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The German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK) is seeking a second central biobank for the biosample resource of its Heart Bank. Going forward, this biobank will store part of the biosample collection as part of the contingency plan and manage it jointly with BIOBANK Universitätsmedizin Greifswald. Biobanks at both university and non-university research institutions in Germany are eligible to apply. The deadline for applications is 31 December 2026.
The DZHK Heart Bank provides biosamples from DZHK clinical studies, together with the associated data, as a resource for cardiovascular research. The collection currently comprises around 350,000 sample vials, which have so far been stored centrally in Greifswald. In future, a second biobank will take on responsibility for approximately half of the collection. Distributing the samples across two sites will provide additional security for the collection and ensure reliable access for researchers.
The successful biobank will be responsible for storing and managing the samples at its site. Where required, it will send samples back to Greifswald, where the release of samples for research projects is coordinated. The two biobanks will also work together on quality assurance and on the further development of the DZHK Heart Bank.
Funding for the second biobank is initially planned for two years, starting on 1 September 2027, with funding of up to €400,000. Applicants must meet certain requirements, including sufficient storage capacity at minus 80 degrees Celsius, a contingency plan to safeguard against failures, and a robust quality management concept.
Interested biobanks should submit a project description and a tabular financial plan by 31 December 2026 via the DZHK Grant Management System. Those who do not yet have a user account should apply for registration by 1 December 2026 at the latest, by contacting gms@dzhk.de.
Further information: procedural and funding guidelines, and template for the project description
