Anyone who works with human samples in research at Imperial College, whether under an HTA licence or a ‘recognised’ REC approval, must undertake training on the Human Tissue Act and its related codes of practice.

This is required by Imperial College and builds upon the Human Tissue Authority’s prerequisite that people working under the governance of an HTA licence are suitably qualified and have been trained in techniques relevant to their work as well as are continuously updating their skills.

In addition, staff working with HTA licence 12275 collections outside of the Division of Cancer, are required to complete HTA training.

  • Training must be included in induction programmes for new staff, be documented, kept up-to-date, and competency assessed and maintained – including short-term, visiting staff and students.
  • Training must be completed before starting work with human samples and updated every two years.
  • The chief or principal investigator is responsible for ensuring that they, all their staff, and any students in their research group are appropriately trained for their role and that proof of completion is available for auditing purposes. To check arrangements for individual HTA licences and departments contact your person designated or departmental contact.

 

If you are using samples under a valid recognised REC approval you are responsible to read and understand the REC application, approval and any amendments. Please note the REC number, the title of the study as well as the expiry date and make sure the storage locations are labelled accordingly. 

Training Courses