The TRDRP enabling legislation calls for the appointment of a Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) to advise the University on the direction and supervision of the research program. As specified in the legislation, members represent major California organizations involved in health research. SAC members are chosen by the Executive Director - Special Research Programs from a list of nominees submitted by the organizations represented on the SAC or from experts in a given category. Members serve for three-year terms without compensation and are prohibited from seeking funding from TRDRP during their tenure.

The SAC is charged with developing the strategic objectives and priorities for the program, and with making final recommendations on the funding of individual research grants. Their recommendation is based on the program’s established priorities and the scientific merit of each proposal as determined by a peer review panel.