The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine is seeking suggestions for experts to be considered for the membership rotation or other engagement with the Forum on Medical and Public Health Preparedness for Disasters and Emergencies. The Forum fosters in-depth discussion and collaboration to examine barriers, identify research, explore innovative operational and policy solutions, and inspire action among diverse stakeholders in support of sustaining and advancing health security. Since 2007, the Forum convenes and engages leaders at federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial levels representing government, non-profit, and for-profit sectors to improve the nation's medical and public health preparedness for, response to, and recovery from disasters and emergencies, including emerging threats. Using these recommendations, National Academies staff will seek to fill five to seven open seats for distinguished appointed members on the Forum. In addition, staff are identifying potential speakers, participants, and other contributors for upcoming Forum activities. Staff are particularly interested in recruiting individuals with expertise in the following areas:
- Disaster Medicine and Emergency Health Systems - Experts in clinical and operational aspects of disaster response, trauma systems, medical surge, and emergency coordination across civilian and military sectors.
- Public Health Preparedness, Response, and Recovery - Leaders in developing and evaluating public health systems for readiness, surveillance, and community-level response to natural, biological, and technological hazards.
- Infectious Disease and Health Security - Specialists in infectious disease epidemiology, pandemic preparedness, One Health, and emerging pathogen surveillance who inform prevention and control strategies.
- Medical Countermeasures (MCMs) - Professionals focused on research, development, regulation, and deployment of vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics, and protective equipment during public health emergencies.
- Medical Product Supply Chain Resilience - Experts in manufacturing, logistics, procurement, and distribution systems who address vulnerabilities and strengthen continuity of healthcare and public health operations.
- Critical Infrastructure Protection - Leaders in infrastructure resilience, cybersecurity, facility operations, and interdependency planning across sectors essential for emergency response and recovery.
- Public–Private Partnerships and Multi-Sector Collaboration - Practitioners experienced in building partnerships among government, academia, healthcare, industry, and community-based organizations to enhance preparedness and response capacity.
- Allied Health and Workforce Readiness - Representation from nursing, EMS, pharmacy, behavioral health, and other allied professions to address workforce safety, training, and surge capacity.
- Data and Digital Innovation - Leaders in data science, AI, digital health, and information systems who develop and apply technology-driven solutions to support real-time decision-making and coordination during emergencies.