Call for Nominations: Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE) on Immunisation

The World Health Organization (WHO) is soliciting proposals for nominations to its Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE) on immunisation. SAGE reports directly to the Director-General and is charged with advising WHO on overall global policies and strategies, ranging from vaccine and technology research and development, to delivery of immunisation and its linkages with other health interventions. SAGE normally meets twice a year in Geneva, Switzerland. In addition, members are asked to contribute to SAGE working groups and to fully engage in the preparation of each meeting. SAGE's remit is not restricted to childhood vaccines and immunisation but extends to all vaccine-preventable diseases as well as all age groups.

Members of SAGE are appointed to serve for an initial term of three years, renewable once. They represent: a range of professional affiliations (i.e., academia, the medical profession, research institutes, and governmental bodies including national immunisation programmes, public health departments, and regulatory authorities); major areas of interest (e.g., influenza control, diarrhoeal diseases, respiratory diseases, research, biologics, and safety); and the three major strategic areas of WHO's work relating to immunisation (accelerating innovation, ensuring quality and safety, and maximising access to and links with other health interventions). Consideration will be given to ensuring appropriate geographic representation and gender balance. For detailed information, read the SAGE Terms of Reference [PDF].

WHO is soliciting nominations for current and future SAGE vacancies from all regions no later than January 15 2016. Please submit your nominations by email (sageexecsec@who.int) to the SAGE Executive Secretary. Self-nominations as well as nominations suggested by third-party individuals or organisations will be accepted. Before consideration by the SAGE membership selection panel, nominees will be asked to confirm their interest, availability, and commitment to serve on SAGE, as well as to provide a curriculum vitae, a letter of motivation highlighting what their contribution to SAGE could be, and a completed declaration of interests form. The selection panel will then propose the selection of nominees to the WHO Director-General for appointment.

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Click here for specific information on the role and expectations of SAGE members and how to apply.