Since 2006, HRS has collected biosamples from study participants. Specimens include dried blood spots (DBS) and salivary DNA, as well as venous blood beginning in 2016. These samples represent a valuable but limited scientific resource to conduct assays on a large, diverse, nationally representative sample with rich multidisciplinary panel data.
A limited amount of this repository is now available to external researchers. HRS is allocating one-half milliliter (0.5mL) of serum and one-half milliliter (0.5mL) of plasma, as well as up to 10 micrograms (10ug) of venous blood DNA, beginning with the 2024 venous blood collection, for use by external researchers.
In addition, HRS will consider requests to access the DBS and salivary DNA we have in storage as well as up to 0.5mL of serum, 0.5mL of plasma, and 10ug of venous blood DNA from the 2016-2022 venous blood collections.
To ensure that this unique data resource is most effectively used, HRS has implemented the application process detailed below. Please review the Eligibility Requirements and Use Policies and Available Biosamples pages before submitting your application.
| Application Deadline | HRS Review Team Review Decision |
|---|---|
| May 1 | June 15 |
| November 1 | December 15 |
Projects must have HRS approval before applying for funding.
Application Process
Step 1. Submit Application
Submit the HRS Biosample Request Application form to apply for access to HRS biosamples. If you have not already done so, you will need to create a website account.
The following information and documentation will be required:
- Description of the proposed study
- Description of how the proposed study aligns with the goals of the HRS
- Source of expected or secured funding
- Acknowledgment that this is non-profit research use
- Acknowledgment that you agree to provide HRS with all data derived from the biosamples
- Specification as to how many and what type of samples and aliquots are needed
- Details about whether specialized equipment or skills are required that would necessitate the study be conducted outside of HRS facilities (the ARDL at the University of Minnesota)
- Description of planned data outputs
- Preliminary budget and budget justification
- NIH biosketches for all participating investigators
Step 2: Application Review
Applications will be reviewed by HRS twice yearly, and notice given by June 15th and December 15th, using the following criteria:
Significance: Does the proposed use of HRS biosamples support multidisciplinary research on aging, enhance generalizability, and address the causes of inequalities in health and well-being? Does this study enhance or complement existing biological data in the HRS? Preference is assigned to projects that use the full eligible HRS sample to assay demonstrably reliable measures over those that propose assay development or discovery work.
Approach: Why are the proposed samples most suited for addressing this study’s research question? How would samples be used efficiently to maximize scientific return on investment? Has the proposed method of measurement been validated in humans and is it reliably measured? What quality control processes will be conducted to ensure the integrity of data collection and research findings?
Investigators: Are the investigators appropriately trained and well-suited to carry out the proposed work?
Environment: If the project requires the study be conducted externally (i.e., not in HRS facilities), how will samples be stored and maintained to ensure optimal sample condition? How will privacy be maintained for HRS participants?
Data sharing and management plan: What data from this study will be shared with the HRS research community?
Step 3: HRS Approval
Approved applications will receive a notice of acceptance and a letter of support, if requested.
Step 4: Apply for Funding
After your application is approved by HRS, you can apply for funding. If your funding is approved, the Project Implementation page details the next steps for approved applications.