California Code, Health and Safety Code - HSC § 25132

(a) The department shall establish and maintain a pool of research consultants expert in the field of hazardous waste management. The department may consult with the individual members of the pool to develop a directed approach to research in hazardous waste management. This approach shall include, but is not limited to, emphasis on interdisciplinary research into the relationships between air, water, and soils as media for the spread of hazardous substances and toxic effects in the environment. The department may utilize these research consultants as needed to implement this chapter.

(b) Individual research consultants within the pool may receive compensation as determined by the department, including per diem and reimbursement for travel expenses incurred as a result of official business.