Joining the Cambridge BioResource

Am I eligible?
The Cambridge BioResource is open to all volunteers aged 16 years and over, living or working within a 40 mile radius of Cambridge. Recruitment is ongoing throughout the year and volunteers can join at anytime. If you are interested in joining, please follow the steps below.

What does joining the Cambridge BioResource involve?
Joining the BioResource involves donating a sample of blood or saliva from which we will extract your DNA, signing a signing a consent form and completing a short questionnaire and data sheet. The DNA sample together with the information you provide will determine which research studies you will be invited to. To find out more about how we use your DNA sample to select you for studies click here.

Volunteers can decide whether to donate a sample of blood or saliva depending on their personal preference. Blood samples provide us with more information than saliva samples so volunteers who provide blood samples may be invited to a wider range of research studies. This is because we can isolate other components of the blood, such as blood fluid, which can be used for measuring biomarkers (indicators of cellular function and health status). Giving a saliva sample is a good alternative method of joining for those who prefer not to donate blood.

If you are interested in joining , please read our Volunteer Information Sheet.

How do I join?

Step 1: Contact us to let us know that you are interested in joining the panel.

Step 2: Arrange an appointment to donate your blood or saliva sample. Find out more about sample donations using the links below.

Step 3: Donate your sample and complete the study paperwork.