FDA continually seeks input from consumers on scientific and medical issues. A key method to ensure that FDA obtains the points of views from consumers is by including consumer representatives on Agency advisory committees. FDA is currently recruiting to fill vacant consumer representative positions. This is a great opportunity for consumer advocates to be part of an important process, and we encourage all those meeting the criteria to apply.
Consumer representatives provide the perspective of American consumers at large and do not represent their own personal expertise. The role of the consumer representative is to:
Represent the consumer perspective on issues and actions before the advisory committee;
Serve as a liaison between the committee and interested consumers, associations, coalitions, and consumer organizations; and
Facilitate dialogue with the advisory committees on scientific issues that affect consumers.
To fulfill this role, it is essential that those applying for consumer representative positions meet these two criteria:
Have an affiliation with and active participation in independent consumer or community based organizations or a history of advocating for the public interest; and
Demonstrate an ability to analyze scientific data and critique research design.
To learn more about FDA Advisory Committees, visit the FDA Advisory Committees website. To submit an application for membership, visit the Applying for Membership page or call 301-796-8220 and ask for Kimberly Hamilton. To track advisory committee vacancy rates, visit the Advisory Committees FDA-TRACK Dashboard.