Managing Participation

You can apply for an account on our website or by clicking Apply Here. All applications are subject to an approval process which usually takes 24 hours.

We will check all the required information has been supplied and that you do not have an account already. We will contact you with any questions. If approved or rejected you will be informed by email. When an account is approved you and any other people on the account will be asked to set a password. Once you have access to the account you can purchase schemes.

1. Install the Microsoft Authenticator or Google Authenticator app on your mobile phone.

2. Log in to the EMQN system.

3. Open the Authenticator app and tap the + symbol to add a new account.

4. Select “Other Account” from the available options.
5. Use your phone to scan the QR code displayed on the EMQN screen.
6. Enter the verification code generated by the app into the EMQN system to complete the setup.

Once configured, you will be asked to enter a new verification code from the Authenticator app each time you sign in.

During the application process, you may be asked to select an agent. An agent acts as the importer of the samples on your behalf and will:

• Import and deliver the samples to your organisation.
• Act as your local point of contact.
•  Invoice your organisation in your local currency.
• Manage any customs and import requirements on your behalf.
• Using an agent means you do not need to deal with customs procedures or import-related issues. In some countries, the use of an agent is mandatory, while in others it is optional. We strongly recommend using an agent wherever available to save time and avoid potential import delays.

Yes. EMQN is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of all participant and laboratory information. We handle personal and laboratory data in accordance with applicable data protection legislation, including the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act.

Access to your account information is restricted to authorised EMQN staff and designated users within your own laboratory. Each participating laboratory is assigned a unique EMQN Participant Number, which is used for identification and assessment purposes wherever possible.

Assessment results and laboratory performance data are treated as confidential and are not shared with other participants. However, in certain circumstances, EMQN may be required to disclose information to relevant regulatory, accreditation, or commissioning bodies where this is necessary to support quality assurance, patient safety, or compliance with agreed performance monitoring procedures.

Further information can be found in our Privacy Policy and the performance monitoring criteria applicable to your EQA scheme.

If your Primary Contact has left and you do not have any access to the account please Contact Us with your details.

Most account information can be updated by your laboratory’s Primary Contact or any user with Laboratory Administrator permissions.

You can update your personal details, including your name and contact information, by navigating to User Preferences > Account Settings within your EMQN account. For security reasons, user accounts must not be transferred to another individual by changing the account holder’s details. Any account changes are reviewed and approved by the EMQN team.

Only the Primary Contact for your laboratory account can add new users. Each laboratory account can have up to 10 users, and there is no additional charge for these users.

To add a new member of staff, manage existing users, or update user permissions, please use the Manage Staff function within your account. You can also watch our Managing Users video guide for step-by-step instructions.

If you need to change the Primary Contact for your laboratory account, please use the Manage Staff function within your account. If you require assistance, the EMQN team will be happy to help.

Pilot EQA schemes are newly introduced assessments that are being evaluated before becoming part of EMQN’s established portfolio. They provide laboratories with an opportunity to participate in emerging areas of testing, contribute valuable feedback, and help shape future quality assessment services.

While participant submissions are reviewed and assessed, pilot schemes are intended for educational and developmental purposes. Results do not contribute to formal performance classifications, and standard appeals procedures do not apply during the pilot phase.

EMQN may invite participants to provide feedback on pilot schemes to support their ongoing development and ensure they meet the needs of the laboratory community.

For information about current pilot schemes and available enrolment opportunities, please visit the EQA Catalogue or contact us.

EMQN offers a range of External Quality Assessment (EQA) schemes designed to reflect real-world diagnostic practice across genetic and genomic testing. Depending on the scheme, participation may involve the analysis and interpretation of clinical cases, laboratory data, sequence data, digital materials, or physical specimens.

Scheme formats vary according to the testing methodology and educational objectives. Some assessments focus on analytical performance, while others evaluate result interpretation, reporting, or the complete diagnostic pathway.

Detailed information about the format, materials provided, submission requirements, and assessment criteria for each scheme can be found in the relevant scheme description within the EQA

If you no longer require your EMQN account, you can request its closure directly through the platform:

• Log in to your EMQN account.
• Navigate to User Settings.
• Select Account.
• Click Close Account and follow the on-screen instructions.

Alternatively, you can contact the EMQN team via our Contact Us page and provide your Lab ID to request account closure.

Please note that closing your account may affect access to historical EQA participation records and reports. If you are unsure whether account closure is the best option, please contact us before proceeding.

If you are new to EMQN, our New User Onboarding Guide is the best place to begin. The guide provides step-by-step instructions on setting up your account, navigating the Participant Area, registering for schemes, accessing samples and reports, submitting results, and managing your laboratory’s information.
Whether you are a new participant or taking over responsibility for EQA activities within your laboratory, the guide will help you quickly become familiar with EMQN processes and systems.