2025-11-13T15:01:06Z

WikiSysop: /* Day 4 – 2 October 2025 */

== Program ==

'''<span style="color: red; font-size: 18pt;">[https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/90-U0OeUSsGLckcITG-6jg Download GGBN 2025 Program and Abstract Book]</span>'''

'''<span style="color: red;">Most of the presentations are now available through the GGBN Document Library as open access docs, some are available in the library only. Links are provided below. Presentations with restricted access can be located on the Document Library under the Category “GGBN Conferences,” Subcategory “GGBN 2025 Conference". Please contact library@ggbn.org to request a library account.</span>'''

= Day 1 – 29 September 2025 =

{|
|width="33%"| (times to be confirmed)
|width="33%"| Excursion to Boulders Beach
|width="33%"|
|-
| ''18:00 - 29:00''
| ''GGBN Ice Breaker''
|
|}
= Day 2 – 30 September 2025 =
{|
|width="33%"| 08:00 - 08:45
|width="33%"| ''Registration opens''
|width="33%"|
|-
| 08:45 - 09:00
| '''Welcome by SANBI Management'''
|-
| 09:00 - 09:30
| '''Keynote Address: The Global Biodiversity Framework as a Context for Sustainable Biodiversity Biobanks in South Africa''' - ''Prof. Michelle Hamer''
|-
|rowspan="12"|09:30 - 11:00
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 2.1 Lightning Talks for Participating Biobanks</h1>'''Chairs''' - Katie Barker and Jonas Astrin

This session provides participants the opportunity to share information on theirbiobanks / molecular collections, including facilities and infrastructure,interoperability, address issues related to long-term sustainability, address challenges around sample and data quality. Use cases can be presented, or experiences shared about biobank planning, repository relocation, etc. For this conference, African biobanks are particularly encouraged to introduce themselves, but of course any biobank is welcome.
|-
| '''Biobanking for Biodiversity: Processes, Access, and Applications''' - ''Francinah Keneilwe Mosupye''
|
|-
| '''Coral Hospitals as Biobanking Centers: Insights from the NMMBA Model as a Strategic Response to Global Warming and Climate Change''' - ''Chiahsin Lin''
|
|-
| '''ARC-Vegetable, Industrial and Medicinal Plant in Vitro and Seed Genebank Collections: Safeguarding Crop Diversity''' - ''Lindiwe Mokgakane''
|
|-
| '''Safeguarding citrus diversity''' - ''Elize Jooste''
|
|-
| '''Building plant repositories for biodiversity research and conservation. A case of Tooro Botanical Gardens, Uganda''' - ''Mutegeki Alislam Said Musa''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/yCu2-n4-RdmQsZIYcH7xXQ PDF]
|-
| '''A review of biobanking activities for plant biodiversity in Rwanda''' - ''Pascal Sibomana''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/ZZTvrfKRTe6NvvZMEtL7eQ PDF]
|-
| '''Preserving Aquatic Biodiversity: The Role of the NRF-SAIAB Biobank in Addressing Conservation and Research Gaps''' - ''Seshnee Pillay''
|
|-
| '''Improving Sample Management at the NHM Biobank''' - ''Heather Avrili''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/y-Tkns02QB-4eBHeHc-iLQ PDF]
|-
| '''Beyond the biobank laboratory, showcasing game capture operation to acquire biological samples''' - ''Nkotasi Mnisi''
|
|-
| '''Biobank for biodiversity: The SANParks Veterinary Wildlife Biobank''' - ''Zinhle Manda''
|
|-
| '''Genomic Infrastructure for Chile: Design and Establishment of a Biobank through the 1000 Chilean Genomes Project''' - ''Juliana Vianna De Abreu''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
| ''11:00 - 11:30''
| ''Tea Break''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
|rowspan="7"|11:30 - 13:00
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 2.2 Biodiversity Rich Regions of the World</h1>'''Chair''' - Puseletso Johnston

This session will explore the complex challenges and ethical dilemmas associated with biobanking in biodiversity-rich regions, with a particular focus on Africa. As one of the most biologically diverse continents, Africa holds vast genetic resources that are vital for scientific research, conservation, and innovation in healthcare and agriculture. However, biobanking in these regions is fraught with challenges, including regulatory gaps, resource constraints, and issues surrounding access, benefit-sharing, and indigenous knowledge protection.
|-
| '''Hidden Biodiversity: Zoos and Aquariums as Gateways to Conservation Science''' - ''Anna Mekarska''
|
|-
| '''Biobanking in Mexico: Current Status & Perspectives''' - ''Gilberto Ocampo''
|
|-
| '''1KSA - Decoding South Africa’s Biodiversity''' - ''Shane Murray''
|
|-
| '''Inventory and sorting of the microbial collections in the Biobank of the Institut Pasteur de Côte d'Ivoire''' - ''Kouame Ambroise Kintossou''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/JYhdMYqlSAGqieXf9KThYQ PDF]
|-
| '''South African Rhizobium Culture Collection a Biobank for Future Food Biosecurity''' - ''Francina Bopape''
|
|-
| '''Saving South Africa’s Seeds: Natures Time Capsules, Preserved for Future Generations''' - ''Victoria Wilman''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
| ''13:00 - 13:45''
| ''Lunch Break - Lunch Talk: Avantor - Sandra Krause''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
|rowspan="6"|13:45 - 15:15
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 2.3 Botanical Biobanking</h1>'''Chair''' - Anurag Dhyani

As global biodiversity faces increasing threats, preserving plant genetic resources has become a critical priority. This session will focus on the essential methods for conserving plant diversity through seed banking, plant DNA and tissue banking, pollen and spore banking, cryopreservation, and the management of living collections. Experts will discuss the latest advancements in these areas, highlighting the importance of proper collection, storage, and management techniques to ensure the long-term viability of plant species. The session will also explore emerging technologies, strategies for sustainability, and the ethical considerations in plant conservation efforts.
|-
| '''Plant & lichen biobanking in central Mexico''' - ''Gilberto Ocampo''
|
|-
| '''Collection of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants of the State University of Campinas – Brazil''' - ''Ilio Montanari''
|
|-
| '''Characterizing Brassica biobanks and pre-breeding in B. juncea for climate resilient oilseed sustainability in India''' - ''Mahesh Rao'
|
|-
| '''Harnessing Indian Mustard B. juncea Diversity using Integrative Omics Approach to Decipher White Rust Disease Resistance''' - ''Ashish Kumar Gupta''
|
|-
| '''Optimizing Plant Biobank Sustainability: Technical and Funding Strategies at the Nottingham Arabidopsis Stock Centre''' - ''Marcos Castellanos-Uribe''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/ehPtac5TRy6PSHGIlU-XiA PDF]
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
| ''15:15 - 15:30''
| ''Tea Break''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
|rowspan="4"|15:30 - 17:30
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 2.4 Special Session: Publication</h1>'''Chair''' - Jonas Astrin

In this mini-session featuring a single talk we will hear, by the editor-inchief, about the Biopreservation and Biobanking (BIO) journal, about its scope and possible article types. While being the official ISBER journal, BIO is open to all kinds of publications with a biobanking and sample preservation context and is a suitable publication medium for manuscripts related to GGBN topics. Opportunities to publish content presented at the current meeting will be specifically highlighted.
|-
| '''Why Publish in Biopreservation and Biobanking?''' - ''Marianna Bledsoe''
|
|-
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 2.5 Poster Seesion</h1>'''Chair''' - Katie Barker

The poster session offers delegates an opportunity to engage with the breadth of research and innovation represented at the Joint Biobanks Conference. All accepted posters will be on display, showcasing work across every thematic track. Attendees are encouraged to review the posters at their own pace, interact directly with authors, and exchange ideas that spark future partnerships. This informal, highly interactive session is designed to highlight diverse perspectives, celebrate achievements, and foster networking across the biobanking community.
|-
| '''GGBN General Assembly Meeting'''
|
|}

= Day 3 – 1 October 2025 =
{|
|width="33%"|
|width="33%"|
|width="33%"|
|-
|rowspan="9"|09:00 - 11:00
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 3.1 Microbial Biobanking</h1>'''Chairs''' - Anita Burger
This session will focus on the biobanking of microbes such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and yeasts sourced from diverse and biodiverse natural environments. Presentations will delve into the purpose and significance of these microbial biobanks, the value they have provided (or aim to provide), and strategies for expanding these collections. Special attention will be given to the unique role of microbial biobanks, particularly in Africa, while addressing the sustainability challenges faced by these often underfunded and resource-limited initiatives.
|-
| '''Streamlining Protocols for the Establishment of a Physical Biobank of Respiratory Viruses in the Philippines''' - ''Maria Terrese Dimamay''
|
|-
| '''Unlocking the Microbial Frontier: The Potential Role of the IMBM Microbial Biobank in Biotechnological Innovation and Capacity Development'' - ''Marla Trindade''
|
|-
| '''African Microbial culture collections and the role that the South African National Collection of Fungi plays''' - ''Adriaana Jacobs''
|
|-
| '''The CMW and CMW-IA culture collections of FABI: A biobank focused on the future''' - ''Nicole van Vuuren''
|
|-
| '''Biobanking for Animal Health''' - ''Juanity van Emmenes''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/VpUOrydCTXKO1tFaoj673w PDF]
|-
| '''The Virus Collection from the Fiocruz Biodiversity and Health Biobank''' - ''Manuela da Silva''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/tBALVmLbTtafRUIhHDqTFw PDF]
|-
| '''ARC Infruitec-Nietvoorbij Yeast and Bacterial Biobank: Safeguarding Microbial Heritage for Industry and Biodiversity''' - ''Justin Hoff''
|
|-
| '''Biodiversity Biobanks SA Yeast culture collection, UFS, and More...''' - ''Adepemi Ogundeji''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
| ''11:00 - 11:30''
| ''Tea Break''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
|rowspan="6"|11:30 - 13:00
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 3.2 Data and Database Challenges</h1>'''Chairs''' - Belen Escobari and Gabi Droege

Modern biobanks, as we understand them today, represent a relatively recent concept. Their establishment in many cases faces challenges such as unknown collection histories, diverse collections requiring interaction with others, institutional development history, and outdated administrative systems. Creating an inventory of collections and migrating corresponding data from one system to another requires establishing a well-defined workflow incorporating best practices. In this section, we aim to discuss experiences encountered while working with collections and suggest potential solutions and/or workarounds to address these challenges.
|-
| '''Field Collections and Data Integration: Challenges and Solutions in Modern Scientific Practice''' - ''Belen Escobari''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/-LqBGgVBR_6UI1Mu4ovbJw PDF]
|-
| '''Evaluation of a Data Model and Workflow for Curation of Biodiversity Biobank Data at SAIAB''' - ''Willem Coetzer''
|
|-
| '''A Fine Kettle of Fish (and Invertebrates): Insights from OceanGenome Legacy’s Migration to Arctos''' - ''Hannah J. Appiah-Madson''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/2kWw8giyRfyuAORaFo31eQ PDF]
|-
| '''A Collection Database (and Much More) From the Global South''' - ''Santiago Ron''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/1QOWiPu3QUiLo4xpsLUYxw PDF]
|-
| '''Sustaining physical collections and biodata resources: shared challenges, reciprocal benefits, and collective value''' - ''Chuck Cook''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
| ''13:00 - 13:45''
| ''Lunch Break''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
|rowspan="3"|13:45 - 15:15
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 3.2 Data and Database Challenges (continued)</h1>'''Chairs''' - Belen Escobari and Gabi Droege
|-
| '''Insights into data standardization and enrichment on the portal level''' - ''Gabi Droege''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/Yk3_aeLkS1W-ngPA-KCimA PDF]
|-
| Open Session - Q&A
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
| ''15:15 - 15:30''
| ''Tea Break''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
|rowspan="5"|15:30 - 17:30
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 3.3 - ABS, Loans and Shipping</h1>'''Chair''' - Heather Avrili

This session will explore the legal, logistical, and ethical complexities of exchanging biological materials globally. Through real-world use cases and expert insights, participants will discuss key challenges and practical solutions related to Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS), material loans, and international shipping.
|-
| '''ABS in practice: Navigating the Nagoya Protocol and Digital Sequence Information''' - ''Melania Muñoz García''
|
|-
|-
| '''How legislations from Brazil, India and South Africa affect new taxonomic descriptions''' - ''Manuela da Silva''
|
|-
|-
| '''Guardianship or Gridlock? Rethinking Access to Biodiversity in South Africa''' - ''Kim Labuschagne''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/IpDLPwwDTa-hOCxf7XS4mA PDF]
|-
|-
| '''Origin, ownership and status of Rose geranium used for essential oils''' - ''Karen Swanepeol''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/um5RlUzjSXiw4zfTT7tUQQ PDF]
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
|18:00 - 20:00
| '''GGBN and ISBER Joint Icebreaker'''
|
|}

= Day 4 – 2 October 2025 =
{|
|width="33%"| 08:00 - 09:00
|width="33%"| Registration
|width="33%"|
|-
| 09:00 - 09:30
|colspan="2"| Welcome and Getting to know ISBER
|
|-
|rowspan="5"|09:30 - 11:00
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 4.1 Best Practices for Biobanking: Standards, Sustainability and Innovation</h1>'''Chairs''' - Elne Conradie, Greg Grossman and Rebecca Pugh
As biobanking continues to evolve, maintaining high standards in sample collection, processing, storage, and data management is critical. This session will focus on best practices that ensure sample integrity, regulatory compliance, and long-term sustainability while addressing emerging technologies, ethical considerations and emergency preparedness planning.
|-
| '''Establishing Biobanks of Patient Leftover Samples from Healthcare Provision in Kenya and Uganda: A Feasibility Study''' - ''Akusa Patrice Mawa''
|
|-
| '''Sustainability by design: Governing for a Sustainable Biobanking Ecosystem'' - ''Ciara Staunton''
|
|-
| '''Handbook on Biodiversity Biobanking Practices available online''' - ''Jonas Astrin''
|[https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/SC9vGDC8SsWYvHXpG28NeA PDF]
|-
| '''Lessons in Excellence and Sustainability from Building a 100,000-Sample Biobank in Africa''' - ''Jumi Popoola''
|[https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/MPyAw1zbRgazcKnluHp1XQ PDF]
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
| ''11:00 - 11:30''
| ''Tea Break''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
|rowspan="5"|11:30 - 13:00
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 4.2 Environmental Contaminant Studies & One Health: Biobanking for a Sustainable Future</h1>'''Chairs''' - Elne Conradie, Greg Grossman and Rebecca Pugh
Current and new/emerging environmental contaminants of concern impact ecosystems, wildlife, and human health, making biobanks essential tools for studying long-term effects of the environment. This session will explore how biological and environmental samples that are systematically archived can contribute to understanding pollutant exposure, antimicrobial resistance, and the broader One Health approach, which links human, animal, and environmental health.
|-
| '''Cradle to Grave: Specimens from the NIST Biorepository Support a One Health Approach''' - ''Rebecca Pugh''
|
|-
| '''Introducing BBMRI-ERIC – the European Research Infrastructure for Biobanking and Biomolecular Resources in the context of One Health''' - ''Jens Haberman''
|
|-
| '''Korean Environmental Specimen Bank: Core Infrastructure for Retrospective Monitoring of Environmental Change''' - ''J Oh''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/Jf_1MVC_SS-x8RhHfbbR8A PDF]
|-
| '''Influence of Storage Temperature on Chemical Substances in Archived Municipal Wastewater and Biosolids Samples''' - ''Sarah Gewurtz''
| [FULL LINK PDF (Login required)]
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
| ''13:00 - 13:45''
| ''Lunch Break - Lunch Talk: Freezerworks- Katie Burkhart''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
|rowspan="7"|13:45 - 15:15
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 4.3 Unlocking the Power of Big Data: Data Management, Integration, and Challenges in Biobanking</h1>'''Chairs''' - Elne Conradie, Greg Grossman and Rebecca Pugh
With the increasing volume and complexity of biobank data, efficient data management and integration have become critical challenges. This session will address strategies for handling big data, improving interoperability, ensuring data security, and maximizing the impact of biobank datasets in research and policy-making.
|-
| '''Harnessing big data and multi-omics integration to advance biobanking for rare disease''' - ''Glen Khumalo''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/mOPUJTmRSS2A6ecpC7A7FA PDF]
|-
| '''Utilizing Multi-OMICS Technologies to Unravel the Molecular Mechanisms of Orphan Diseases in LMIC's''' - ''M Bramble''
|
|-
| '''Unlocking Longitudinal Child Health Insights in South Africa: A Proposal for an Integrated Clinical Data Platform''' - ''Ilse du Preez''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/abBJ79n6SKaht4Z2lvbIaA PDF]
|-
| '''Toward Smarter Biobanks: Leveraging Artificial Intelligence to Bridge the Gap Between Biospecimen Supply and Demand''' - ''Jerome Baudry''
|
|-
| '''AI-Compliant Informed Consent Tokens: Keeping Donors Engaged through Blockchains in the Era of Biobanking 4.0''' - ''Dan Catchpoole''
|
|-
| '''The Alligator Leather of Biobanking: Taming the Big Data Beast''' - ''Hamed Sami Abdelmoneim''
| [add pdf]
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
| ''15:15 - 15:30''
| ''Tea Break''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
|rowspan="7"|15:30 - 17:30
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 4.4 - Accreditation and Credentialing: Pathways to Standardization in Biobanking</h1>'''Chairs''' - Elne Conradie, Greg Grossman and Rebecca Pugh
Standardization and harmonization of biorepository operations are essential forensuring the quality and integrity of biospecimens and associated data. Various accreditation and credentialing programs provide structured frameworks for achieving high operational standards. This session will focus on accreditation programs such as QBRS, ISO, ISBER certifications, and CTERNet, emphasizing their feasibility and implementation in the African region. Experts will discuss best practices, challenges, and strategies for achieving internationally recognized biobank certification.
|-
| '''The Value of accreditation and credentialing in the Biobanking domain''' - ''Vinay Moodley''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/T6L2CO0xSYeHn4bapzO3Gg PDF]
|-
| '''Progress of the Biobanking Accreditation Scheme Working Group, convened under SANAS''' - ''Tumelo Ledimo''
|
|-
| '''Panel discussion and stakeholder engagement on accreditation and credentialing''' - ''Facilitators: Ciara Staunton, Marietjie Botes and members of the MBirSA steering committee''
|
|-
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 4.5 - Special Session: Publication</h1>'''Chair''' - Greg Grossman
In this mini-session featuring a single talk we will hear, by the editor-inchief, about the Biopreservation and Biobanking (BIO) journal, about its scope and possible article types. While being the official ISBER
journal, BIO is open to all kinds of publications with a biobanking and sample preservation context and is a suitable publication medium for manuscripts related to GGBN topics. Opportunities to publish content presented at the current meeting will be specifically highlighted.
|-
| '''Why Publish in Biopreservation and Biobanking?''' - ''Marianna Bledsoe''
|
|-
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 4.5 - Poster Session: Publication</h1>'''Chairs''' - Elne Conradie, Greg Grossman and Rebecca Pugh
The poster session offers delegates an opportunity to engage with the breadth of research and innovation represented at the Joint Biobanks Conference. All accepted posters will be on display, showcasing work across every thematic track. Attendees are encouraged to review the posters at their own pace, interact directly with authors, and exchange ideas that spark future partnerships. This informal, highly interactive session is designed to highlight diverse perspectives, celebrate achievements, and foster networking across the biobanking community.
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
|18:00 - 20:00
| '''The Value of accreditation and credentialing in the Biobanking domain''' - ''Vinay Moodley''
|
|}

=More Conference Information=
[[GGBN Conference 2023]]
{{Special:PrefixIndex/{{#titleparts: {{FULLPAGENAME}} | 1 }}/|stripprefix=1}}
[[category: Meetings]]

GGBN Conference 2025/Program

2025-11-13T14:56:28Z

WikiSysop: /* Day 4 – 2 October 2025 */

== Program ==

'''<span style="color: red; font-size: 18pt;">[https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/90-U0OeUSsGLckcITG-6jg Download GGBN 2025 Program and Abstract Book]</span>'''

'''<span style="color: red;">Most of the presentations are now available through the GGBN Document Library as open access docs, some are available in the library only. Links are provided below. Presentations with restricted access can be located on the Document Library under the Category “GGBN Conferences,” Subcategory “GGBN 2025 Conference". Please contact library@ggbn.org to request a library account.</span>'''

= Day 1 – 29 September 2025 =

{|
|width="33%"| (times to be confirmed)
|width="33%"| Excursion to Boulders Beach
|width="33%"|
|-
| ''18:00 - 29:00''
| ''GGBN Ice Breaker''
|
|}
= Day 2 – 30 September 2025 =
{|
|width="33%"| 08:00 - 08:45
|width="33%"| ''Registration opens''
|width="33%"|
|-
| 08:45 - 09:00
| '''Welcome by SANBI Management'''
|-
| 09:00 - 09:30
| '''Keynote Address: The Global Biodiversity Framework as a Context for Sustainable Biodiversity Biobanks in South Africa''' - ''Prof. Michelle Hamer''
|-
|rowspan="12"|09:30 - 11:00
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 2.1 Lightning Talks for Participating Biobanks</h1>'''Chairs''' - Katie Barker and Jonas Astrin

This session provides participants the opportunity to share information on theirbiobanks / molecular collections, including facilities and infrastructure,interoperability, address issues related to long-term sustainability, address challenges around sample and data quality. Use cases can be presented, or experiences shared about biobank planning, repository relocation, etc. For this conference, African biobanks are particularly encouraged to introduce themselves, but of course any biobank is welcome.
|-
| '''Biobanking for Biodiversity: Processes, Access, and Applications''' - ''Francinah Keneilwe Mosupye''
|
|-
| '''Coral Hospitals as Biobanking Centers: Insights from the NMMBA Model as a Strategic Response to Global Warming and Climate Change''' - ''Chiahsin Lin''
|
|-
| '''ARC-Vegetable, Industrial and Medicinal Plant in Vitro and Seed Genebank Collections: Safeguarding Crop Diversity''' - ''Lindiwe Mokgakane''
|
|-
| '''Safeguarding citrus diversity''' - ''Elize Jooste''
|
|-
| '''Building plant repositories for biodiversity research and conservation. A case of Tooro Botanical Gardens, Uganda''' - ''Mutegeki Alislam Said Musa''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/yCu2-n4-RdmQsZIYcH7xXQ PDF]
|-
| '''A review of biobanking activities for plant biodiversity in Rwanda''' - ''Pascal Sibomana''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/ZZTvrfKRTe6NvvZMEtL7eQ PDF]
|-
| '''Preserving Aquatic Biodiversity: The Role of the NRF-SAIAB Biobank in Addressing Conservation and Research Gaps''' - ''Seshnee Pillay''
|
|-
| '''Improving Sample Management at the NHM Biobank''' - ''Heather Avrili''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/y-Tkns02QB-4eBHeHc-iLQ PDF]
|-
| '''Beyond the biobank laboratory, showcasing game capture operation to acquire biological samples''' - ''Nkotasi Mnisi''
|
|-
| '''Biobank for biodiversity: The SANParks Veterinary Wildlife Biobank''' - ''Zinhle Manda''
|
|-
| '''Genomic Infrastructure for Chile: Design and Establishment of a Biobank through the 1000 Chilean Genomes Project''' - ''Juliana Vianna De Abreu''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
| ''11:00 - 11:30''
| ''Tea Break''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
|rowspan="7"|11:30 - 13:00
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 2.2 Biodiversity Rich Regions of the World</h1>'''Chair''' - Puseletso Johnston

This session will explore the complex challenges and ethical dilemmas associated with biobanking in biodiversity-rich regions, with a particular focus on Africa. As one of the most biologically diverse continents, Africa holds vast genetic resources that are vital for scientific research, conservation, and innovation in healthcare and agriculture. However, biobanking in these regions is fraught with challenges, including regulatory gaps, resource constraints, and issues surrounding access, benefit-sharing, and indigenous knowledge protection.
|-
| '''Hidden Biodiversity: Zoos and Aquariums as Gateways to Conservation Science''' - ''Anna Mekarska''
|
|-
| '''Biobanking in Mexico: Current Status & Perspectives''' - ''Gilberto Ocampo''
|
|-
| '''1KSA - Decoding South Africa’s Biodiversity''' - ''Shane Murray''
|
|-
| '''Inventory and sorting of the microbial collections in the Biobank of the Institut Pasteur de Côte d'Ivoire''' - ''Kouame Ambroise Kintossou''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/JYhdMYqlSAGqieXf9KThYQ PDF]
|-
| '''South African Rhizobium Culture Collection a Biobank for Future Food Biosecurity''' - ''Francina Bopape''
|
|-
| '''Saving South Africa’s Seeds: Natures Time Capsules, Preserved for Future Generations''' - ''Victoria Wilman''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
| ''13:00 - 13:45''
| ''Lunch Break - Lunch Talk: Avantor - Sandra Krause''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
|rowspan="6"|13:45 - 15:15
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 2.3 Botanical Biobanking</h1>'''Chair''' - Anurag Dhyani

As global biodiversity faces increasing threats, preserving plant genetic resources has become a critical priority. This session will focus on the essential methods for conserving plant diversity through seed banking, plant DNA and tissue banking, pollen and spore banking, cryopreservation, and the management of living collections. Experts will discuss the latest advancements in these areas, highlighting the importance of proper collection, storage, and management techniques to ensure the long-term viability of plant species. The session will also explore emerging technologies, strategies for sustainability, and the ethical considerations in plant conservation efforts.
|-
| '''Plant & lichen biobanking in central Mexico''' - ''Gilberto Ocampo''
|
|-
| '''Collection of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants of the State University of Campinas – Brazil''' - ''Ilio Montanari''
|
|-
| '''Characterizing Brassica biobanks and pre-breeding in B. juncea for climate resilient oilseed sustainability in India''' - ''Mahesh Rao'
|
|-
| '''Harnessing Indian Mustard B. juncea Diversity using Integrative Omics Approach to Decipher White Rust Disease Resistance''' - ''Ashish Kumar Gupta''
|
|-
| '''Optimizing Plant Biobank Sustainability: Technical and Funding Strategies at the Nottingham Arabidopsis Stock Centre''' - ''Marcos Castellanos-Uribe''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/ehPtac5TRy6PSHGIlU-XiA PDF]
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
| ''15:15 - 15:30''
| ''Tea Break''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
|rowspan="4"|15:30 - 17:30
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 2.4 Special Session: Publication</h1>'''Chair''' - Jonas Astrin

In this mini-session featuring a single talk we will hear, by the editor-inchief, about the Biopreservation and Biobanking (BIO) journal, about its scope and possible article types. While being the official ISBER journal, BIO is open to all kinds of publications with a biobanking and sample preservation context and is a suitable publication medium for manuscripts related to GGBN topics. Opportunities to publish content presented at the current meeting will be specifically highlighted.
|-
| '''Why Publish in Biopreservation and Biobanking?''' - ''Marianna Bledsoe''
|
|-
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 2.5 Poster Seesion</h1>'''Chair''' - Katie Barker

The poster session offers delegates an opportunity to engage with the breadth of research and innovation represented at the Joint Biobanks Conference. All accepted posters will be on display, showcasing work across every thematic track. Attendees are encouraged to review the posters at their own pace, interact directly with authors, and exchange ideas that spark future partnerships. This informal, highly interactive session is designed to highlight diverse perspectives, celebrate achievements, and foster networking across the biobanking community.
|-
| '''GGBN General Assembly Meeting'''
|
|}

= Day 3 – 1 October 2025 =
{|
|width="33%"|
|width="33%"|
|width="33%"|
|-
|rowspan="9"|09:00 - 11:00
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 3.1 Microbial Biobanking</h1>'''Chairs''' - Anita Burger
This session will focus on the biobanking of microbes such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and yeasts sourced from diverse and biodiverse natural environments. Presentations will delve into the purpose and significance of these microbial biobanks, the value they have provided (or aim to provide), and strategies for expanding these collections. Special attention will be given to the unique role of microbial biobanks, particularly in Africa, while addressing the sustainability challenges faced by these often underfunded and resource-limited initiatives.
|-
| '''Streamlining Protocols for the Establishment of a Physical Biobank of Respiratory Viruses in the Philippines''' - ''Maria Terrese Dimamay''
|
|-
| '''Unlocking the Microbial Frontier: The Potential Role of the IMBM Microbial Biobank in Biotechnological Innovation and Capacity Development'' - ''Marla Trindade''
|
|-
| '''African Microbial culture collections and the role that the South African National Collection of Fungi plays''' - ''Adriaana Jacobs''
|
|-
| '''The CMW and CMW-IA culture collections of FABI: A biobank focused on the future''' - ''Nicole van Vuuren''
|
|-
| '''Biobanking for Animal Health''' - ''Juanity van Emmenes''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/VpUOrydCTXKO1tFaoj673w PDF]
|-
| '''The Virus Collection from the Fiocruz Biodiversity and Health Biobank''' - ''Manuela da Silva''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/tBALVmLbTtafRUIhHDqTFw PDF]
|-
| '''ARC Infruitec-Nietvoorbij Yeast and Bacterial Biobank: Safeguarding Microbial Heritage for Industry and Biodiversity''' - ''Justin Hoff''
|
|-
| '''Biodiversity Biobanks SA Yeast culture collection, UFS, and More...''' - ''Adepemi Ogundeji''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
| ''11:00 - 11:30''
| ''Tea Break''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
|rowspan="6"|11:30 - 13:00
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 3.2 Data and Database Challenges</h1>'''Chairs''' - Belen Escobari and Gabi Droege

Modern biobanks, as we understand them today, represent a relatively recent concept. Their establishment in many cases faces challenges such as unknown collection histories, diverse collections requiring interaction with others, institutional development history, and outdated administrative systems. Creating an inventory of collections and migrating corresponding data from one system to another requires establishing a well-defined workflow incorporating best practices. In this section, we aim to discuss experiences encountered while working with collections and suggest potential solutions and/or workarounds to address these challenges.
|-
| '''Field Collections and Data Integration: Challenges and Solutions in Modern Scientific Practice''' - ''Belen Escobari''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/-LqBGgVBR_6UI1Mu4ovbJw PDF]
|-
| '''Evaluation of a Data Model and Workflow for Curation of Biodiversity Biobank Data at SAIAB''' - ''Willem Coetzer''
|
|-
| '''A Fine Kettle of Fish (and Invertebrates): Insights from OceanGenome Legacy’s Migration to Arctos''' - ''Hannah J. Appiah-Madson''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/2kWw8giyRfyuAORaFo31eQ PDF]
|-
| '''A Collection Database (and Much More) From the Global South''' - ''Santiago Ron''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/1QOWiPu3QUiLo4xpsLUYxw PDF]
|-
| '''Sustaining physical collections and biodata resources: shared challenges, reciprocal benefits, and collective value''' - ''Chuck Cook''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
| ''13:00 - 13:45''
| ''Lunch Break''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
|rowspan="3"|13:45 - 15:15
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 3.2 Data and Database Challenges (continued)</h1>'''Chairs''' - Belen Escobari and Gabi Droege
|-
| '''Insights into data standardization and enrichment on the portal level''' - ''Gabi Droege''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/Yk3_aeLkS1W-ngPA-KCimA PDF]
|-
| Open Session - Q&A
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
| ''15:15 - 15:30''
| ''Tea Break''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
|rowspan="5"|15:30 - 17:30
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 3.3 - ABS, Loans and Shipping</h1>'''Chair''' - Heather Avrili

This session will explore the legal, logistical, and ethical complexities of exchanging biological materials globally. Through real-world use cases and expert insights, participants will discuss key challenges and practical solutions related to Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS), material loans, and international shipping.
|-
| '''ABS in practice: Navigating the Nagoya Protocol and Digital Sequence Information''' - ''Melania Muñoz García''
|
|-
|-
| '''How legislations from Brazil, India and South Africa affect new taxonomic descriptions''' - ''Manuela da Silva''
|
|-
|-
| '''Guardianship or Gridlock? Rethinking Access to Biodiversity in South Africa''' - ''Kim Labuschagne''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/IpDLPwwDTa-hOCxf7XS4mA PDF]
|-
|-
| '''Origin, ownership and status of Rose geranium used for essential oils''' - ''Karen Swanepeol''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/um5RlUzjSXiw4zfTT7tUQQ PDF]
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
|18:00 - 20:00
| '''GGBN and ISBER Joint Icebreaker'''
|
|}

= Day 4 – 2 October 2025 =
{|
|width="33%"| 08:00 - 09:00
|width="33%"| Registration
|width="33%"|
|-
| 09:00 - 09:30
|colspan="2"| Welcome and Getting to know ISBER
|
|-
|rowspan="5"|09:30 - 11:00
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 4.1 Best Practices for Biobanking: Standards, Sustainability and Innovation</h1>'''Chairs''' - Elne Conradie, Greg Grossman and Rebecca Pugh
As biobanking continues to evolve, maintaining high standards in sample collection, processing, storage, and data management is critical. This session will focus on best practices that ensure sample integrity, regulatory compliance, and long-term sustainability while addressing emerging technologies, ethical considerations and emergency preparedness planning.
|-
| '''Establishing Biobanks of Patient Leftover Samples from Healthcare Provision in Kenya and Uganda: A Feasibility Study''' - ''Akusa Patrice Mawa''
|
|-
| '''Sustainability by design: Governing for a Sustainable Biobanking Ecosystem'' - ''Ciara Staunton''
|
|-
| '''Handbook on Biodiversity Biobanking Practices available online''' - ''Jonas Astrin''
|[https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/SC9vGDC8SsWYvHXpG28NeA PDF]
|-
| '''Lessons in Excellence and Sustainability from Building a 100,000-Sample Biobank in Africa''' - ''Jumi Popoola''
|[https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/MPyAw1zbRgazcKnluHp1XQ PDF]
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
| ''11:00 - 11:30''
| ''Tea Break''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
|rowspan="5"|11:30 - 13:00
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 4.2 Environmental Contaminant Studies & One Health: Biobanking for a Sustainable Future</h1>'''Chairs''' - Elne Conradie, Greg Grossman and Rebecca Pugh
Current and new/emerging environmental contaminants of concern impact ecosystems, wildlife, and human health, making biobanks essential tools for studying long-term effects of the environment. This session will explore how biological and environmental samples that are systematically archived can contribute to understanding pollutant exposure, antimicrobial resistance, and the broader One Health approach, which links human, animal, and environmental health.
|-
| '''Cradle to Grave: Specimens from the NIST Biorepository Support a One Health Approach''' - ''Rebecca Pugh''
|
|-
| '''Introducing BBMRI-ERIC – the European Research Infrastructure for Biobanking and Biomolecular Resources in the context of One Health''' - ''Jens Haberman''
|
|-
| '''Korean Environmental Specimen Bank: Core Infrastructure for Retrospective Monitoring of Environmental Change''' - ''J Oh''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/Jf_1MVC_SS-x8RhHfbbR8A PDF]
|-
| '''Influence of Storage Temperature on Chemical Substances in Archived Municipal Wastewater and Biosolids Samples''' - ''Sarah Gewurtz''
| [FULL LINK PDF (Login required)]
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
| ''13:00 - 13:45''
| ''Lunch Break - Lunch Talk: Freezerworks- Katie Burkhart''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
|rowspan="7"|13:45 - 15:15
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 4.3 Unlocking the Power of Big Data: Data Management, Integration, and Challenges in Biobanking</h1>'''Chairs''' - Elne Conradie, Greg Grossman and Rebecca Pugh
With the increasing volume and complexity of biobank data, efficient data management and integration have become critical challenges. This session will address strategies for handling big data, improving interoperability, ensuring data security, and maximizing the impact of biobank datasets in research and policy-making.
|-
| '''Harnessing big data and multi-omics integration to advance biobanking for rare disease''' - ''Glen Khumalo''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/mOPUJTmRSS2A6ecpC7A7FA PDF]
|-
| '''Utilizing Multi-OMICS Technologies to Unravel the Molecular Mechanisms of Orphan Diseases in LMIC's''' - ''M Bramble''
|
|-
| '''Unlocking Longitudinal Child Health Insights in South Africa: A Proposal for an Integrated Clinical Data Platform''' - ''Ilse du Preez''
| [https://library.ggbn.org/share/s/abBJ79n6SKaht4Z2lvbIaA PDF]
|-
| '''Toward Smarter Biobanks: Leveraging Artificial Intelligence to Bridge the Gap Between Biospecimen Supply and Demand''' - ''Jerome Baudry''
|
|-
| '''AI-Compliant Informed Consent Tokens: Keeping Donors Engaged through Blockchains in the Era of Biobanking 4.0''' - ''Dan Catchpoole''
|
|-
| '''The Alligator Leather of Biobanking: Taming the Big Data Beast''' - ''Hamed Sami Abdelmoneim''
| [add pdf]
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
| ''15:15 - 15:30''
| ''Tea Break''
|
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
|rowspan="7"|15:30 - 17:30
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 4.4 - Accreditation and Credentialing: Pathways to Standardization in Biobanking</h1>'''Chairs''' - Elne Conradie, Greg Grossman and Rebecca Pugh
Standardization and harmonization of biorepository operations are essential forensuring the quality and integrity of biospecimens and associated data. Various accreditation and credentialing programs provide structured frameworks for achieving high operational standards. This session will focus on accreditation programs such as QBRS, ISO, ISBER certifications, and CTERNet, emphasizing their feasibility and implementation in the African region. Experts will discuss best practices, challenges, and strategies for achieving internationally recognized biobank certification.
|-
| '''The Value of accreditation and credentialing in the Biobanking domain''' - ''Vinay Moodley''
| [add pdf]
|-
| '''Progress of the Biobanking Accreditation Scheme Working Group, convened under SANAS''' - ''Tumelo Ledimo''
|
|-
| '''Panel discussion and stakeholder engagement on accreditation and credentialing''' - ''Facilitators: Ciara Staunton, Marietjie Botes and members of the MBirSA steering committee''
|
|-
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 4.5 - Special Session: Publication</h1>'''Chair''' - Greg Grossman
In this mini-session featuring a single talk we will hear, by the editor-inchief, about the Biopreservation and Biobanking (BIO) journal, about its scope and possible article types. While being the official ISBER
journal, BIO is open to all kinds of publications with a biobanking and sample preservation context and is a suitable publication medium for manuscripts related to GGBN topics. Opportunities to publish content presented at the current meeting will be specifically highlighted.
|-
| '''Why Publish in Biopreservation and Biobanking?''' - ''Marianna Bledsoe''
|
|-
|colspan="2"|<h1>Session 4.5 - Poster Session: Publication</h1>'''Chairs''' - Elne Conradie, Greg Grossman and Rebecca Pugh
The poster session offers delegates an opportunity to engage with the breadth of research and innovation represented at the Joint Biobanks Conference. All accepted posters will be on display, showcasing work across every thematic track. Attendees are encouraged to review the posters at their own pace, interact directly with authors, and exchange ideas that spark future partnerships. This informal, highly interactive session is designed to highlight diverse perspectives, celebrate achievements, and foster networking across the biobanking community.
|-
|colspan="3"|<hr/>
|-
|18:00 - 20:00
| '''The Value of accreditation and credentialing in the Biobanking domain''' - ''Vinay Moodley''
|
|}

=More Conference Information=
[[GGBN Conference 2023]]
{{Special:PrefixIndex/{{#titleparts: {{FULLPAGENAME}} | 1 }}/|stripprefix=1}}
[[category: Meetings]]