Role Description:
DPIRD is seeking Animal Ethics Committee members (Category C, A and Chairperson) to join the Department’s Animal Ethics Committee (AEC).
The primary responsibility of the AEC is to ensure, on behalf of the Department, that all activities involving animals for scientific purposes are conducted in compliance with the Australian Code for the Care and Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes (the Code) and relevant government legislation.
The role of the AEC involves but is not limited to; the assessment that the care and use of animals for scientific purposes is ethically acceptable, balancing whether the potential effects on the wellbeing of the animals involved is justified by the potential benefits to humans, animals or the environment and supporting the wellbeing of animals by applying the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement).
The DPIRD AEC members (and Chairperson) will be remunerated for their time attending any meetings, of which there are seven scheduled per year. In some urgent occasions, unscheduled meetings may occur, usually over videoconference (Teams). Members will be appointed for one term (four years) with opportunity to be re-appointed for future terms, while the Chairperson will be appointed for an indefinite term.
Category C member:
a person 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.
Category A member:
a person with qualifications in veterinary science that are recognised for registration as a veterinary surgeon in Australia, and with experience relevant to the institution’s activities or the ability to acquire relevant knowledge. For the DPIRD AEC, we are especially considering those with experience in wildlife, aquaculture, or livestock science.
Responsibilities:
• Be available to attend more than 50% of AEC meetings.
• Review submissions and documentation prior to AEC meetings.
• Provide independent recommendations on animal ethics for scientific activities.
• Be available by email to review documentation, provide comment and in some cases approve minor amendments to proposals.
How to Apply:
For more information on these board positions, email Natascha Sieg at AnimalEthicsOffice@dpird.wa.gov.au or call 0412 417 409.
To apply, please send in your resume and a cover letter describing any prior experience or interest to AnimalEthicsOffice@dpird.wa.gov.au. If selected as the preferred candidate, the Animal Ethics Office will facilitate your appointment by the Director General of DPIRD. You will receive an appointment letter, confidentiality form, and the Terms of References for your acceptance before you are appointed as Chairperson. You will then undergo an induction with the ethics office.