- Make a difference!
- Empower ground-breaking research with purpose and integrity.
About QIMR Berghofer:
QIMR Berghofer is a world-leading translational medical research institute focused on improving health by developing new diagnostics, better treatments and prevention strategies, specifically in the areas of Cancer, Infection and Inflammation, Brain and Mental Health, and Population Health. Based in Herston, Brisbane and working in close collaboration with clinicians and other research institutes, QIMR Berghofer is home to more than 600 scientists, students and non-research staff.
About QIMR Berghofer Animal Ethics Committee (AEC):
The AEC is a committee established by the Council of the Queensland Institute of Medical Research. The Committee plays a critical governance role in ensuring:
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The use animals for scientific purposes is ethically justifiable and responsibly conducted
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All activities comply with the Australian Code for the Care and Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes (the Code).
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Animal welfare standards are upheld through monitoring and facility inspections.
Role Purpose / Responsibilities:
The appointment is for an initial period of three years and may be renewed by mutual agreement.
The AEC Chairperson will:
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Provide independent leadership of the AEC in accordance with relevant legislation, the Code, AEC Terms of Reference, and institutional policies, and procedures.
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Impartially guide the operation of the AEC, including managing conflicts of interest and representing the AEC in any interactions with Institute leadership.
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Facilitate robust, balanced and consensus-based decision-making on the ethical acceptability of research proposals.
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Promote constructive engagement with investigators and foster a culture of ethical animal research practice.
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Ensure decisions are fair, transparent and defensible, balancing scientific merit and animal welfare.
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Lead approximately nine AEC meetings throughout the year ensuring effective and timely review of applications, amendments, and reports.
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Chair weekly executive reviews and undertake out-of-session reviews as required.
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Ensure the Institute is aware of any matters that impact animal welfare or the function of the AEC, and recommend appropriate corrective actions.
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Provide leadership to support continuous improvement and best practice in animal welfare across the Institute.
About you:
You will bring:
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Demonstrated experience as a Committee Chair, Board member or equivalent governance role.
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An understanding of the Code, and/or other relevant legislation (or ability to rapidly acquire this knowledge)
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Professional experience in an area relevant to the position.
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Exceptional communication, facilitation, interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
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Strong leadership capability, including the ability to guide discussions and achieve consensus.
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Proven ability to manage meeting effectively, maintain focus on key issues, and clearly articulate outcomes.
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Previous experience on an Animal Ethics Committee or similar body is desirable.
Time Commitment
Meeting agendas are distributed by the Research Ethics Secretary approximately two weeks in advance. Members are expected to review materials prior to meetings. Time commitment will vary depending on application volume; however, candidates should expect on average up to 12 hours per meeting cycle, in addition to meeting attendance and executive reviews.
Remuneration: The Chair will be remunerated for the workload associated with the position, including preparation and follow-up actions for meetings in accordance with Qld Government Procedures for Part-Time Chairs and Members of Queensland Government Bodies.
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Parking is provided at Herston for members while on QIMR Berghofer-HREC business.
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Reasonable expenses incurred in undertaking the role will be reimbursed.
For further information: please contact Jazmina Gonzalez Cruz, Senior Manager of Research Ethics and Regulatory Affairs, [email protected]
Closing Date: Friday, 3rd July 2026
To submit an application: use the APPLY button. All applicants must supply the following documents: Resume and Cover letter addressing the selection criteria outlined in the Position Description.
Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa. Work eligibility will be checked as part of the recruitment process.
