FAQs

What if I wish to publish my data?

The HDBR strongly encourages publications of research using our tissue bank.  All publications arising from the use of material provided by the HDBR must acknowledge the contribution of the HDBR tissue bank within the manuscript.  We would also encourage the publication of data within open access journals, a list of which can be found at http://www.doaj.org/.

Where can I find the HDBR logo to use on my presentations?

A copy of the HDBR logo can be downloaded by clicking this link.

I am giving a talk and would like to acknowledge the contribution of the HDBR, is there a slide I can use?

We really appreciate your acknowledgement of the HDBR in any presentations you give as this really helps us to communicate the resource to a wider audience. To help you do this, we have put together a power-point slide which can be downloaded here. Please feel free to amend this slide as you wish.

Do I need to obtain ethical approval for use of the HDBR material?

Ethical permission for the collection of this material for research has been obtained at the Institute of Human Genetics, Newcastle and at the Institute of Child Health, London . This approval extends to all UK based applicants who will not usually need to obtain their own ethical approval prior to the release of tissue from the HDBR. However, applicants will be required to obtain their own ethical approval from an NHS research ethics committee if their proposed project lies outside the activities for which the HDBR has existing ethical approval (primarily for gene expression studies), or if asked to do so by the HDBR. Under such circumstances, no tissues can be distributed until documentary proof of ethical approval has been received.

Non-United Kingdom applicants should be aware that it is their responsibility to make sure that they have satisfied their own institution's ethical committee and that the importation and use of human embryonic material for research complies with their own country's national ethical practices and guidelines. The Human Developmental Biology Resource cannot be held responsible for users' actions.

Is the HDBR licenced to provide human genetic material?

Yes, the HDBR is licenced by the Human Tissue Authority (HTA) to provide human genetic material to users.

Why do I need to provide my courier account details?

Although the HDBR does not charge for use of tissue or other embryonic and fetal materials, we need to recover any costs associated with delivery.

What is a Material Transfer Agreement and do I need one?

A Material Transfer Agreement (MTA) is a legal agreement between your host institution and the HDBR centre providing material that ensures appropriate protocols are in place for transferring the human genetic material between our institution and yours.  MTAs frequently cover the transfer of biological materials, which in this case could include tissues, slides or cells.

If the HDBR is sending embryonic and/or fetal materials then an MTA will need to be set up.  Information about the procedure can be obtained from the Resource Manager at enquiries@hdbr.org.