Scientific technology & expertise

Westmead Biobanking

Westmead Biobank provides biospecimen processing and storage services for both biobanks and researchers. As a central contact point for a large network of biobanks on the Westmead campus, Westmead Biobank can also assist with researcher requests for biospecimens.

Biobank storage facilities

The Westmead Biobank offers storage and retrieval of biospecimens at a range of temperatures. Specimens are accurately tracked, saving users the time-consuming task of inventory management. All freezers and cryotanks have 24hr temperature monitoring and alarm response.

Automated cryostorage

The Askion C-Line HS200 is a robotic LN2 cryotank with automated sample tracking down to single barcoded cryovials. The Askion protects sample integrity with an uninterrupted cooling chain, and enables management of sample collections with increased accuracy and efficiency.

Liquid handling system

The EpMotion 5075t automatic liquid handler can be configured for various high-throughput applications, including: DNA extraction, aliquotting purified DNA and serial dilutions into multiple 96-well-plates.

Techniques, technologies & services

  • Biospecimen processing services
    Specimen receipt – staff on-call for receipt and tracking of specimens by transfer from clinical collection points in the Westmead precinct, or by courier
  • Primary processing – blood fraction aliquots, formalin-fixed or snap-frozen tissue samples, PBMCs
  • DNA/RNA extraction, quantitation and QC – blood, tissue, cultured cells and other sample types
  • Specimen dispatch – coordination of specimen dispatch, local and international shipping
  • Sample management – Laboratory Information Management System – Matrix Gemini

Westmead Research Hub (WRH) Facilities

Westmead Biobank is one of nine core facilities at Westmead precinct. WRH core facilities are available for all WRH researchers, external researchers and industry partners. Learn more about what our other facilities have to offer.

More information

Further information can be found at: westmead.org.au/biobanking
Please email us at: westmead.biobank@wimr.org.au

Location

Westmead Biobank is located on Level 2 of the Westmead Institute for Medical Research