Advisory and program board leadership opportunities
Build experience and impact family medicine through advisory and program board roles.
Ready to take on a focused leadership role? The AAFP advisory and program boards give residents a chance to shape education and research initiatives while developing essential leadership and communication skills. These short-term positions offer hands-on experience, mentorship and national exposure. When you participate, you can influence family medicine’s future while advancing your career.
Explore AAFP advisory and program board roles
Join an advisory group or program board to shape education and outreach efforts. These groups guide the direction of major initiatives and provide short-term leadership experience with meaningful impact.
Advisory and program board opportunities
Work on the most-read journal in primary care. AFP is peer reviewed, editorially independent clinical content published for and by family physicians.
Eligibility: Must show interest in writing and editing
Time commitment away from residency: Approximately 2–3 days
Funding: FUTURE travel covered by the AAFP; editorial travel covered by AFP
Learn more about responsibilities, eligibility, application requirements and meeting schedules
Work on a peer-reviewed clinical research journal dedicated to advancing knowledge essential to understanding and improving health and primary care.
Eligibility: Must demonstrate an interest in research and familiarity with using social media platforms for academic or clinical engagement
Time commitment away from residency: Approximately 2–4 days
Funding: $1,000 travel reimbursement for the North American Primary Care Research Group (NAPCRG)
Learn more about responsibilities, eligibility, application requirements and meeting schedules
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to be a member to apply?
Yes. You must be an AAFP resident member in good standing for nearly all roles. Most positions require you to be a member at the time you apply, but there’s no minimum membership length unless noted in the eligibility criteria. Some also require American Medical Association (AMA) or Society of Teachers of Family Medicine (STFM) membership.
How much experience do I need?
Some positions require prior national AAFP experience, but others, such as chapter delegate or Congress of Delegates roles, do not.
What support will I receive?
The AAFP provides mentorship, onboarding and staff support. You’ll also connect with a network of experienced leaders who can help guide your work.
Are expenses covered?
Yes. Most positions include travel funding and a per diem to cover meals and lodging, but you should review the description for the specific job for clarity on what is and isn’t covered.
What kind of time commitment is expected?
Time commitments vary depending on the role. Some advisory groups meet a few times per year, while others may involve travel and more frequent meetings. Most positions are designed to be manageable alongside residency training.
Does my program have to approve?
Yes. Most roles require a letter of endorsement from your residency director confirming time off for required meetings.
How do I get started?
Applications or nominations for most leadership roles open in the winter or spring. Deadlines and instructions are posted on the AAFP website and sent by email. Some roles are elected during annual conferences (e.g., FMX, FUTURE).
Will this help my career?
Yes. Leadership roles help you build confidence, improve communication and expand your network. Many residents say these experiences helped shape their future career paths, strengthen their resumes and deepen their commitment to family medicine.
Can I serve in more than one role?
In most cases, you can only hold one national leadership role at a time to ensure broad participation. However, you may serve at the state level while holding a national advisory or liaison position, depending on the timing and structures of the roles.
What if I’m not sure which opportunity is right for me?
That’s okay. Start by exploring a few different roles and talking with current or former resident leaders. You can also reach out to AAFP staff or your chapter leadership for guidance.