Call for Members: Ontario Public Health Emergencies Science Advisory Committee (OPHESAC)

Public Health Ontario is currently recruiting two (2) general members for the Ontario Public Health Emergencies Science Advisory Committee (OPHESAC).

Interested candidates should send their expression of interest, with a curriculum vitae and complete contact details to secretariat@oahpp.ca by August 16, 2024.

Membership terms are two years in length.

A member may be reappointed for up to two additional terms of up to two years to allow for continuity and a systematic rotation of membership (total maximum allowable years for membership is six).

The OPHESAC meets at least twice a year and will meet more frequently during acute public health emergencies and to respond to urgent requests for scientific advice.

Candidates must meet the following requirements:

  • Must have a professional designation (e.g., MD, RN, DVM) and/or a graduate degree (Master- or Doctoral-level). Those with a professional designation must be licensed with relevant professional regulatory body (independent practice with no restrictions).
  • Appointment with a research institute or post-secondary institution (e.g., university) in Ontario with proven track record of research (applicable to researchers/academics only).
  • Currently working in Ontario.
  • Minimum of five years of work experience in area of expertise (excluding graduate/restricted licensure-level training).
  • Up to date with new and emerging research and practice within area of expertise.
  • Recognized as a credible expert in their field among peers.
  • Ability to network and engage with peers as needed.
  • Be able and willing to comply with PHO’s Conflict of Interest Rules and confidentiality requirements.

Areas of expertise (including but not limited to):

  • epidemiology and surveillance
  • modelling
  • public health
  • emergency planning
  • immunology
  • infectious diseases
  • microbiology
  • environmental health
  • veterinary science
  • health economics
  • behavioural science
  • implementation science
  • health equity and social justice

Public Health Ontario’s goal is to create a diverse, inclusive space that reflects the communities we serve and to ensure our services and communications are accessible to all individuals. Any candidate who requires this posting in an alternative format may email a request to secretariat@oahpp.ca.

About OPHESAC

The Ontario Public Health Emergencies Science Advisory Committee is a group of independent, multi-disciplinary experts whose role is to enhance provincial capacity to respond to a spectrum of public health emergencies with the best available evidence. OPHESAC provides independent scientific advice to PHO, and where appropriate through PHO to Ministry of Health, to inform the management of public health emergencies. Additional information about OPHESAC and members’ roles and responsibilities can be found in the OPHESAC Terms of Reference.

Updated 24 July 2024