The University of Technology Sydney (UTS) is seeking expressions of interest for membership on its Human Research Ethics Committees:

1. UTS Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC)
2. UTS Health and Medical Research Committee (MREC)

These are Vice-Chancellor’s advisory committees that reports to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research). They are constituted and operates in accordance with the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research (2007) (National Statement). Their role is to undertake ethical and scientific review of research, to assess and minimise risk, balance risk with benefits and ensure research participants' privacy, welfare and rights are fully protected.

Categories of membership

Expressions of interest are open for the following membership categories:

• Category C: A person with knowledge of, and current experience in, the professional care or treatment of people; for example, a nurse, counsellor or allied health professional
• Category D: A person who performs a pastoral care role in a community, including, but not limited to, an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander elder or community leader, a chaplain or a minister or religion or other religious leader.
• Category E: a qualified lawyer, who may or may not be currently practicing, and where possible, is not engaged to advise the institution on research-related or any other matters.

We are seeking two full-time Category D members and one Category E member for the MREC and one Category C member for the HREC. We also have auxiliary membership opportunities available for all categories.

Membership requirements:

1. Familiarity with the Australian code for the responsible conduct of research (the Code) and National Statement, and a sincere and strong commitment to upholding both.
2. Alignment with one of the categories (c-e) listed above.
3. Commitment to attend at least 80% of the meetings held during each year of their appointment.

Additional details (fine print)

1. Meetings are held on the first Tuesday (HREC) or Thursday (MREC) of each month from February to December (11 meetings per year), with some exceptions.
2. The expected time commitment from successful candidates is approximately 1 day per month. This includes attendance at meetings and review of applications using the online system.
3. The position is voluntary, and for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of re-appointment for an additional term of two years at the discretion of the Committee Executive and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research).
4. External members receive an honorarium for each meeting they attend.
5. Formal induction and training on the use of the online system, and an introduction to the National Statement, is provided on commencement of the role

Auxiliary members are invited to attend meetings on an ad hoc basis, generally 2-4 times per year depending on need and availability. Availability to review is always confirmed prior to allocation to a meeting.

To apply, please provide a copy of your current CV and the application form found by clicking 'Apply now.

Expressions of interest will remain open until all available positions have been filled. If your expression of interest is successful, you will be invited to attend a meeting (unpaid) before being formally invited to join the committee.