Notification 2023-053

Dear Madam/Sir, Reference is made to notifications 2023-034 and 2023-046 in which Parties, among others, were invited to nominate an expert for the multidisciplinary Ad Hoc Technical Expert Group on Synthetic Biology established by the Conference of the Parties in decision 15/31. In view of the need to ensure that the process for horizon scanning is sufficiently multidisciplinary, a broad range of disciplines, including social sciences, as well as interdisciplinary and intercultural expertise, are necessary. Thus, the purpose of this notification is to invite Parties to send additional nominations of experts to complement the scientific and technical experts already submitted for the multidisciplinary Ad Hoc Technical Expert Group on Synthetic Biology. The deadline to send additional nominations is 18 May 2023. The nominations should be submitted in the form of an official letter addressed to the Executive Secretary, clearly indicating the name and full contact details of each nominee, as well as curriculum vitae, to be sent by e-mail to secretariat@cbd.int as soon as possible. In line with decision 14/33, nominees are also required to complete the interest disclosure form. The selection of experts will be made, in consultation with the Bureau of the Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice, taking into account relevant expertise and experience as per the terms of reference of the multidisciplinary AHTEG, as well as gender balance and equitable geographical representation. A notification announcing the composition of the multidisciplinary AHTEG will be issued once the selection process is complete. Please accept, Madam/Sir, the assurances of my highest consideration.

Acting Executive Secretary

To: CBD national focal points, cc: SBSTTA national focal points, Cartagena Protocol national focal points