We are seeking passionate, enthusiastic and committed people from a range of backgrounds to join our Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC). 

About the role

Operation of the committee is governed by the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research. 

The responsibility of the committee is to consider planned AIFS research project proposals to determine whether the proposed research meets the ethical guidelines designed to prevent harm to human research participants, and also meets the requirement of respect for participants.

As an ethics committee member, you will attend up to four half-day committee meetings a year and prepare for these in advance. At times, you will also participate in expedited reviews in a timely manner. 

Who are we?

AIFS is the Australian Government’s key independent research body and advisor in the area of family wellbeing, based in Melbourne. We have entered our 40th year of conducting research and providing independent advice to policy makers, service providers and the community about factors affecting family wellbeing. 

Expressions of interest are sought from people in the following: 

Lay persons – people who have no affiliation with the Institute and do not currently engage in medical, scientific, legal or academic work

Researchers – active researchers from university and non-university settings

Pastoral care – people who perform a pastoral care role in the community

Professionals – people with current professional knowledge and experience in the treatment of people in a counselling or caring role (e.g. nurse or allied health professional)

Lawyers – practising lawyers

Time commitment

The term of this appointment is two years. Members are expected to attend 2–3 meetings a year on a rotating basis. On occasion, members may be asked to review applications out of session (an expedited review). 

Remuneration

Members are remunerated for face-to-face attendance. Remuneration is based on the Remuneration Tribunal (Remuneration and Allowances for Holders of Part-time Public Office) Determination 2019 Compilation No. 6 www.remtribunal.gov.au/search?search=Compilation+No+6. 

Expression of Interest

Download more information at aifs.gov.au/about-us/working-aifs/jobs, or view the position statement attached.

Enquiries

For further information please contact the Ethics Secretariat on (03) 9214 7888. 

The Institute welcomes applications from the diverse Australian community including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and people with disability, people of all ages and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.