MPP is looking for a new Expert Advisory Group (EAG) Member
(volunteer position)
Required profile: Research and development (R&D) and science expert
1. Background information
The Medicines Patent Pool (MPP) is a United Nations-backed public health organisation working to increase access to, and facilitate the development of, life-saving medicines for low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Through its innovative business model, MPP partners with civil society, governments, international organisations, industry, patient groups and other stakeholders, to prioritise and license needed medicines and pool intellectual property to encourage generic manufacture and the development of new formulations. To date, MPP has signed agreements with patent holders for thirteen HIV antiretrovirals, three hepatitis C direct-acting antivirals, a tuberculosis treatment and recently for COVID-19 drugs and technology. MPP was founded by Unitaid, which continues to be MPPâs main funder. MPPâs work on access to essential medicines is also funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC). MPP is funded as well by various public funders for its work on mRNA program.
2. Expert Advisory Group roleÂ
The Expert Advisory Group has a consultative function. Its role as per MPPâs Statues and By-Laws is to:
- Review and provide advice to the Governance Board and the MPPâs Executive Director, upon request, with regard to general strategy and key management decisions;
- Provide a written report containing EAGâs recommendations to the Governance Board on the specifics of each licence agreement, which report will be submitted to the Board and ultimately published in the MPP web page, should the proposed agreement proceed to execution.
More information on the role of EAG and its Terms of Reference.
3. Required profile of skills and expertise
MPP is looking for a scientist, an expert in research and development (R&D) process with focus on access to medicines in LMICs. The ideal candidate will also have a good understanding of the public health issues in LMICs as well as of the MPP model to improve access to affordable and appropriate essential medicines in LMICs.
4. Additional information
EAG members serve in their personal capacity and on an unremunerated basis. EAG members have to abide by MPP general policies.
5. Time commitment
EAG members serve a three-year term renewable once. EAG meetings are normally convened once a year in person (all expenses paid) and teleconferences are organised in between as required according to MPPâs needs.
6. Application process
To apply please send your CV and covering letter outlining your relevant experience, expertise and interest in joining our EAG to recruitment@medicinespatentpool.org with the subject âEAG candidate nominationâ by 15 September 2022 at midnight CET. You may also suggest someone in writing to the same email address and using the same subject line.
A list of suitable candidates will be compiled by the MPP management and reviewed by the Governance Board in the first instance. Interviews will take place before a Board decision can be made. MPP is committed to achieving 50/50 gender balance and geographical diversity within its EAG.