The University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) is seeking an Animal Ethics Committee (AEC) Chairperson. The primary responsibility of the UniSC AEC is to ensure, on behalf of the university, that all activities relating to the care and use of animals are conducted in compliance with the Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes (the Code).
Applicants can be UniSC staff members or external to UniSC. The chairperson must be willing to actively lead and contribute to AEC meetings and must possess high standards of integrity, effective interpersonal skills, and the ability to interpret legislation and policy. Current or previous research experience in the animal sciences, ethics committee experience, and/or senior academic experience will be highly regarded.
Current UniSC employees appointed as Chairperson will receive a workload allocation, subject to discussion and approval with their supervisor. External appointees will receive remuneration. This recognises the time required to review submissions, chair AEC meetings, perform executive duties, and provide advice and guidance between meetings.
Responsibilities
- To uphold the responsibilities of an AEC Chairperson and apply the governing principles set out in the Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes, the AEC terms of reference, the AEC operating guidelines and UniSC policy and procedures.
- To provide leadership and impartial guidance in relation to the responsible conduct of research on animals as per the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research and the Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes.
- To impartially guide the operation of the AEC, resolving conflicts of interest related to the business of the AEC, and representing the AEC in any negotiations with the institution’s management.
Specific duties to be undertaken
- Chair AEC meetings to ensure that the views of all members are considered and that consensus-based decisions are made where possible.
- Contribute to the review of animal ethics submissions and consider the ethical implications of animal use for scientific purposes.
- Apply the principles of the Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes and to consult other guidelines relevant to the review of specific research and teaching proposals.
- Act as a decision maker as part of the AEC Executive.
- Promote staff, student and AEC member awareness of relevant legislation, policies, procedures and guidelines.
- Contribute to UniSC and external regulator reporting requirements.
- Review and comment on institutional plans and policies that may affect animal welfare and animal research.
- The chair’s other responsibilities must not impair the AEC’s capacity to carry out its obligations under the Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes.
Knowledge, skills, and experience
- The chairperson will require suitable experience in line with the responsibilities and
- duties outlined above. Current or previous experience in animal sciences, ethics committee experience, and/or senior academic experience will be highly regarded.
- Effective decision-making skills
- Ability to facilitate and actively lead meetings
- Ability to review project proposals, amendments, reports and internal documents
- High standards of integrity and professionalism
- Effective interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively
- Ability to interpret policy and legislation and apply it sensibly
Training provided
- All AEC members are provided with training and ongoing professional development opportunities.
Time frame and/or attendance requirements
- Currently, the AEC meets six times per year. This may increase in future.
- Meetings are held on Tuesday mornings from 10 am to 12 pm.
- The time required to review submissions will vary for each meeting, and in between meetings the chairperson acts as a decision maker as part of the AEC Executive.
- The chair communicates regularly with the Animal Ethics and Biosafety Coordinator and the Animal Welfare Officer and provides advice as required.
- Other meetings may be scheduled as required.
Location of work
- AEC agendas and submission are distributed electronically via a UniSC collaboration site.
- AEC meetings are held at UniSC, 90 Sippy Downs Drive, Sippy Downs, QLD 4556 with the option to join remotely if required.
UniSC is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, women in STEM, First Nations Peoples, and individuals of diverse cultures, genders, abilities, and experiences. We value achievement relative to opportunity and encourage your commentary on your achievements in this context.
For more information, please contact
Ms Angela Bestard
Animal Ethics and Biosafety Coordinator
[email protected]
Ph: +61 7 5459 4574
To apply, please submit a cover letter outlining your relevant skills and experience and a current CV by Sunday 30 August 2026.
