New members sought for expert novel foods committee
Tuesday 28 July 2009
A new Chair and an expert molecular biologist are needed for the Advisory Committee on Novel Foods and Processes (ACNFP). The Food Standards Agency intends to appoint in November 2009. The ACNFP is an independent body of experts that advises the FSA on any matters relating to novel foods and novel food processes.
Chair
The successful candidate for the position of Chair will have leadership abilities, sound judgement and a good track record in the assessment and interpretation of scientific data. They will also be able to contribute to the formulation and delivery of advice to the Board of the FSA, have strong communication skills, and be aware of food safety issues.
Expert molecular biologist
The other vacancy is for an expert in molecular biology, preferably with a research background in plant genetics. The successful candidate will be a recognised expert in his or her particular field and will have a good track record in the assessment and interpretation of scientific data. They will also be able to contribute to the formulation and delivery of advice in a committee setting, have good communication skills and be familiar with ongoing debates in biotechnology and food safety.
About the appointments
Appointments are normally for a three-year term and are on an unsalaried basis. The committee meets up to six times a year in London, normally on a Wednesday or Thursday. An attendance fee will be available and all legitimate expenses will be fully reimbursed.
Appointments will be made strictly on merit in accordance with the Commissioner for Public Appointments guidance on appointment to public bodies. Selection will be in accordance with the Government’s equal opportunities policy. Successful candidates will be required to declare any interests that may be relevant to the work of the committee.
Further details and an application pack may be obtained from the ACNFP Secretariat at Food Standards Agency, Room 5C, Aviation House, 125 Kingsway, London WC2B 6NH.
tel: 020 7276 8595
email: acnfp@foodstandards.gsi.gov.uk
The closing date for receipt of completed applications is 31 August 2009.
About novel foods and the ACNFP
A novel food is a food or food ingredient that does not have a significant history of consumption within the European Union before 15 May 1997.
Before any new food product can be introduced on the European market it must be rigorously assessed for safety. In the UK, the assessment of novel foods is carried out by an independent committee of scientists appointed by the FSA, the ACNFP.
Further information on novel foods and the work of the committee can be found at the links below.
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