Researcher Training Courses

Researchers can access UK Biobank data via UKB-RAP after completing the required training.

Step 1: Complete the MRC course: “Research, GDPR & Confidentiality”

To start a project on the UK Biobank Research Analysis Platform (UKB-RAP), you first need to provide evidence that you have completed the Medical Research Council (MRC) MRC course: “Research, GDPR & Confidentiality”, and uploaded the test completion certificate to your AMS account and must have been completed within the last 12 months.

The MRC course consists of 10 short video modules on various aspects of GDPR data security, including identifiable data, data sharing, and safeguards.

To complete the course, you must pass a 10-question multiple-choice quiz with a score of 70% or higher. Your certificate should look like this:

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Steps to upload your certificate:

• Log in to your AMS account
• Select 'Profile'
• Scroll down to 'Upload MRC certificate'
• Select the blue 'Browse' button to the right
• Upload your certificate in PDF format

The MRC are not involved with the UK Biobank Research Analysis Platform (UKB-RAP) and completed certificates should not be forwarded to them. Please contact us with any questions. 

We then ask you to complete two further mandatory courses. Both courses require you to pass a multiple choice, online test with a pass rate of 80%. Your AMS profile will be updated after you complete the tests.

Step 2: Complete the course "Introduction to using UK Biobank"

This course introduces the data types and resources available and the process for gaining access. You will also learn about your responsibilities as a researcher. It is delivered by Lauren Carson, PhD, Head of Research Development, UK Biobank.

Step 3: Complete the course "Introduction to the UK Biobank Research Analysis Platform"

This course will guide you on how to start analysing data, choose your tools, and balance speed and cost. It is delivered by George Foody PhD, Bioinformatician, UK Biobank.

Step 4: Complete two short tests

Once you have completed these training sessions, please  log in to your Access Management System (AMS) profile page to access the tests. There are two multiple choice tests and you must achieve 80% to gain access to the data. Once completed, your Access Management System (AMS) profile will be updated.

Once all steps are completed, we will update your AMS profile for you the next working day.

Would you like to suggest a future training topic?

If there are any topics you would like UK Biobank to cover, we would love to hear your suggestions. Please share them in the UK Biobank Forum.

If you need additional guidance or support please submit a ticket