The Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI), in conjunction with the Biomedical Informatics Core (BMIC) and the CTRC, have recently implemented the OpenSpecimen Biospecimen Management System. This system improves operations at the CTRC by allowing the CTRC to automate and track samples as they are processed at the lab. OpenSpecimen also allows lab users to track the location and status of their samples from drop-off at the CTRC to sample storage or pickup!
All users requesting CTRC services now must have an OpenSpecimen (OS) User account.
- If you do not yet have an OS user account, the CTRC staff will create a user account for you when you initially request CTRC services as part of setting up a project.
- If you are a new coordinator for a study already using CTRC services, you will need to submit a request to the BMIC Service Desk for an OS User account.
Requesting CTRC Services - Processing or Sample Storage
All users must first register their projects / study in ProTrackS. Please visit the ProTrackS page to register your study, request CTRC services and obtain a CTSI ID.
The CTRC team will automatically be notified of your registration and will connect with you to provide an estimate of services and to gather the pre-requisite billing information. Once your project registration is complete, you will be ready to submit samples to the CTRC.
Using CTRC’s Services
The specific processes for "Dropping Off" and "Picking Up" samples differs slightly depending upon whether your lab uses OpenSpecimen to manage samples or not.
When you arrive at the CTRC to drop off your samples processing or long-term storage, you must log into the OpenSpecimen using your UNID and campus-wide password.
Dropping Samples Off at the CTRC
- For labs using OpenSpecimen:
- For labs NOT using OpenSpecimen to manage their samples:
Similar to our REDCap Knowledge Articles, the BMIC develops and maintains OpenSpecimen User Guides as well as a Canvas OpenSpecimen 101 Course available at no cost. We encourage you to use these resources!