Two more biobanks of the German Biobank Network (GBN) have been awarded the "Quality Label" of the European biobank network BBMRI-ERIC (Biobanking and Biomolecular Resources Research Infrastructure – European Research Infrastructure Consortium): the Leipzig Medical Biobank (LMB) and the Augsburg Central BioBank (ACBB).
With the Quality Label, BBMRI-ERIC recognises biobanks that meet high standards of quality and transparency and, in particular, align their processes with the international biobanking standard DIN EN ISO 20387. It is based on a structured assessment procedure for quality management, processes and structures.
Different paths to the goal
The Leipzig Medical Biobank has many years of experience in quality-assured biobanking and has continuously developed its processes over many years. The Augsburg Central BioBank, on the other hand, is a comparatively young organisation that has built up and successfully established its structures in a short space of time.
Both biobanks were supported within the framework of the GBN quality programme through audits, advice and exchange. This support made a significant contribution to the standardisation and targeted further development of processes.
Quality as a continuous process
Dr Angela Langer, Biobank Manager at ACBB, emphasises: "The efforts to achieve the BBMRI-ERIC Quality Label were largely supported by the GBN and the audits. They have helped us to review and further improve our processes."
Dr. Ronny Baber, Head of the LMB, emphasises: "Quality management is a central component of biobanking that distinguishes biobanks from pure sample collections."
Importance for research and networking
With the award, both biobanks strengthen their visibility in the European context and contribute to the further harmonisation of quality standards in biobanking. The personal presentation of the Quality Labels is planned as part of the Europe Biobank Week 2026.
BBMRI-ERIC announcement on the award of the Quality Label to the LMB
BBMRI-ERIC announcement on the award of the ACBB
Further information on certification, accreditation and quality labels for biobanks