Specimen Procurement (BioNet)

Biological Materials Procurement Network (BioNet) prospectively procures high-quality human research specimens while ensuring patient care and confidentiality

Created in 1996, BioNet is the only IRB-approved, centralized specimen procurement program at the University of Minnesota. The mission of BioNet is to prospectively collect high-quality human research specimens while prioritizing patient care and confidentiality. BioNet works hand-in-hand with the University of Minnesota Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology to:

• Oversee the transport of specimens from the OR directly to Surgical Pathology
• Ensure specimens are properly documented for research after diagnostic needs are met
• Process specimens in a high-quality, consistent manner for researchers

Services Provided

• Patient chart review
• Case identification
• Informed consent
• 24/7 tissue procurement
• Procurement of bodily fluids including blood, urine, and saliva
• Custom processing according to standard operating procedures
• Specimen documentation, de-identification, and release

Location

BioNet operations currently cover three medical centers: University of Minnesota Medical Center (UMMC), Fairview Riverside Hospital, and 
M Health Clinics and Surgery Center (CSC). Most specimen processing takes place in the Surgical Pathology Gross Room located in Room 3-423, Unit J of the UMMC Hospital. This room is adjacent to the operating rooms and is ideal for the rapid retrieval of tissue from the patients. BioNet staff offices are located in C338 Mayo Building.