The regulatory function is vital in making safe and effective healthcare products available worldwide. Individuals who ensure regulatory compliance and prepare submissions, as well as those whose main job function is clinical affairs or quality assurance are all considered regulatory professionals.

Regulatory professionals are employed in industry, government and academia and are involved with a wide range of products, including:

• pharmaceuticals
• medical devices
• in vitro diagnostics
• biologics and biotechnology
• nutritional products
• cosmetics
• veterinary products

The regulatory professional's roles and responsibilities often begin in the research and development phases, moving into clinical trials and extending through premarket approvals, manufacturing, labeling and advertising, and postmarket surveillance.

Core Competencies

Like all professions, regulatory is based on a shared set of competencies. The Regulatory Competency Framework describes the essential elements of what is required of regulatory professionals at four major career and professional levels. The Framework breaks down the profession’s basic competencies into clear, easy-to-understand statements and provides a foundation for regulatory professionals, regulators and employers to design training, develop curriculum, and manage professional and career development.