Free FSA SAC virtual session on 18 September

The Food Standards Agency will hold a free virtual information session on Friday 18 September for people considering joining its Scientific Advisory Committees or Science Council. The FSA SAC Virtual Information Session runs from 11am to 12pm UK time on Microsoft Teams.

Prospective applicants can register through the Microsoft form named in the FSA announcement. The session is intended for people interested in chair, full or associate member, and lay member positions.

Current committee members will explain the roles

The online session offers prospective applicants an opportunity to hear directly from current Scientific Advisory Committee members about their experiences. Food Standards Agency colleagues who support the committees will also attend and answer questions.

The programme will cover the current vacancies, how the committees work and the application process, including hints and tips for applicants. People can submit questions for the event when completing the registration form.

The committees and Science Council provide independent scientific advice used in evidence-based decisions on food safety and standards. Their work supports the protection of public health and consumer interests across the United Kingdom.

Recruitment covers six FSA advisory bodies

The 2026/27 campaign includes two chair positions, 19 full and/or associate member positions, and two lay member positions. Applications are encouraged from people of all backgrounds and from a broad range of scientific and professional disciplines.

Recruitment is taking place across six bodies:

• Science Council
• Advisory Committee for Social Science
• Advisory Committee on Animal Feedingstuffs
• Advisory Committee on Novel Foods and Processes
• Advisory Committee on the Microbiological Safety of Food
• Committee on Toxicity of Chemicals in Food, Consumer Products and the Environment

The range of roles means the session is not limited to one type of applicant. It is designed for anyone deciding whether to apply as a chair, full or associate member, or lay member.

Registration comes before the October deadline

Attendance at the virtual session requires registration through the Microsoft form identified by the FSA. As this is an online event, there is no physical venue or transport requirement. The announcement does not provide separate accessibility arrangements.

The information session takes place more than three weeks before applications close on 12 October. That gives attendees time to hear how the committees operate, ask questions and review the applicant guidance before submitting an application.

The FSA states that the guidance contains details of the vacancies, eligibility requirements and application process. Prospective applicants should review it before applying and submit their applications by 12 October.

Source: Food Standards Agency News