The University is committed to ensuring that our research meets the highest standards of research ethics and integrity. We are looking to recruit one full term member (3 years) and one temporary member (October- February 2026) within the Biomedical Research Ethics Committee. We are also looking to recruit two full term members (3 years) within the Social Sciences Research Ethics Committee.
Three of the positions are available for 36 months in the first instance, and one of the positions (on the Biomedical Research Ethics Committee) is available for 4 months. All of the positions attract 80 hours in the workload allocation model.
The Biomedical Research Ethics Committee considers the research ethics implications of projects in the biosciences that involve data from human participants that do not require NHS REC approval. This committee is Chaired by Dr Lee Moore.
The Social Sciences Research Ethics Committee considers projects involving human participants that do not require NHS REC approval and are outside of the remit of all other research ethics committees. This can include projects from social sciences, natural sciences, psychology, engineering and architecture (not an exhaustive list). This Committee is Chaired by Professor David Ellis.
What are we looking for?
Members of our research ethics committees are passionate about research ethics, keen to support researchers (staff and students), and help develop our shared culture around ethics and integrity. As part of our commitment to driving a continued improvement in our research culture and approach to research ethics we would like to encourage applications from traditionally or currently underrepresented communities. We would also like to hear from people:
- who have experience with research in the fields of International Development or Pharmacy
- with a strong personal commitment to ensuring research meets the highest standards
- who can understand and analyse complex issues from research proposals and weigh up conflicting opinions
- who are able to take an objective stance, looking at a situation from several perspectives
- who are good communicators and confident to voice their opinions and discuss issues with people who may not agree with them
- who are committed to the public service values of accountability, probity, openness and equality of opportunity
- who understand the requirement for confidentiality
- who are IT literate and comfortable reviewing documents electronically
Who can apply?
If you are a University of Bath academic member of staff we would be interested to hear from you. Even if you have no current experience, we will support your development in this area. Regardless of your level of expertise you will gain a wealth of skills and will have access to training.
What is expected from you?
Members work as part of a committee and use their skills and personal experience to reach decisions about applications. Prior to the meeting you will be expected to read the meeting papers electronically. The term of office, for a full-time position, will be for 3 years in the first instance. The term of office for the cover position will be for 4 months. Meetings will be held (both in-person and online) once a month (with the exception of August) for 2 hours. Maternity/sabbatical cover will be managed on a fixed term basis.
What can we offer you?
You will gain an in-depth understanding of research ethics and will contribute to improving the quality of the research at the University. We will provide you with induction and training to facilitate the role and during your time you will learn valuable skills and experience in an interesting area where you can really make a difference. Membership of each committee has been work loaded as 80 hours per academic year.
If this role is of interest to you, please complete the online application form at the link below and include:
- a statement (one page maximum), outlining your relevant skills, experience and reasons why this role interests you
- letter of support from Head of Department/Line Manager
If you have any queries, please contact us at research-ethics@bath.ac.uk.