The Food and Drug Law Institute has been a cornerstone for scholarly research, advice on public policy initiatives and networking in the food and drug industry since its establishment in 1949. The institute has five main functions including educating the public, influencing public policy, training individuals, publishing a wide-range of research and providing career advancement opportunities in the field.
Educating the Public
The FDLI is committed to educating the public about significant advancements, new technologies, policy changes and improved services that are innovating the industry daily. The institute hosts interactive online webinars that allow the audience to download slides and ask the presenters questions in real-time. These programs present information on a wide-range of subjects including GMO labeling, social media uses, various regulations and marijuana. A full list of upcoming webinars can be found on their website. The group also hosts networking events and conferences. Their annual conference in May of 2017 focused on exploring advanced topics in food and drug laws. They invited over 100 highly regarded experts to speak at the event.
Influence Public Policy
One important function of the FDLI is to successfully influence public policy and legislation. The group strives to provide education, training, publications and career advancements in the field for the overall goal of making society a better place. Legislation and public policy directly influence the types of substances regulated by the United States Food and Drug Administration. The FDLI covers all of the industries regulated by the FDA as well as other globally regulated products. Stakeholders, researchers and academia can make more informed decisions and push for public policies that support a healthier population.
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Training
FDLI offers extensive, top-quality training resources for anyone new to the food and drug law group. They offer professionals an opportunity to network with highly-regarded members of the industry, gain experience by presenting in their area and educational luncheons with guest speakers. The institute additionally provides thorough introductory courses on FDA laws and regulations. Expert presenters offer employers a cost-effective and customizable solution for training large groups of employees. Some of the introductory courses available are focused on the advertising and promotion of drugs and medical devices, U.S. biologics regulation and U.S. tobacco law.
Publishing
One of the main functions of the FDLI is to publish scholarly resources for policy makers, students, practitioners and anyone interested in food and drug laws. The trusted resources play a significant role in shaping policy debates, covering emerging issues, scholarly research studies and guidance for practitioners. The Food and Drug Law Institute co-publishes the highly-regarded Food and Drug Law Journal quarterly with Georgetown University. This peer-reviewed journal examines court rulings, analyzes legislation and discusses various public policies. FDLI members also enjoy a bimonthly magazine, Update, that focuses on food and drug law news and trends. They also have an electronic forum that is published periodically and only available to members.
Career Advancement
One of the many functions of the FDLI is to provide career advancement opportunities in the field. Members are given the education, training and networking needed to serve their professions. Individuals can interact with peers in government roles, researchers, entrepreneurs in the private sector and other like-minded members. Members are invited to participate in a number of skill-building and networking activities like contribute to articles in FDLI publications, speak during conferences or webinars, share news and host meetings. Membership applications are available on their website at this link.
The FDLI’s five main functions include educating the public, influencing public policy, training individuals, publishing a wide-range of research and providing career advancement opportunities in the field. The Food and Drug Law Institute’s members have been extremely influential for over sixty years, and they are likely to remain a highly-regarded group for years to come.