Job Title
Chairperson, Animal EthicsJob Description
About the Position
The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute (WEHI) are seeking to appoint a new Chair for its Animal Ethics Committee (AEC).The AEC Chair will fulfill the requirements under the NHMRC Australian Code for the Care and use of Animals for Scientific Purposes (the Code). With the support of the Ethics and Integrity staff and Bioservices, the Chair will coordinate the management of the AEC and the review of WEHI’s animal research. The position will also assist with the development of animal research, ethics policy, training and communications.
WEHI has a proud history of delivering transformative discoveries through the study of animals that have helped millions of people around the world. We recognize that these studies must be performed at the highest standard, with strong systems to safeguard animal welfare. We are committed to transparency regarding the use of animals in research and are a founding signatory to the Openness Agreement on Animal Research and Teaching in Australia.
As governed by legislation, the AEC is an authorised body formed to ensure that research and training involving live non-human vertebrates and higher-order invertebrates used for research and training purposes at WEHI is conducted at the highest standard and that all such undertakings are reviewed and approved by the AEC.
The AEC must apply the principles outlined in the Code when determining whether the use of animals is to be approved; ensure that provisions are made for the welfare of all animals used in research and training; and oversee compliance with the principles of Replacement, Reduction and Refinement as described in the Code. The AEC is also responsible for monitoring and inspecting all animal facilities and provision of advice on plans for changes and development to animal facilities and holding areas. The role will involve both providing expert advice to key WEHI stakeholders as well as providing out of session commitment to support the smooth functioning of the AEC and the welfare of the animals at the Institute. The Chair will engage with stakeholders at WEHI, the senior leadership and the WEHI Board of Directors.
Selection Criteria
Essential Knowledge and Skills:
Previous board or committee experience particularly in the capacity of Chair
A sound understanding of the principles of administrative law decision making
Demonstrated ability for fairness and impartiality in decision making
Demonstrated ability for inclusiveness for Committee discussions and decision making
Sound decision making skills based on justifiable grounds
Knowledge of medical research
An understanding of the Code and its application to biomedical research
Desirable Knowledge and Skills:
Membership of an Animal Ethics Committee, either currently or recently, would be beneficial
Strong knowledge of veterinary medicine and/or animal welfare would be highly regarded
Personal Qualities:
An ability to listen to and appreciate the views of a diverse group of stakeholders, and to formulate and express a considered and ethical opinion
The capacity to understand important ethical issues and how these relate to the Code, and other relevant legislation or policies
Effective Committee management including conflict resolution and decision-making consistency
Basic computer literacy and the capacity to work online and by email
A detailed list of key responsibilities is included in the position description below.
Terms of Appointment
The Chair is appointed in a part time capacity (0.2 FTE) for an initial term of two years. The Chair must be approved by the regulator. Salary remuneration will be determined based on experience. Up to 17% superannuation and very attractive salary packaging options are available.
General enquiries can be directed to A/Prof Ian Majewski (majewski@wehi.edu.au) or recruitment@wehi.edu.au.
A position description is available here.
How to Apply
Please apply by uploading your CV, cover letter and a document addressing the key selection criteria in pdf format.
We will be reviewing applications as they come through and we may appoint this position at any time.
Application Closing Date: Tuesday 9 December 2025.