To access any data on the UK Biobank Research Analysis Platform (UKB-RAP), all researchers are required to complete the full set of mandatory training courses. UK Biobank will not grant access to UKB-RAP until all required training has been successfully completed. Researchers who do not complete the mandatory courses may have their access paused, and in some cases their projects may be closed, until the training requirements are met.

This is to ensure that all users understand data governance responsibilities, privacy obligations, and safe use of the platform.

Introduction

There are 4 mandatory modules that you must complete prior to being granted access to the UKB-RAP, as outlined in the image below. These are; 1) An introduction to UK Biobank, 2) Data protection and privacy, 3) Introduction to the UKB-RAP and 4) Code repositories. In 2027, we will be introducing a yearly refresher module for those already using the UKB-RAP. For all of the mandatory training modules, you are required to pass a multiple choice test with a pass rate of 80% within AMS.

We are also actively developing new, optional, training materials that will help you best utilise UK Biobank data and resources, in addition to aiding you in producing the most impactful work possible. 

Mandatory modules

While we develop our dedicated training platform, you can access the new mandatory training courses below. 

1. MRC Course: Confidentiality and Data Protection in Health Research 

Researchers must first complete the Medical Research Council (MRC) course: Confidentiality and Data Protection in Health Research and upload the test completion certificate to your AMS account. The course must have been completed within the last 12 months.

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

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 UKB-RAP and completed certificates should not be forwarded to them. Please contact us with any questions. 

2. Introduction to using UK Biobank

This module will introduce UK Biobank and overview access and charges. This module will also introduce some of the key responsibilities that you hold as a researcher using UK Biobank data. 

Complete the intro to UK Biobank training

3. Introduction to the UK Biobank Research Analysis Platform (UKB-RAP)

This module covers navigating the platform, selecting tools, and working efficiently and cost-effectively. 

Complete the intro to UKB-RAP training

4. Code repository training

This module covers accessing, using, and managing shared code repositories for reproducible analysis.

Complete the code repository training

Non-completion of training

The compulsory training modules are essential to ensure that researchers use UKB data responsibly and have a demonstrated understanding of data protection, governance and safe platform operation. Therefore, researchers who do not complete all required training components:

• Will not be granted access to UKB-RAP
• Will have existing access suspended
• May have access permanently removed until all training requirements are met

Optional modules

While we develop our dedicated training platform, you can access our new optional training courses below. 

1. Getting back onto the UKB-RAP

This module provides an overview of changes to the UKB-RAP, the new airlock system and your responsibilities when using UK Biobank data.

Complete the getting back onto the UKB-RAP training

2. The UK Biobank airlock (output checking system)

This module provides an overview on how to use the new UK Biobank airlock/output checking system, providing background context and best practices for a successful output request.

Complete the airlock training

Meet the researcher training team

All training materials are created by our researcher training team: Dr Jonny Coates and Dr Katie Moran-Jones. We would be delighted to dicuss training and wider researcher engagement if you see us at a conference or event.

If you would like to recommend new training then please use this form to submit your suggestion. We are also open to collaborative training and co-creation opportunities.