About the U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP)

USP is an independent, scientific nonprofit organization focused on building trust in the supply of safe, quality medicines. We are working to strengthen the global supply chain so that the medicines people rely on for health are available when needed and work as expected.

For over 200 years, USP has worked to build trust where it matters most: in the world's medicines, dietary supplements and foods. Through our rigorous science and the public quality standards we set, USP helps protect patient safety and improve the health of people around the world.

Our History and Our Future

Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging at USP: Empowering a healthier tomorrow

USP aspires to be a diverse, inclusive, innovative, and engaging organization that empowers and engages staff and volunteers to contribute to its mission to improve global health. We are committed to creating a culture where every employee feels fully empowered and valued irrespective of, but not limited to, personality, race, ethnicity, physical and mental abilities, education, religion, gender identity and expression, life experience, sexual orientation, country of origin, regional differences, work experience, family status, and where they can contribute their full potential to accomplish our mission.

Our focus on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is intentional and designed to build a sense of true Belonging. USP’s Office of Organizational Culture, Equity & Inclusive Excellence works across the organization to ensure global staff and volunteers are equipped to understand, embrace, and integrate the principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging to achieve USP’s mission (in a way relevant to their role, function, and business processes). Additionally, USP’s vibrant Affinity Network, comprised of 11 affinity groups globally, helps drive inclusion and belonging at USP by creating a safe space for support, sharing, connection, and professional development. This network works towards increasing staff member engagement, retention and fostering a more inclusive work environment.

Governance

USP is governed by three bodies composed entirely of volunteers from around the world: the USP Convention membership, the Board of Trustees, and the Council of Experts and its Expert Committees. 

USP Convention Membership

With a mission to improve global health through public standards, it’s essential that USP be guided by broad and diverse perspectives. From the thousands of expert volunteers who have given their time to develop USP standards to the nearly 450 Convention Member Organizations committed to helping shape USP’s areas of focus, USP always prioritizes an independent and collaborative approach to its work. 

To this end, the Convention Membership represents perspectives, experiences, and expertise from across healthcare and science and from around the globe. Member Organizations are vital to USP’s ability to sustain its pivotal role in building trust where it matters most: in the world’s medicines, dietary supplements, and foods.

Board of Trustees

USP’s work is critical, complex, and rapidly evolving. Our Board of Trustees, responsible for USP’s sustainability, is comprised of experienced leaders and respected experts. Together they provide guidance and oversight that help sustain and expand USP’s impact on public health.

Council of Experts and its Expert Committees

USP standards are essential to supporting a more resilient supply of quality medicines. It’s the Council of Experts that oversees USP’s scientific and standards-setting decisions, each chairing one of USP’s Expert Committees. These leaders from around the world contribute their time, expertise, and passion to helping advance USP’s mission.