Application for release of samples for research will be by written request, using a specific request form (contact WNRTB@cardiff.ac.uk). Applications will be assessed by the Tissue Bank Governance Committee. The committee will meet to consider applications as required, with a deadline for a decision of 6 weeks from receipt of original signed copy. Where members of the governance committee are involved in a particular application for use of tissue, those members will not be involved in the consideration of that application and will not be present when it is discussed. Where necessary, the committee will seek external review from appropriate senior investigators in the UK neurology research community before coming to a decision. This is stated on the application form and applicants have the option of excluding particular external assessors if they wish. Applicants wishing to request further samples will be required to complete the Tissue Re-application Form for access to materials from the Welsh Neuroscience Research Tissue Bank.

We also welcome applications for pilot projects. A pilot project is defined as one that requires 20 samples or fewer and that is likely to lead to larger funded projects on successful completion. A maximum of 20 x sample aliquots can be requested, free of charge, to test proof of principle or to generate preliminary data required for funding applications. Applications will be reviewed by at least one Director and/or the Tissue Bank manager to ensure sample availability. Applications will not be circulated in full to the governance panel. A limit of one application per project is in place, and additional applications for tissue will be subject to a full application. Any samples supplied are to be used in the approved project only and for the agreed duration. Any remaining samples must be destroyed at the end of the project. If the samples are needed for an extended duration, or for a purpose other than that described in the approved application, an amendment must be submitted to the Tissue Bank and approved prior to any non-approved activities taking place. We understand that pilot studies may result in further funding and project extension and ask the researchers to contact the Tissue Bank to discuss any extension requests they may have. Of note, any requests for very specialised samples or rare diagnoses where cohort numbers are likely to be low, will be asked to complete a full application.

A signed Material Transfer Agreement (MTA) must be in place prior to supply of any samples outside of Cardiff University. A signed Tissue Request Form (memorandum of understanding) will be required for all researchers, including Cardiff University.