EFSA calls for experts to join scientific panels
The European food safety agency said applications are invited from high-calibre scientists with expertise in: plant health; genetically modified organisms; feedstuffs; animal health and welfare; plant protection; contaminants in the food chain; biological hazards; and nutrition.
“There is a real need to do the work that EFSA does," commented Professor Joe Perry, Chair of the Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms. "Risk assessment is important, not just scientifically but for society. That’s one of the reasons that I went into it."
"Scientists are consumers too – everyone eats food – and many are parents, so it’s an opportunity to give something back as well as to have an interesting time meeting experts from different countries, and to do your best in challenging areas.”
In addition to the eight Scientific Panels that cover these areas, the authority said it is also renewing membership of its Scientific Committee - which is responsible for overarching issues such as harmonisation of risk assessment approaches and new methodologies.
“Working for EFSA is hard work, and it should be hard work, but the rewards make it worthwhile and I would recommend it to anyone," said Professor Anthony Hardy, Chair of the Scientific Committee.
Interested experts are invited to apply online, and should be able to demonstrate experience in scientific risk assessment and have proven expertise in one or more of the areas of EFSA’s remit. Those selected will be offered a three-year mandate from July 2015, said EFSA.
