Biobank Norway strengthened through a One Health initiative

“For the first time, veterinary biobanks will be integrated into the national biobank infrastructure, Biobank Norway. This creates new opportunities to connect data and samples across sectors and strengthens Norway’s ability to address challenges related to zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance and future health crises from a One Health perspective,” says Øivind Øines, who leads the One Health Biobanking work package. 

Through Biobank Norway 5 (BN5), the infrastructure will better facilitate research that combines expertise from human health, veterinary and life science disciplines. 

A new direction for Biobank Norway 

Since 2011, Biobank Norway has been building Norway’s national infrastructure for biological samples and health data. The initiative is now expanding to include the One Health approach, which recognises the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. 

The Norwegian Veterinary Institute has been given responsibility for the work package “One Health Biobanking.” This work package will map relevant biological collections and stakeholders, harmonise protocols, and develop networks that strengthen collaboration among research institutions, authorities and other stakeholders, both nationally and internationally. 

The work builds on the institute’s expertise in zoonoses, microbiology, antimicrobial resistance, biosafety and biobanking. Through BN5, the Norwegian Veterinary Institute’s experience collecting, managing, and providing access to biological samples from animals, food, and the environment will strengthen Norway’s research and preparedness infrastructure. 

A key objective is to make biological collections and animal health data more visible, accessible and reusable. 

“Storing samples and data is resource-intensive. Access to collaborative platforms and resources like these is therefore essential to unlock the full potential of biobanking. In addition, BN5 provides the continuity and long-term perspective that are crucial for addressing highly complex research challenges,” says Kristin Sæbø Pettersen, Biobank Coordinator at the Norwegian Veterinary Institute. 

Strengthening research, preparedness and international collaboration 

BN5 is closely linked to BBMRI-ERIC, the European research infrastructure for biobanking and biomolecular resources. The project will help position Norway within the development of future biobanks and health data ecosystems.