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Job Vacancies

All applications for our vacancies are made online through the University of Oxford jobs website and only in very exceptional circumstances can we receive applications via other means. 

If you have a disability or other compelling reason that prevents you submitting an application online please email the divisional HR team at divoff.jobs@medsci.ox.ac.uk for advice. 

Current Vacancies

Chair of the Medical Sciences Interdivisional Research Ethics Committee (MS IDREC)

The Medical Sciences Interdivisional Research Ethics Committee (MS IDREC), an important subcommittee of the Central University Research Ethics Committee (CUREC), is seeking to appoint a new Chair.

The MS IDREC Chair provides academic and ethical leadership in the review of research involving human participants, biological samples, and personal data, across departments within the Medical Sciences Division (MSD) and the Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences Division (MPLS).

The Chair typically serves a four‑year term and leads the committee in accordance with Standing Orders, supported by the secretariat, vice-chair(s), 14 full committee members, and a panel of review‑only members. A responsibility allowance is provided.

The Chair, with support from the vice-chair(s), ensures that all study applications receive appropriate, risk‑proportionate ethics review in line with the University’s Research Ethics Policy. The role requires substantial experience in research involving human participants, biological samples, or personal data.

The Chair is also a member of CUREC and is expected to attend termly CUREC meetings.  The appointment would be subject to formal approval by the Research and Innovation Committee of Council.

Expressions of interest should be accompanied by a CV, and sent to ethics@medsci.ox.ac.uk by Friday 24 April 2026.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Chair termly MS IDREC meetings, ensuring clear identification and discussion of ethical issues and robust decision‑making.
  • Review and approve meeting agendas and minutes prepared by the secretariat.
  • Support the effective and collegial operation of the committee.
  • Oversee ethics review of research applications (with support from vice-chair(s)).
  • Provide Chair’s actions/sign‑off as required (with support from vice-chair(s)).
  • Serve as a point of escalation for relevant issues, including reported incidents or non‑compliances.
  • Contribute to ongoing improvements in committee processes and standards.

Essential Criteria

  • Experience in research involving human participants, biological samples, or personal data.
  • Ability to assess research beyond one’s own field.
  • Strong leadership and communication skills.
  • Excellent time‑management and sufficient availability to fulfil the role.

Desirable Criteria

  • Knowledge of research ethics frameworks, national guidelines, and best practices.
  • Prior experience on committees.
  • Clinical qualification with current prescribing experience.

 

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