Call for Experts for Review of Gluten and Food Allergen Methods

AOAC INTERNATIONAL seeks volunteer subject matter experts (SMEs) in gluten and food allergen methodologies and validation to serve as volunteer experts and AOAC Research Institute (RI) expert reviewers in the AOAC Performance Tested Methods^SM (PTM) and AOAC Official Methods of Analysis^SM (OMA) programs. Experts in gluten and food allergen methodology and method validation are needed to review candidate methods submitted to these programs for review leading to certification as Performance Tested Methods^SM and/or adoption and publication in the Official Methods of Analysis^SM of AOAC INTERNATIONAL.

Volunteers may also guide the development and approval of validation testing protocols and study designs as part of the AOAC Consulting Service. Candidates responding to this call may be invited to participate in AOAC expert review panel (ERP) related activities. This role offers SMEs an opportunity to participate and lend your expertise and experience to the AOAC method programs. If you are a SME and are interested in volunteering, complete the application linked below.

AOAC Volunteer Experts: Volunteer SMEs for the AOAC OMA program who are vetted by the AOAC Official Methods Board to serve on an AOAC ERP and in the PTM program. This volunteer serves an integral part in the PTM program as a lead reviewer of three experts for assigned method validation reports and approving the validation studies for certification. The Volunteer Expert also serves as the lead expert on development and approval of assigned method validation protocols and study designs in the AOAC Consulting Service, reviewing and approving validation study protocols. Program orientation and training may be required as part of the onboarding process.

AOAC Research Institute Expert Reviewers: Volunteer SMEs for the AOAC PTM program, administered through the AOAC RI. These volunteers undergo screening and are vetted through the AOAC RI, and are assigned to review validation study reports and, along with the assigned volunteer expert, will render decisions on the approval of the method for certification. Program orientation and training may be required as part of the onboarding process.

Eligibility to Serve as an AOAC Volunteer Expert or Research Institute Expert Reviewer

All applications will be screened and submitted to the AOAC Official Methods Board, who will vet and approve the candidates. Ideal candidates must:

1. Submit an application including brief statement of experience and a two (2) page CV or resume
2. Have experience and/or expertise in at least one of the following, but not limited to:
   • Gluten and/or food allergen analysis
   • Antibody and/or assay development for gluten and/or food allergens
   • Analytical method validation
   • Current research on gluten and food allergen analysis
   • Varying analytical techniques related to detection or determination of gluten or food allergens in food and environmental food grade surfaces