Employment Opportunities

Volunteer Community Member – University of Ottawa REB

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Volunteer Community Member – University of Ottawa REB

The University of Ottawa Research Ethics Boards (REBs) are currently looking for community members.

The University of Ottawa REBs were established as required under Article 6.1 of the Tri-Council Policy Statement:  Ethical Conduct for Research Involving Humans (2018, 2nd ed.). The REBs play an important role in supporting researchers in their pursuit of excellence in research by ensuring that all research involving human participants is conducted according to the highest ethical standards. The effectiveness of the REBs relies on the collective engagement, expertise and wisdom of its members.

Role on the REB: Community member

The role of community members on REBs during the ethics review process is unique and at arm’s length from the institution. Their primary role is to reflect the perspective of the participant.

The community members shall not be affiliated with the institution, and should not currently be engaged in research or legal work as their principal activities.

Mandate end: June 30, 2025 (3 years)

Time commitment: an average of 5h/month, including monthly REB meetings.

Summary of responsibilities: review the ethical acceptability of projects submitted to the REB and attend the monthly REB meetings.

  • Each member is assigned an average of 2 – 4 files each month.
  • REB meetings are typically held the 3rd week of each month (except December – no REB meeting). These are currently held via Zoom, but some in-person meetings may eventually be held at the University.
  • All members should be able to read both French and English files, but their feedback can be provided in the language of their choice. Note, however, that both languages are spoken during meetings so at a minimum, verbal comprehension of both languages is needed.

Training:

·         Observation of one REB meeting

·         Completion of the TCPS2 online tutorial

·         Group or individual training with a Protocol Officer

This is an unpaid, volunteer position.

If you have any questions, please contact Catherine Paquet, Director, Office of Research Ethics and Integrity at cpaquet@uOttawa.ca or at ext. 1787. Please provide a letter of interest and your CV if you are interested.

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