Applications Now Accepted: NIH Council of Public Representatives - Due September 26, 2008
National Institutes of Health

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is pleased to announce the open nomination process for the 2009 Director’s Council of Public Representatives (COPR) roster. Materials are due and must be postmarked by September 26, 2008. The COPR is designed to (1) obtain the broadest public input for the NIH Director on matters of public importance concerning biomedical research and (2) conduct the broadest outreach to increase the public’s understanding of the NIH and its programs.

Potential members should have: (1) Demonstrated interest in the work of the NIH. (2) An ability to communicate regularly with the broader public or segments of the public about the activities of the COPR and NIH on a formal or informal basis. (3) A commitment to participate fully in all COPR activities, including biannual meetings, conference calls, and subcommittee and/or work group activities. Application instructions are available online and all materials must be postmarked by September 26, 2008 to be considered.

Applications Now Accepted: Resource Persons Network
Office of Minority Health

The Resource Persons Network is a group of professionals who volunteer their services in support of the OMHRC's mission to improve the health status of racial and ethnic minority groups in the United States. Therefore, the primary goal of the RPN is to provide technical and capacity-building assistance to community-based organizations and institutions on behalf of the OMHRC for the purpose of assisting local efforts to improve minority health.

The OMHRC welcomes applications from multidisciplinary health professionals who are interested in joining the Resource Persons Network. RPN members have expertise in a variety of fields, including cancer, research, funding, and adolescent health and aging issues. The OMHRC is currently looking to increase the number of RPN members that have expertise in cultural competency and research and data analysis.

Consumer Involvement in Peer Review
Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program

The unique voice and experiences of patients, survivors, family members and advocates play a pivotal role in the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs. As active members of the program, consumers take part in setting program priorities and making funding decisions.