Animal Ethics Committee - Category C member (Animal Welfare)

The La Trobe University Animal Ethics Committee (AEC) reviews ethics applications relating to the care and use of animals for scientific purposes in accordance with the Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes 8th Edition 2013 (updated 2021).  The AEC considers ethical issues related to animal research, reviews the conduct of animal research, identifies risks, and promotes ethical and humane animal research.

We are currently seeking expressions of interest for the following category of membership:

• Animal Ethics Committee Category C (Animal Welfare)

Members of the La Trobe University Animal Ethics Committee are required to:

• Become familiar with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986 (POCTA) and the Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes 8th Edition 2013 (updated 2021) (The Code).
• Ensure that the use of animals for scientific purposes or other approved investigative purpose is ethically justified, provides for their welfare and incorporates the principles of Replacement, Reduction and Refinement.
• Attend at the scheduled meetings in the calendar year (once a month, 11/year).
• Meetings are a blended model (face-to-face at Bundoora or online via ZOOM) and held monthly on a Thursday from 9:30 am to 1:00 pm.
• Review applications and other related documents and make recommendations regarding the ethical acceptability of projects being undertaken by La Trobe University staff and students.
• Attend animal facility inspections.
• Maintain confidentiality of the Committee’s proceedings.  A Confidentiality Agreement will be executed.

Selection Criteria

• Be committed to furthering the welfare of animals and have an awareness of current

community animal welfare concerns.

• Have established experience in animal welfare.
• Not be employed by or otherwise associated with La Trobe University.
• Not be involved in the care and use of animals for scientific purposes.

The appointment will be for a 3 year term. Benefits include continued training and professional development and contribution to the conduct of ethical animal research. Induction training is provided to all new members prior to their commencement on the Committee. Though Committee members are volunteers, an honorarium to cover expenses associated with attending meetings is provided.  The Committee is supported by the Ethics, Integrity and Biosafety team, in the Research Office at La Trobe University.

Expression of Interest Submissions

Expressions of Interest can be submitted to Senior Manager Ethics, Integrity, and Biosafety at [email protected].  Expressions of Interest should include a brief statement outlining your interest in joining the Committee and a biography or abridged resume.

If you would like further information about this position, please contact Dr Lina Laskos Yiannoudes, Senior Manager Ethics, Integrity and Biosafety, phone +61 3 9479 1443 / 0401 928 747 or email [email protected].