Urgent HREC Chair

Overview

Job no: 503971 • Work type: Fixed Term • Location: South Brisbane • Categories: Research

Mater Research is seeking an outstanding leader to Chair the Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC). This part-time permanent role (0.2 – 0.3 FTE) will be based at our South Brisbane campus.

Mater Research is a recognised leader in medical research. Our bench to bedside philosophy sees us working across Mater Health’s hospitals and health services, The University of Queensland, and the Translational Research Institute (TRI). We are committed to working closely with Mater Health, Mater Education and our growing network of partners and collaborators to turn scientific discovery into the best possible treatment, care, and outcomes for patients and our broader community.

Responsibilities

- Lead the HREC with authority, ensuring meetings are conducted efficiently, transparently, and in line with legislative, regulatory and Mater requirements.
- Provide calm, pragmatic, and well-reasoned guidance on complex ethical matters, helping the organisation navigate sensitive issues with integrity and confidence.
- Champion ethical best practice by fostering education, dialogue and respect across researchers, HREC members and the broader Mater community.
- Engage proactively with researchers to ensure requirements are clearly understood, facilitating ethical research without unnecessary barriers.
- Represent the HREC in both internal and external forums, strengthening collaboration with partner institutions and reinforcing Mater’s reputation as a leader in ethical research governance.

About you

You are a highly respected professional with the expertise, judgement and interpersonal skills to lead one of Mater’s most critical research governance functions. You will bring:

- Demonstrated leadership and committee governance experience, with the ability to build consensus and guide decision-making in complex and sensitive contexts.
- Deep knowledge of Australian Human Research Ethics requirements, complemented by an understanding of Catholic healthcare principles and their application to research.
- A calm, balanced and pragmatic approach that allows you to navigate nuanced ethical dilemmas while providing clarity and reassurance to others.
- Outstanding communication and consultation skills, with the ability to listen, engage and influence across a diverse range of stakeholders — from early career researchers to senior executives.
- The credibility to act as an independent voice for participants and the authority to uphold the highest standards of research integrity.
- Relevant qualifications in health, ethics, law or a related field (or equivalent experience).

Benefits

- Increase your take-home pay with generous salary packaging options, including meal and entertainment benefits
- Grow your career with access to industry-leading training and professional development through Mater Education
- Wellbeing support through our Employee Assistance Program and on-site pastoral care teams
- Access a range of health and wellbeing services with a corporate discount on private health insurance
- Exclusive discounts across dining, retail, travel, accommodation (just to name a few)
- Stay active with unlimited access to discounted gyms via the Fitness Passport program
- Convenient, discounted on-site parking
- Enjoy great food with reduced prices at our campus cafés and coffee spots
- Join Queensland’s Largest and Most Innovative Not-for-Profit Healthcare Team

Be part of something bigger. Make your move with Mater. #MAKEYOURMATERMOVE

Applications close: 15 Oct 2025 E. Australia Standard Time

Mater is committed to the wellbeing of their staff, and it is underpinned by our flexible and remote working policies.

Mater Group is dedicated to creating a workplace that values diversity and inclusion. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and abilities. We believe in providing equal opportunities for all qualified candidates.

Advertised: 18 Sep 2025 E. Australia Standard Time

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