The Integrated Biobank Mannheim (IBM) has been a partner biobank of the German Biobank Alliance (GBA) since December, having previously held observer status. The basis for this step was a successfully completed "friendly audit", which was carried out at IBM for the first time. IBM was able to demonstrate its performance in the areas of biosample management, IT infrastructure and quality management.
As a partner biobank, IBM is now increasingly involved in the activities of the GBA. This includes regular participation in proficiency tests and friendly audits, which can enable the biobank to receive a "Quality Label" from the European biobank network BBMRI-ERIC and to prepare for accreditation according to DIN EN ISO 20387.
"The audit programme is a great support in setting up a biobank QM system," said IBM Director Dr. Romy Kirsten. "The atmosphere of trust among the GBA biobanks creates a constructive framework in which suggestions for improvement are encouraged. We are happy to invest our time and, as part of the community, to support other biobanks as auditors."
About the Integrated Biobank Mannheim (IBM)
IBM is the central biobank of the Mannheim Medical Faculty at the University of Heidelberg. It supports biomedical research by providing quality-assured and well-annotated biospecimens and associated data. The aim is to promote research into the early detection, diagnosis and treatment of diseases. The new status as partner biobank strengthens IBM's role within the GBA and expands the opportunities for national and international collaboration.
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