The Medical Sciences Interdivisional Research Ethics Committee of the University of Oxford is seeking to appoint an external lay member. Their role will be to review applications for ethics approval for research investigations in Medical Sciences and Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences, where this involves human volunteers and/or their personal data. They will also contribute to the development of university policies and procedures for such research.
Applicants should have an interest in contributing to ethical review and helping to ensure that the dignity, rights and welfare of all those involved in research is protected. Specific academic qualifications or ethical expertise are not necessary. Experience within commercial or public administration, community organisations, education, welfare services, the charitable sector, or healthcare, whilst not exhaustive, could all be relevant.
Above all, desirable qualities are:
• an ability to look with objectivity at issues identified in a research proposal, demonstrating sound judgement
• the availability, willingness and aptitude to comment regularly and promptly on ethics applications via email
• capacity to attend termly ethics meetings in person in Oxford (held in October, January and May).
We are looking for people who are not affiliated in any way with any university and not involved in research involving human participants or personal data.
The anticipated time commitment is approximately 3 hours per week, plus attendance at 3 meetings per year – held in Oxford (maximum 2 hours per meeting).
Reimbursement
This is an unpaid post, but reasonable travel costs will be reimbursed. Members will therefore need to live within reasonable travel distance from Oxford.
Date required
31 December 2023
Organisation
Medical Sciences Interdivisional Research Ethics Committee / Research Services
Contact
Helen Barnby-Porritt: ethics@medsci.ox.ac.uk
For more details, follow this link.