerial issues relevant to biobanking and a division of the American Society for Investigative Pathology.

In line with the government’s collaboration policy for research centres, the course is taught by senior scientists from IBBL, the University of Luxembourg, CRP-Santé, CRP Gabriel Lippmann and visiting biobanking experts from France, the UK and Germany. Directed by Prof. Paul Heuschling from the Faculty of Science, Technology and Communication, the course covers a variety of topics to provide a strong theoretical background in the science and management of biobanks. In particular, the interdisciplinary teaching of approaches used in repositories for both, human and environmental, biospecimens marks the course’s strength and uniqueness. Additionally, the participants will gain hands-on experience in the conservation, storage and processing of biological samples through practical sessions in IBBL’s laboratories.

“Following the success of the 2011 course, we are delighted to welcome a new set of students from all around the world” comments Dr Fay Betsou, Chief of Biospecimen Science at IBBL and associated professor for the course, “At IBBL we are dedicated to contributing to education and professional development within the research community by sharing our knowledge and expertise. This course is also a great example of how different research entities can collaborate on platforms other than conventional scientific studies.”