Opportunities Available for US Patent and Trademark Public Advisory Committees

The US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is actively seeking individuals to fill vacancies on its Patent Public Advisory Committee (PPAC) and Trademark Public Advisory Committee (TPAC). This move aims to bring in fresh perspectives and diverse viewpoints to enhance decision-making processes within the committees.

According to Kathi Vidal, the Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the USPTO, having a variety of viewpoints is crucial for robust decision-making and the thorough examination of ideas. The Advisory Committees play a pivotal role in advising the Director and supporting the USPTO's mission to promote and safeguard innovation both nationally and globally.

The upcoming term for new committee members is set to commence on December 1, 2024. Interested individuals can participate in committee activities remotely, making it accessible to a wider pool of candidates. The deadline for submitting nominations electronically is July 5, 2024.

The establishment of the Public Advisory Committees for the USPTO dates back to 1999 when the Patent and Trademark Office Efficiency Act was enacted. These committees were designed to provide guidance to the Secretary of Commerce and the Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the USPTO on the administration of patent and trademark operations. This includes aspects such as objectives, performance evaluations, financial matters, and user fees. Each committee comprises nine voting members appointed by the Secretary of Commerce, serving a term of three years.

For detailed instructions on how to submit nominations, interested parties can refer to the Federal Register Notice titled "Patent and Trademark Public Advisory Committees." This notice outlines the submission process and requirements for individuals looking to contribute to the advancement of patent and trademark operations in the United States.