A client prioritized a workstream aimed at ensuring FDA reviewers were well trained on cutting-edge science. Catalyst was tasked with advancing this client goal in a manner that created mutual benefits for both the client and the FDA.
Strategy
Researched emerging cutting-edge technologies throughout the client’s field of interest.
Worked with regulators to ensure horizon-scanning activity would be informative to Agency staff and complement ongoing Agency activities.
Prepared and published an emerging technologies horizon scan, looking forward 10 years.
Coordinated with FDA staff to poll Agency interest in the scientific topics of interest, based on the Catalyst horizon scan findings.
Established a series of quarterly “lunch-and-learns” to engage a broad swath of interested parties, ranging from Agency leadership and reviewers to scientists.
Recruited, with client guidance, top expert scientists in emerging fields to present both the science and identify foreseeable hurdles that would need addressing for the field to succeed.
Worked with scientists and a broad group of interests to create presentations conveying complicated science that targeted participants with a wide range of scientific backgrounds.
Impact
Satisfaction surveys, circulated to the 100+ FDA staff that attended each “lunch and learn,” rewarded the effort with high satisfaction ratings and support for the continuance of the program.
Surveys also indicated that participants recognized potential future hurdles, and how to clear them in the future.