The University of Essex is seeking individuals interested in joining the University Ethics Committee in a voluntary capacity as an External Member. We are looking for people interested in research to offer their expertise and enthusiasm to help ensure our research practices meet recognised best practice and ethical standards.The roleThe University Ethics Committee is responsible on behalf of Senate for the development, implementation and monitoring of policies, procedures, codes of practice and guidelines in relation to research and taught ethics, working within the University’s ethics framework. The Committee also has oversight of the operation of ethics review throughout the University.Research ethics review forms an important part of the oversight of the University’s research involving human participants, ensuring that the dignity, rights and welfare of research participants are protected and that research is conducted safely and effectively. To obtain a balanced view of potential ethical issues before a project begins, the Committee includes up to eight members of the general public in addition to technical experts from across the University.Who are we looking forThe University is seeking to appoint new external members to join our Ethics Committee and to provide an independent view of its work. This also includes ensuring the effective operation of ethics review of research undertaken by academic staff and students at all levels, in accordance with agreed University policies and procedures.An external member should be independent of the University. They should therefore not have worked or studied at the University within the last five years or have a spouse, partner, or close relative working or studying at the University.
An external member:
Induction training will be offered to equip you to carry out this role.What would I be expected to do and how much time will be involved?The Committee currently meets virtually three times a year, and meetings normally last no more than two hours. If this arrangement changes in the foreseeable future, meetings will be held in a fully accessible room, with car parking spaces located close by. External members will not receive payment for their attendance and involvement with the Committee, but will be reimbursed for reasonable travel costs (under the University’s standard conditions). Before each meeting, members will be asked to read all papers relevant to the meeting. An induction session is provided before the start of the first meeting of the academic year to explain the work of the Ethics Committee and its Sub-Committees as well as general ethical principles.How do I apply?Informal enquiries regarding the role should be directed to Professor Chris Greer, Chair of the Ethics Committee. Email: chris.greer@essex.ac.uk.If you are interested in applying for the position of external member to the Ethics Committee, please send a copy of your CV and your completed application form (please see attached) to Dr Mantalena Sotiriadou, Research Integrity Manager (email: ms21994@essex.ac.uk) no later than 09 April 2024.