Human Research Ethics Manager

This position ensures the University's adherence to required research legislation and guidelines. The position oversees the University's HRECs and ethics sub-committees, and manages a team of 5. The position requires a close working relationship with the Clinical Trials Unit as well as Research Integrity, Research Data Management, Animal Ethics and Biosafety and other Research Services teams.

• Salary Package: Up to $175K package negotiable (including superannuation)
• Appointment Type: Full-time, continuing appointment
• Location: Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde; Hybrid working

Lead with Integrity. Drive excellence in human research ethics.

The Role

At Macquarie University, our research is guided by a commitment to integrity, respect, and the highest ethical standards. We are seeking a highly experienced and strategic Human Research Ethics Manager to lead our Human Research Ethics Team and provide expert advice to our researchers, students, and research ethics committees.

In this pivotal role, you will provide strategic direction for human research ethics across the University, ensuring our policies and procedures remain current, compliant, and aligned with legislation and best practice. You will lead a team delivering high-quality services, advice, and training, and work closely with senior stakeholders to shape the future of research governance at Macquarie.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and management of the Human Research Ethics Team to ensure efficient, high-quality services to researchers, students, and stakeholders.
• Develop and implement strategy for human research ethics and provide expert advice to senior University leaders on best practice in ethics, data, and systems.
• Interpret and apply relevant legislation, guidelines, and policies related to human research ethics.
• Lead and support audits, training programs, and workshops to build capability across the research community.
• Oversee the assessment and compliance of human ethics applications, including risk assessment under the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research.
• Prepare reports for the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), NHMRC, and relevant regulators.
• Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to support Macquarie's research excellence.

About You

You are an experienced leader in human research ethics with a deep understanding of governance, legislation, and the ethical conduct of research. With strong interpersonal and communication skills, you can provide expert guidance and training to a diverse research community. You thrive in complex environments, balancing regulatory compliance with the needs of researchers, and are committed to continuous improvement in systems and processes.

In addition, you will have (selection criteria):

• Degree level qualification (and Post Graduate qualifications preferred) or equivalent experience in human research or human ethics.
• Demonstrated experience implementing strategy, driving process improvement, leading and managing a professional team and building team capability.
• Knowledge of the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research and other relevant legislation, codes, and guidelines.
• Experience interpreting, applying, and advising on research ethics policy, governance frameworks, and compliance obligations.
• Highly developed interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills, with the ability to provide clear and authoritative advice to a diverse range of stakeholders including researchers, students, executives, and regulators.
• Demonstrated experience in managing human research ethics reporting, applications, compliance reviews, and audits, including assessing risk in research activities.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex information, identify risks, and propose practical solutions.
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including researchers, committees, and regulatory authorities.

About Us

Macquarie University is recognised globally for its research excellence and impact. The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) portfolio leads the University's research strategy, fostering innovation, research training and meaningful industry partnerships locally and internationally.

The Human Research Ethics team is critical to ensuring our research is conducted with integrity and in compliance with applicable legislation and regulation - protecting our researchers, our research and the University's reputation.

Why work at Macquarie

We offer a collaborative environment, professional growth opportunities, and the chance to make a real difference in the delivery of the University's academic, research and health strategic objectives.

We rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index, having recently earned a five-star rating in the QS World Rankings with the highest rating for employability.

Take a look at our benefits on offer:

• 17% Superannuation
• Subsidised onsite parking options
• Macquarie University Metro Station and Bus Interchange
• Flexible working options
• Training and professional development
• Onsite childcare facilities
• Discounted health insurance (Medibank)
• Onsite vacation care
• Employee Assistance Program
• Subsidised membership at the Sport & Aquatic Centre
• Onsite Hospital, GP, imaging & physio clinics

*This position requires Qualification and Criminal History Checks.

Application Closes: 19 October 2025

We reserve the right to progress or decline an application prior to the application closing date.

For enquiries, or a confidential conversation about the role please contact Kandy White via or Sarah Bate, Head of Talent Acquisition on or

If you're already part of the Macquarie Group (MQ University, , MQ Health, MGSM), you'll need to apply through your employee Workday account. To apply for this job: Login to Workday and go to the Careers App > Find Jobs.

Diversity and Inclusion

At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community.

Find out more about our vision for a truly inclusive workplace in our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework.

Flexible Work

At Macquarie, we believe by providing flexibility in when, where and how work is done, we can support our staff to manage their personal commitments, while optimising their work performance and contributions to the University. See how we lead in flexible work to enable an outcome focused and inclusive workplace. To learn more about our culture and hiring process, explore our Candidate Resource Hub.