UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE ANIMAL CARE & ETHICS COMMITTEE MEMBER (Layperson) The University of Newcastle has an independent Animal Care and Ethics Committee (ACEC) which oversees the care and welfare of animals used in research and teaching. The ACEC is made up of both academic members from the University and people representing a cross section of the community (e.g. lay people, veterinary scientists, animal welfare representatives). We currently have vacancies on the University’s ACEC for community members as follows: (i) Persons with demonstrable commitment to, and established experience in, furthering the welfare of animals, who is not employed by or otherwise associated with the institution, and who is not currently involved in the care and use of animals for scientific purposes. Veterinarians with specific animal welfare interest and experience may meet the requirements of this category. While not representing an animal welfare organisation, the person should, where possible, be selected based on active membership of, and endorsement by, such an organisation. (ii) Persons not employed by or otherwise associated with the institution and who has never been involved in the use of animals in scientific or teaching activities, either in their employment or beyond their undergraduate education. These members should be viewed by the wider community as bringing a completely independent view to the ACEC and must not fit the requirements of any other category. Members would be appointed to the ACEC for a two-year term. This is a voluntary role with a small honorarium paid to support meeting attendance . This position would suit someone who has flexible working arrangements, works part time or is retired. There are 11 meetings a year, generally held the fourth Friday of the month, at Callaghan campus. Morning tea and parking will be provided on meeting days. Meetings are held from 8.30am – 11.30am (approximately) depending on the number of agenda items. Although it is preferred that you attend in person, video conferencing is available via Zoom. No prior experience in animal ethics is required but basic computer skills are desirable. Training through an online induction process is compulsory and members would need to familiarise themselves with the Australian Code for the Care and use of Animals for Scientific Purposes. Members are provided with ongoing support from the animal ethics team. Your Responsibilities: • Provide an independent and objective perspective for the ethical review of applications concerning the care and use of animals. • Participate in discussions during committee meetings to help reach a consensus on proposals that are ethically acceptable and meet the Code's requirements. • Occasionally serve on the Executive Committee to review submissions for projects that do not require full ACEC review, allowing for out-of-session approvals. • Participate in routine inspections of facilities or properties accredited as animal research establishments.