On 10 July, the Science Café discussion “Let’s Talk About Biobanks?!” took place as part of the LAMPA Conversation Festival programme at the AURORA NEXUS FM and Radio NABA studio. Vita Rovīte and Jānis Kloviņš participated in the discussion.
The discussion focused on the role of biobanks in modern medicine and research, their future in Latvia, building public trust, data security, and the responsible use of biological samples and related data.
Biobanks provide secure storage for biological samples and associated data, enabling researchers to better understand the causes of diseases, develop new diagnostic and treatment methods, and advance personalised medicine. They are an essential tool for making healthcare more precise, effective, and sustainable.
Public trust in biobanks, data security, and the responsible use of biological samples and related data were among the key topics of the discussion. The conversation also addressed Latvia’s scientific potential and the possible contribution of biobanks to improving patient outcomes and strengthening the healthcare system as a whole.
The event also highlighted the importance of cooperation between science, healthcare, policymakers, and society, as well as the role of open communication and public engagement in developing a sustainable biobank system in Latvia.
The discussion takes place at the “Aurora Nexus FM” during the LAMPA Conversation Festival as part of the University of Latvia project “Aurora Nexus: Connecting People, Science & Art”, funded by the European Commission under the “MSCA and Citizens – European Researchers’ Night and Researchers at Schools 2026–2027” programme.
The National Research and Innovation Institute is the coordinator of the BBMRI-Latvia national biobank network and implements Latvia’s national partnership plan within BBMRI-ERIC. This is one of the target indicators of Project No. 1.1.1.5/3/24/I/006, “Developing Latvia’s Research Potential by Strengthening the Integration of the Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre into European Infrastructures and Scientific Networks”, co-funded by the European Union.
Information published 13.07.2026