BioLink: call for proposals for the networking of biobanks established for research purposes

The SNSF is launching a call for project proposals aimed at networking biobanks by harmonising their IT systems. The networking serves a well-defined scientific research purpose. The call is open to all research domains.

BioLink is intended for investigators who wish to network their biobanks using IT systems. This harmonisation of IT systems will result in the sharing of data so as to address well-defined, scientific questions. BioLink is open to all research domains and responds to the needs for networking IT systems of existing biobanks.

Applications must be based on relevant, original and unique scientific questions whose investigation critically depends on the networking of the biobanks. Applications must also provide information on the selection, development and implementation of the IT systems. Further, they must also describe how the interoperability of the biobanks will be guaranteed in the long term.

The duration of funding is limited to 24 months. The grants are ïntended to support the technical development and implementation of IT systems (IT equipment, software, licences) as well as the salaries of technical collaborators employed in implementing the IT systems. Costs for the creation, expansion and maintenance of biobanks, as well as research costs associated with the investigation of the scientific questions, are not covered.

Call for proposals

4.7 million Swiss francs have been allocated to the 2018 call with the intention of supporting 6 to 8 projects.

Submission deadlines

Letters of intent: 16 July 2018

Applications: 24 September 2018 via mySNF