Overview

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
• Proficiency testing
• Scope of Application Methods (Dynamic range of method)
• 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.