HHS Seeks Experts to Help Strengthen the Nation’s Health Preparedness

Applications open through November 22 for the National Biodefense Science Board and National Advisory Committee on Children and Disasters

Washington, DC (October 22, 2026) — The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), is seeking applications for subject matter experts to serve on two federal advisory committees to help inform the nation’s public health and medical preparedness, response, and recovery: the National Biodefense Science Board (NBSB) and the National Advisory Committee on Children and Disasters (NACCD).

“The health threats our nation faces are evolving, and preparing for them requires expertise and perspectives from across science, medicine, public health and our communities,” said Sean Kaufman, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response. “These advisory committees bring together leaders with deep knowledge and real-world experience to help strengthen our nation’s health security and ensure our preparedness efforts reflect the needs of the people and communities we serve.”

The National Biodefense Science Board advises the HHS Secretary and ASPR on scientific, technical, and other matters related to public health and medical preparedness and response, including preparedness for infectious disease outbreaks and the health impacts of chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear threats. The board also considers how advances in the biological and life sciences, biotechnology, and genetic engineering may affect the nation’s health, security, and preparedness.

The NBSB consists of 13 members appointed by the HHS Secretary from among the nation’s leading scientific, public health, and medical experts. Its membership brings together perspectives from the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device industries; academia; clinical health care; health care consumer organizations; pediatric health and preparedness; and state, tribal, territorial and local public health.

The National Advisory Committee on Children and Disasters advises the HHS Secretary and ASPR on the medical and public health needs of children in disasters. The committee provides expert advice to strengthen all-hazards public health and medical preparedness, response, and recovery for children and their families.

The NACCD’s 13 members bring a range of expertise and perspectives, including pediatric emergency medicine; disaster planning, preparedness, response and recovery; mental and behavioral health; schools and child care; and the unique needs of children and youth with special health care needs, parents and family caregivers.

Members of both committees contribute their expertise through public meetings, deliberations, and working groups addressing priority issues in public health emergency preparedness and response.

HHS is accepting applications for membership on both committees through November 22, 2026. Individuals may nominate themselves for consideration.

For eligibility requirements, nomination instructions, and additional information, visit the Call for Applications webpage.

###