Each year, the PhD cohort at BCDSS votes to nominate a PhD Representative and deputy (two deputies in special situations) to serve on the center's Steering Committee. The nominees are then elected for a one-year term by the BCDSS General Assembly. David B. Smith currently serves as the PhD Representative; Lena Muders served as the Deputy PhD Representative until going on parental leave in April 2023, at which time Ayesha Hussain officially took up the deputy position. The current team will serve until December 31st, 2023.