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  3. Jennifer Bernat Ph,D. and M.S., Supervisory Social Scientist
  1. About FDA

Jennifer Bernat Ph,D. and M.S., Supervisory Social Scientist

-Jennifer Bernat Ph,D. and M.S., Supervisory Social Scientist

Jennifer Bernat Ph,D. and M.S., Supervisory Social Scientist

How did your career begin at FDA?

In 2015, I started my FDA career as a social scientist in the Center for Tobacco Products, Office of Science, Division of Population Health Science. Though I did not have a tobacco research background, my social and behavioral science training gave me all the necessary tools to succeed. The social science branches at CTP, evaluate precursors to tobacco use and how tobacco use is affected by tobacco communications. We complete work in three overlapping areas: research, application review, and policy. We conduct research to inform application review and policy. We review industry-submitted applications to help CTP make marketing order determinations. Lastly, we contribute to CTP policy work including drafting sections of tobacco product standards, rules, and guidances. Fast forward to the present, and I’m still in the same Center/Office/Division; however, now, I’m leading the work as one of the social science branch chiefs. 

What do you value most about working at FDA?

I value our collaborative culture. There is no competition, and we are all working towards the same mission. I feel like I am in a truly “team science” environment where we utilize a multidisciplinary approach to decision-making.

What are you most proud of in terms of your work at FDA?

I sought a career at FDA because my values align with FDA’s broad mission of protecting the public health. I am proud that my work directly impacts behavior through regulation instead of being buried somewhere in a scientific journal.

What advice would you give to an FDA job seeker?

I advise FDA job seekers to start early, network, and don’t give up. Applying for federal jobs is a completely different process than applying for academic or industry positions. First, familiarize yourself with USAjobs.gov and work on drafting your federal resume. Once a position of interest is posted, read the job announcement thoroughly and gather all required materials. Make sure you tailor your resume to the specific position and clearly communicate your skills and experience. The CTP Corporate Recruitment Team can help you tailor your resume. Check out this webpage: Need Assistance "Federalizing" your Resume? (https://www.fda.gov/media/176684/download?attachment) Second, build your FDA network. Schedule informational interviews and connect with FDA employees on LinkedIn or at conferences. Third, don’t give up! I applied to several federal jobs before I even got an interview. Stick with it because the job you get will be worth the effort. 

When you're not at work, what is your favorite way to unwind?

I love to unwind with a yoga class, a matcha latte, and exploring nature with my family.

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