Experts Speak Forum: Implementation of the FAIR Principles in Biobanking Needs Fair Incentives

Area of Science:

• Biomedical research
• Data management
• Biobanking

Background:

• The FAIR principles, designed for data, are increasingly relevant to biological samples.
• Biobanks face unique challenges in adhering to FAIR principles.
• Existing literature highlights these challenges, prompting expert discussion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To gather diverse expert perspectives on the application of FAIR principles to biobanks.
• To explore the challenges and opportunities presented by FAIR principles for biobanks.
• To identify key factors for successful FAIR implementation in biobanking.

Main Methods:

• Expert elicitation through invited contributions.
• Diverse perspectives from global human, industrial, and environmental biobanks.
• Focus on technical feasibility and incentive structures.

Main Results:

• FAIR principles present both significant challenges and opportunities for biobanks.
• Existing tools and frameworks can support FAIR implementation.
• Meaningful incentives are crucial for driving adoption and success.

Conclusions:

• Biobanks can leverage FAIR principles for enhanced data and sample management.
• A combination of existing tools and strategic incentives is necessary.
• Future efforts should focus on creating sustainable incentive models for FAIR biobanking.