“It is bad because it limits capacity building here back at home”Genetic and genomic researchers’ perspectives on biological sample sharing in collaborative research

Abstract

AbstractNumerous ethical, legal and social issues arise with biological sample sharing. The study explored the perspectives of genetic/genomic researchers on the sharing of biological samples in international collaborative research. Qualitative in-depth interviews were conducted with 15 researchers. Participants expressed positive attitudes towards biobanking and appreciated the benefits of cross-border sharing of biological samples but noted that this practice had adversely affected local capacity building efforts. There was limited understanding of the ethico-regulatory frameworks governing sample sharing. Researchers emphasized the importance of respecting cultural values in biobanking research. Issues concerning poor governance and inequitable benefit sharing were also raised. There is a need for fair and equitable international collaborations where all researchers are treated with respect and as equal partners.