Spotlight on the PCH Burn Biobank
he PCH Burn Biobank is helping FWF researchers build a more holistic understanding of childhood burn injury and recovery through longitudinal research.
The Paediatric Burn Biobank is helping FWF researchers better understand burn injury and recovery in children by bringing together biological, clinical, psychological and psychosocial information over time.
As of August 2026, the Perth Children’s Hospital Biobank includes 612 participants, including children who have experienced a burn injury, along with their parents and caregivers.
Researchers collect biological samples, including hair, blood, stool, and urine, alongside clinical information and follow-up data. This allows researchers to investigate the physiological effects of burn injury and how these may change over time.
Psychological and psychosocial measures are also included. Linking these with biological samples and clinical information allows researchers to explore potential relationships between the physiological effects of burn injury, wellbeing, quality of life and the lived experience of recovery.
A key strength of the Biobank is its longitudinal design. Following participants over time allows researchers to examine how different aspects of recovery may change and how biological, clinical, psychological and psychosocial information may relate to one another. Together, this is helping FWF researchers build a more holistic understanding of childhood burn injury and recovery.
Longitudinal research relies on sustained support. Perth Children’s Hospital Foundation supports FWF research at Perth Children’s Hospital, including the ongoing collection of samples and data that underpins the Biobank. Support from Telethon 7 has enabled psychological and psychosocial measures to be included, strengthening the ability to examine these alongside biological and clinical information over time.
The children, parents and caregivers who continue to participate are also central to this research. Their contribution over time enables FWF researchers to continue building knowledge of childhood burn injury and recovery.
