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Ethics & Governance
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Durham University Ethics Committees Independent Member

Durham University would like to appoint members of the public to become independent members of its Ethics Committees, at Department, Faculty and University level.

Responsible ethical conduct and integrity are intrinsic to University activities and are fundamental in achieving research excellence. The University is committed to ensuring that all research and other activities are conducted with integrity and in line with ethics principles and frameworks.

Ethics committees consider ethical issues surrounding research projects (particularly at Department and Faculty level) alongside more broader topics (at University level) including international collaborations, donations and freedom of speech. 

Role Descriptor

An independent member is someone who is not employed by the University or does not have a pre-existing substantial link with it – essentially they are people with no vested interest in the University.

Independent members come from a wide range of backgrounds and occupations. Whilst qualifications and previous experience can be useful, they are not essential. More important is an interest in ethical issues, a willingness to engage with the materials and to discuss key concerns with others.

A good independent member can consider the information and take a balanced view of the benefits and risks, they should be confident in expressing themselves and be able to keep the interests of stakeholders and broader society in mind when considering topics.

Key attributes

Independent members should:

  • Be interested in ethics and supportive of developing and maintaining the highest standards and protections.
  • Be able to be objective and fair in their considerations.
  • Be a good communicator and confident to raise their opinions and discuss with others.
  • Have a strong commitment to the ethical standards of Selflessness, Integrity, Objectivity, Accountability, Openness, Honesty and Leadership.
  • Advocate for the rights and wellbeing of research participants.
  • Understand the requirements for confidentiality.
  • Be IT literate, many University committees meet physically but undertake reviews electronically too.
  • Be willing to normally commit at least 2hours a month. (Workload will depend on the committee but we will always aim to make the time commitment fit around you).

Please submit a short (500 words max) expression of interest explaining the reason you would like to become an independent member and the skills/qualities you feel you can bring to the committee via this online form, or if you have questions about the role please contact university.secretary@durham.ac.uk.