Implementation of biobanking modules in the education of medical students and residents

Aim. To examine the specifics of implementing biobanking educational modules based on rotation cycles in the laboratories of the Dedov National Medical Research Center of Endocrinology for first- and second-year Endocrinology and Pediatric Endocrinology residents, as well as based on an additional extracurricular module on biobanking at the Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University.

Material and methods. This retrospective study was conducted at two sites. At the Dedov National Medical Research Center of Endocrinology, the results of the Biobank module within a laboratory rotation for 75 first- and second-year residents (specializing in Endocrinology and Pe­diatric Endocrinology) in 2023-2025, were analyzed. At the Pirogov Rus­sian National Research Medical University, the motivation and learning results of 19 first-year students who chose the additional Fun­damentals of Biobanking module were studied. Survey methods, project analysis, and statistical methods for processing analytical data were used.

Results. A low baseline level of biobanking awareness was found in both groups. After completing the module, 100% of participants ex­pres­sed a neutral or positive attitude toward biobanking. Following key mo­ti­va­tional factors were identified: for residents, career prospects (34,7% of those who completed the module were admitted to post­gra­duate education) and earning additional credits; for students, personal inte­rest in new technologies (89%) and the opportunity to visit an opera­ting biobank. The short-term modular format proved to be very effec­tive for initial immersion in biobanking.

Conclusion. The implementation of short-term educational modu­les on biobanking is an effective tool for raising awareness and foste­ring a positive attitude toward biobanks among future medical profes­sio­nals. Successful implementation depends on target audience specifics. For residents, the emphasis should be on practical and career-­oriented components, while for students — on innovation and interdisciplinarity. The data obtained substantiate the need for further integration of bio­banking principles into continuing medical education programs.

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