Joining an AEC
The membership of an AEC is strictly regulated by the Australian Code. It must be comprised of at least one member from each of the following categories of membership:
- Category A (veterinarian) – a person with qualifications in veterinary science and with experience relevant to the activities of the institution
- Category B (scientists) – a suitably qualified person with substantial recent experience in the use of animals in scientific or teaching activities
- Category C (animal welfare) – a person with demonstrable commitment to and established experience in furthering the welfare of animals, who is not employed by or otherwise associated with the institution, and who is not involved in the care and use of animals for scientific purposes
- Category D (layperson) – an independent person (lay person) who has never been involved in the use of animals in scientific or teaching activities beyond their undergraduate education
As an Alfred Research Alliance AEC member, you would be required to:
- Read and review ethics applications, amendments and reports, prior to AEC meetings (approx. 6-8 hrs per month)
- Attend and actively participate in AEC meetings (up to 12 meetings annually, approx. 4-5 hrs per meeting during business hours)
- Adhere to deadlines for responses to out-of-session and executive reviews
- Maintain regular email access
- Maintain confidentiality about all matters considered by the AEC
The Alfred Research Alliance welcomes expressions of interest from members of the public interested in joining one of our AECs.
If you believe you meet the description of a membership category outlined above and are interested in becoming a member of an AEC at the Alfred Research Alliance, please email the Animal Ethics Office for more information.