For researchers

How to request access to samples and data

Access to samples and related data stored in the Hematological Biobank is granted for haematological research approved by the biobank’s Executive Board. The Executive Board reviews and evaluates all applications and makes decisions on granting access to samples and data for research use. The Executive Board uses a set of predefined criteria and principles in its evaluation. The criteria take into account the requirements of the Biobank Act, the biobank's objectives, the clinical utility and applicability of the research results in patient care, and the scientific significance, quality, and impact of the research.

The processing time for applications is approximately 1–2 months, depending on the scope of the application.

Application for Access to Biobank Samples and Data

Written applications shall be submitted to the Hematological Biobank by email at hembio@helsinki.fi using the form Application for Access to Biobank Samples and Data.

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The application must include the following attachments in PDF format:

• study protocol

• description of the processing of samples and data (Data Management Document)

• favourable opinion from an Ethics Committee

• Principal Investigator's curriculum vitae (CV)

• list of the Principal Investigator's 10 most relevant publications.

If the application does not meet the requirements, the applicant may be asked to provide additional information before the review process can proceed.

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Biobank Executive Board Meetings and Application Deadlines

Meeting                Submission Deadline

17 Jun 2026         5 Jun at 23:59 CEST

19 Aug 2026        31 Jul at 23:59 CEST

16 Sep 2026        28 Aug at 23:59 CEST

14 Oct 2026        25 Sep at 23:59 CEST

11 Nov 2026       23 Oct at 23:59 CEST

16 Dec 2026        27 Nov at 23:59 CET

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Samples

• Bone marrow samples (viable frozen cells and cell pellets)

• Blood samples (serum, EDTA plasma, Li-heparin plasma, and EDTA whole blood)

• Disease cell and germline DNA

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Data Sets

Basic Data Set

The basic data set includes, where applicable, the following information:

• sex and age at sampling

• sampling date

• date of diagnosis

• diagnosis and disease status

• blast count (%) or the proportion of another disease-specific cell population

• molecular genetic findings (somatic mutations)

• immunophenotype (positive/negative)

• cytogenetic findings (karyotype).

Extended Data Set

In addition to the basic data set, the extended data set may include the following:

• FAB classification

• hematologic and biochemical laboratory parameters

• treatment details

• treatment response and outcome data.

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Pricing

A fee is charged for the processing of material requests and the release of samples and data in accordance with the current price list of the Hematological Biobank. ​Please note that a fee will also be charged for a negative decision in accordance with the current price list.

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For pricing-related inquiries, please email hembio@helsinki.fi.

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Biobank research

Explore studies that have utilised materials from the Hematological Biobank: