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Apply To Become a Part of the National Biodefense Science Board (NBSB)


Opening Date: October 22, 2026
Applications Due:  November 22, 2026 

If you're driven by a desire to protect public health and enhance our nation's preparedness for emergencies, apply to become a part of the National Biodefense Science Board (NBSB). 

This board brings together top minds to advise on cutting-edge strategies and scientific breakthroughs in biodefense. 

Whether it's a natural disaster or a man-made threat, your insights could help shape national preparedness efforts and save lives. By joining the NBSB, you have a chance to enhance our country’s ability to respond to the unforeseen challenges of tomorrow. 

Authority

The National Biodefense Science Board (NBSB) is required under section 319M of the Public Health Service (PHS) Act (42 U.S.C. 247d-7g) as added by section 402 of the Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Act (PAHPA) of 2006 and amended by section 404 of the Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Reauthorization Act (PAHPRA). The NBSB is governed by the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App. 2). 

Description of Duties

The NBSB advises the Secretary or the ASPR on current and future trends, challenges, and opportunities presented by advances in biological and life sciences, biotechnology, and genetic engineering with respect to threats posed by naturally occurring infectious diseases and chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear agents, reviews and considers any information and findings received from the working groups established under 42 U.S.C. 247d-7g(b).  

At the request of the Secretary the NBSB also provides recommendations and findings for expanded, intensified, and coordinated biodefense research and development activities. The NBSB provides recommendations, findings, or reports to the Secretary or the ASPR, to the appropriate committees of Congress. 

Please keep in mind appointees to the committee will be onboarded as unpaid special government employees and will be required to: (a) complete financial disclosures of conflicts of interest required for ethics clearance; and (b) make a 3-year time commitment, which includes attending at least two public meetings per year, one of which will be in person in the Washington DC area (travel reimbursed), and occasional administrative meetings (virtual).  

Membership and Designation  

Members shall be appointed by the Secretary of HHS from among the Nation’s preeminent scientific, public health and medical experts in areas consistent with the purpose and functions of the advisory committee. The NBSB shall consist of 13 non-federal voting members, including the Chairperson, as follows:

  • Four individuals representing the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and device industries; 

  • Four individuals representing academia; and 

  • Five other members as determined appropriate by the Secretary, of whom – 

    • One such member shall be a practicing healthcare professional;

    • One such member shall be an individual from an organization representing health care consumers; 

    • One such member shall be an individual with pediatric subject matter expertise; and

    • One such member shall be a State, tribal, territorial, or local public health official.

The NBSB may also include such federal officials as the Secretary may determine are necessary to support the functions of the NBSB, who shall serve as non-voting members. 

Additional Information

Additional information on duties and membership is available in the National Biodefense Science Board Charter. To learn more about the NBSB and its work, visit the National Biodefense Science Board site.  

Questions?  

For additional information, contact LCDR Cliffon Smith, Designated Federal Official, NBSB, ASPR, HHS, at  NBSB@hhs.gov.

Apply Today!  

Apply by completing our two-step application process by October 30, 2026:  

  1. Step 1:

    Complete our Online Form. 

  2. Step 2:

    Email NBSB@hhs.gov with the subject line “Application for the National Biodefense Science Board: [Insert your name]. Attach the required documentation to your email:   1) a cover letter; 2) curriculum vitae or résumé; and 3) one professional recommendation. 

Apply Today!