Scientific and Technical Committee (STC)

The Scientific and Technical Committee (STC) steers the Research Association’s scientific and technical activities at a strategic level. It also oversees the panel system, ensuring that twelve Technical Advisory Panels meet the needs of members. It’s main terms of reference are:-

• Identify the scientific and technical needs of the food and drink supply chain so that they can be documented (in the 'needs document') and used to steer research
• Ensure effective use of member-subscription funded research (MSFR) - in the development and execution of the MSFR programme to address industry needs (as embodied in the 'needs document')
• Identify emerging issues and consider how these should be addressed by Campden BRI or one or more of its Technical Advisory Panels
• Determine the remit and monitor the activities of Technical Advisory Panels, to ensure they perform effectively
• Ensure Campden BRI interacts with other stakeholders to the benefit of its members

It is supported in this role by the Panel Activities Working Group (PAWG), which comprises the Chairs of the twelve Panels and senior Campden BRI staff, and which reports to STC. The terms of reference for PAWG include:-

• Contribute to the development of the scientific and technical needs document, especially highlighting emerging issues relevant to each panel
• Review the Terms of Reference of Technical Advisory Panels (TAPs) and Working Parties (WPs) to ensure their relevance to industry needs
• Share best practice to support the effective operation of TAPs
• Ensure appropriate cross-panel awareness of project proposals emerging from panel discussions
• Ensure that each MSFR project is assigned and reported to at least one TAP or WP