Human Biology Facility

Stem cells

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The Human Biology Facility (HBF) supports cutting-edge biomedical research that involves human participants, materials and data.

As a leading scientific research institution, the Crick is committed to advancing our understanding of human biology and disease, and the HBF plays a critical role in ensuring that this research is carried out in compliance with the highest ethical, legal and regulatory standards.

The HBF operates through two main streams.

Human Research Governance

Our Human Research Governance team focuses on providing essential guidance and support to Crick researchers working with human participants. It ensures that all research using human material, data and participants is conducted in compliance with national and international ethical standards, as well as relevant legislation. The team assist researchers in navigating the complexities of obtaining ethical approvals, adhering to data protection laws, and maintaining transparency and accountability throughout the research process.

Key services include:

  • Ethical review, approval processes and guidance
  • HTA audits
  • Guidance on data protection and privacy requirements
  • Monitoring and reporting on research activities to ensure compliance
  • Assistance identifying and navigating routes to access human samples
  • Networks though Biobanks and NHS
  • Training in the ethical and compliant handling of human materials

At the Human Biology Facility, our primary aim is to support Crick researchers by helping them navigate the complex compliance and regulatory landscape associated with working with human participants, materials, and data. Whether it's ensuring proper ethical approvals, maintaining participant confidentiality, or adhering to the latest regulations on human sample handling, we are here to guide our research community every step of the way.

By ensuring that all research is conducted ethically, responsibly, and in accordance with established guidelines, we strive to maintain the trust of the public and contribute to the integrity of scientific progress.

Human Models Core

The Human Models Core is dedicated to supporting research that uses human-derived materials, including cell lines, tissues and organoids. This stream provides technical expertise and resources for researchers developing and working with human models to study various diseases, particularly complex human conditions such as cancer, neurological disorders and infectious diseases.

Services offered by the Human Models Core include:

  • Production of hiPSC lines using mRNA and Sendai virus reprogramming
  • Access to Crick hiPSC cell lines
  • Generation of human-derived model systems
  • Support, advice and training on human-derived model systems
  • Expert advice on experimental design and methodology
  • Gene editing support of hiPSC lines
  • Virus production and plasmid construction

Our commitment to ethical research

The Human Biology Facility is built on the foundation of ethical research practices. We are dedicated to fostering an environment where the welfare of human participants is always at the forefront, and where researchers can focus on innovative discoveries while being assured that their work meets the highest ethical and regulatory standards. Read more about our research integrity.