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MDC Document: Process for review of applications and selection of Molecular Diagnostic Centers

About the Molecular Diagnostic Centres (MDC) Project of IFCC C-MD

The MDC network is a new concept which is about to get underway and a call for applications will soon be made through the various member societies of the IFCC. Additional details concerning participation, application forms, and fields of application, or areas of interest, are detailed further below.

Each MDC which is formed will represent an interface between the IFCC C-MD and clinical laboratories performing molecular diagnostic tests. The MDC concept was formulated to promote formation of an international network of molecular diagnostic laboratories and to encourage close collaboration within this network. This approach supports the IFCC-CMD's broader initiatives for excellence and international collaborations in molecular diagnostics. 

Terms of reference of the MDCs

• To provide a point of contact to Molecular Diagnostic Laboratories in the analysis and/or interpretation of complex analytical/clinical scenarios.
• To participate in international studies involving the evaluation of new methodological approaches. 
   

MDC fields of application and joining a MDC Network

Individuals and organizations can apply to join an MDC network by completion of an application form. There are two levels of participation, including participation as an IFCC MDC Network Member or as an IFCC MDC Expert Laboratory. IFCC MDC Network Members will be given access to the MDC listserver for their area of interest. IFCC MDC Expert Laboratories will be engaged at a higher level and act as a point of reference within a special area of interest within the IFCC MDC Network. Further details are available on the application form.

The fields of application which will be supported depends in part on the interest shown in any particular field or area of interest and the expertise of the applicants. Shown below are a number of examples. Applicants may nominate other fields not covered by the list below in the application form. The C-MD is happy to consider other fields depending on the level of interest. 
 
 

Examples of fields of application 

cystic fibrosis,
haemochromatosis
dyslipidaemias Fragile X
pharmacogenetics

Examples of molecular oncology fields of application

breast cancer
melanoma
gene amplification circulating tumour cells
laser microdissection
acquired rearrangements

MDC Application Form

Applications for membership of the IFCC C-MD's MDC network is through submission of an application form. A Word version of the application form can be downloaded from the following link:

Download Application Form (MS Word)