The Convergence Planning Committee is seeking volunteers with expertise in these areas to fill five (5) open positions:
- Three (3) device track focused
- Two (2) pharmaceutical track focused
Purpose
To develop themes and tracks and identify topics and speakers for the RAPS Annual Conference (“Convergence”) that are suited to the needs of members and the profession, and position the annual conference as the preeminent professional development, learning, and networking opportunity for the regulatory profession.
Current RAPS members with previous volunteer experience with RAPS are preferred. Evaluations will not only be based on the individual but on the overall needs of the committee to achieve diverse representation to deliver a well-rounded program.
There are currently two (2) openings for the pharmaceuticals track, and three (3) openings for the devices track. Domestic and international volunteers are encouraged to apply.
Scope
The RAPS Convergence Committee will actively work with RAPS staff to perform the following:
- Identify content for the conference that integrate evergreen topics that remain consistent year-over-year, as well as timely or emerging topics appropriate to the medical device, IVD, and pharmaceuticals regulatory communities.
- Review all conference abstract submissions using a pre-selected rubric, and select those that reflect excellence and innovation in regulatory that can be slotted into one of the predefined conference tracks.
- Create the conference agenda and support session development, in alignment with the tracks and selected abstracts.
- Assist RAPS staff in identifying preconference workshop topics and subject matter experts to develop and lead them.
- Provide feedback to RAPS staff on networking ideas and opportunities.
Commitment & Expectations
Committee members are expected to actively participate and contribute throughout the program development cycle for RAPS Convergences. Including:
- Monthly committee calls: December 2025 through August 2026
- In-person planning meeting: one, 2-day in-person program planning meeting at RAPS Headquarters in Rockville, MD (tentative for February 2026)
- Bi-weekly track calls: Starting late Spring 2026
- Program development support: Members will support session and speaker development, serving as liaison (“coach”) for up to five assigned sessions. Estimated time commitment:
- December 2025 – April 2026: 15-20 hours per month. Includes abstract review period and general program planning with RAPS staff
- May 2026 – September 2026: Approximately 20 hours per month for peak program planning
- Travel to Convergence: Members are expected to attend RAPS Convergence. May support assigned session and speakers as needed
Specific timelines and dates will be adjusted each year based on that year’s Convergence schedule.
Composition/Size
The committee will consist of seventeen (19) members, all RAPS volunteers.
- (1) One Chair
- (1) One Vice Chair
- (1) One President of the RAPS Board of Directors.
- (14) Fourteen others, chosen from pool of volunteers
- (2) Two Health Authority Advisors
Length Of Service
- Committee members serve one (1) three-year term
- Committee Chair and Vice Chair both serve one (1), two-year term in the respective roles: Vice Chair becomes the Committee chair for two (2) additional years
Committee Member Benefits
- Travel, lodging, and meals covered by RAPS during the in-person planning meeting at RAPS headquarters.
- Complimentary main conference registration to Convergence + one ticket to the Convergence Networking Party
- Online and onsite recognition before and during Convergence
All travel and hotel coordination and costs for Convergence and other events are the responsibility of committee members.
Volunteers Needed:
- Five (5) openings:
- Two (2) pharmaceuticals track-focused
- Three (3) devices track-focused
Experience Required:
- Eight (8) or more years of industry experience
- Demonstrated success in working with committees (RAPS and otherwise)