Community Member, Ethics Committee

The University of Newcastle – Callaghan NSW Animal Care & Ethics Committee Member The University of Newcastle has an independent Animal Care and Ethics Committee (ACEC) which oversees the care and welfare of animals used in research and teaching. The ACEC is made up of both academic members from the University and people representing a cross section of the community (e.g. lay people, veterinary scientists, animal welfare representatives). We currently have vacancies on the Universitys ACEC for members as follows. Individuals with proven commitment and experience in promoting animal welfare, who are independent of the institution and not currently involved in animal care or use for scientific purposes. Veterinarians with relevant welfare expertise may qualify. Ideally, the person should be endorsed by, and actively involved in, an animal welfare organisation. A person with qualifications in veterinary science that are recognised and registered as a veterinary surgeon in Australia, and with experience relevant to the institution's activities or the ability to acquire relevant knowledge. Members would be appointed to the ACEC for a two-year term. This is a voluntary role with a small honorarium paid to support meeting attendance. This position would suit someone who has flexible working arrangements, works part time or is retired. There are 11 meetings a year, generally held the fourth Friday of the month, at Callaghan campus. Morning tea and parking will be provided on meeting days. Meetings are held from 8.30am to 11.30am (approximately) depending on the number of agenda items. Although it is preferred that you attend in person, video conferencing is available via Zoom. No prior experience in animal ethics is required but basic computer skills are desirable. Training through an online induction process is compulsory and members would need to familiarise themselves with the Australian Code for the Care and use of Animals for Scientific Purposes. Members are provided with ongoing support from the animal ethics team. Responsibilities Provide an independent and objective perspective for the ethical review of applications concerning the care and use of animals. Participate in discussions during committee meetings to help reach a consensus on proposals that are ethically acceptable and meet the Code's requirements. Occasionally serve on the Executive Committee to review submissions for projects that do not require full ACEC review, allowing for out-of-session approvals. Participate in routine inspections of facilities or properties accredited as animal research establishments. Qualifications Individuals with proven commitment and experience in promoting animal welfare, independent of the institution, not currently involved in animal care or use for scientific purposes. Veterinarians or similar professionals with relevant welfare expertise, ideally endorsed by an animal welfare organisation. A person with recognised veterinary science qualifications, registered as a veterinary surgeon in Australia, and with experience relevant to the institution's activities or the ability to acquire relevant knowledge. Basic computer skills desirable. No prior experience in animal ethics required. Commitment: Regular – more than 6 months. Type of Work: Research, Policy & Analysis, Working with Animals. Time Required: The approximate time commitment is six hours per week, with additional time required for reviewing applications in the week leading up to a meeting. Training: No prior experience required, but basic computer skills are desirable. Online training will be provided. #J-18808-Ljbffr