Guidance from the SAC

2019 Scientific Advisory Committee Meeting

 

Each year, the SAC provides feedback for the USTUR’s faculty and staff. This feedback comes in the form of general comments on the work that the USTUR is conducting, and recommendations as to what the USTUR should focus on in the coming year.

Comments

1. We are pleased with progress in demonstrating value to DOE officials through publication of papers and presentations. Continued progress and expansion are encouraged.
2. We are pleased with the development of the confidentiality policy.
3. The USTUR has shown significant effort toward identifying and developing collaboration opportunities with outsiders this year.
4. We believe the DQO document draft is a good start but believe it needs to be completed with improved links to MQOs.
5. Maintaining a high degree of sensitivity for release of samples and use of data in encouraged.

Recommendations

1. Continue and increase publication of papers and presentations and work toward improving credentials (e.g. certifications) of the staff.
2. Increase interactions with WSU at its several campuses including participation in seminars and lectures. Gain recognition as research professors by units beyond the College of Pharmacy (e.g. Chemistry, Nuclear Science, etc.) to develop collaborative research projects and student involvement.
3. Complete Quality Assurance Plan/DQO Document to include: 1) measurement of all analytes/matrices performed onsite and offsite, 2) Measurement Quality Objectives (accuracy, precision, sensitivity, selectivity, completeness, etc.), linked to the DQO decision needs, 3) quality tolerance limits for the different quality measurement parameters that monitor and control the MQOs linked to the Measurement Quality Indicators, and 4) data verification and validation objectives/practices for verifying that MQOs are met. Include all MQOs and tolerance limits in the Statement of Work used for contracted offsite analyses.
4. Complete implementation of an initiative for collecting bioassay monitoring data from living Registrants.
5. Develop specific objectives for the goals presented in the 5-year and 10-year plans and establish benchmark completion dates for stated goals.
6. Include in the operating procedure for control, release, and potential return of data and tissues a developed policy that provides limitations on use/reuse.
7. Review and update policies and procedures for pre-publication review with collaborators to make sure that the USTUR has active involvement in the review and approval of publications and acknowledgement as a co-author.
8. Develop written guidelines for managing potential interaction with outside worker advocates representing deceased Registrants.