StemBANCC: Governing Access to Material and Data in a Large Stem Cell Research Consortium

Area of Science:

• Stem cell research
• Biobanking
• Research consortia governance

Background:

• Sharing materials and data in stem cell research consortia requires robust governance.
• A well-defined framework is essential for transparency, accountability, and trust among partners.
• Avoiding excessive bureaucracy is critical for efficient collaboration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for the implementation of an internal governance framework for material and data sharing in stem cell research consortia.
• To present the development and implementation of a governance framework within the Stem cells for Biological Assays of Novel drugs and prediCtive toxiCology (StemBANCC) consortium as a case study.

Main Methods:

• The governance framework was developed in two stages.
• Stage one involved a working group identifying key components and drafting a policy from legal agreements.
• Stage two incorporated consortium-wide input for iterative development and final agreement, requiring careful time management.

Main Results:

• A practical example of developing and implementing a governance framework for material and data access in the StemBANCC consortium is detailed.
• The process facilitated input from all partners, leading to an agreed-upon policy document.
• The framework development served as an exploratory space for identifying gaps and specifying coordination activities.

Conclusions:

• Implementing an internal governance framework is crucial for effective and trustworthy collaboration in stem cell research consortia.
• The StemBANCC project demonstrates a successful, two-stage approach to developing such a framework.
• Careful planning, partner involvement, and time management are key to successful governance implementation.