Volunteer Researcher Member (Social Sciences)
About the role:
The Researcher Member is a volunteer member of the Canadian Blood Services Research Ethics Board (REB) with the responsibilities to contribute to the REB on the scientific content and methodology of social sciences research and to assess the risks and potential benefits that may be associated with that research. REB Members work together with the REB Chair and researchers to ensure that the rights and welfare of participants in research studies are adequately protected, and that the benefits of the research justify the potential risks to research participants. This is an ideal opportunity to play a significant role in advancing health research in the multiple areas covered by Canadian Blood Services including transfusion, organs and tissues transplantation, and hematopoietic stem cells transplantation.
Key responsibilities include:
- Review research applications as assigned by the Chair and in accordance with the guidelines of the Tri-Council Policy Statement: Ethical Conduct for Research Involving Humans (TCPS 2) and Canadian Blood Services policies and procedures. As stated in the commentary on article 6.4 of TCPS2, “At least two members should have the relevant knowledge and expertise to understand the content area and methodology of the proposed or ongoing research, and to assess the risks and potential benefits that may be associated with the research (Article 6.4[a]).”
- Attend the REB meetings to make recommendations on research applications and other matters that come before the REB such as operating procedures and policy advice to the Canadian Blood Services.
Experience & Skills:
- Expertise in social sciences research and research methodologies is essential. Specialization and experience in one of the following fields would be beneficial: donor recruitment and retention (blood/plasma, organ, stem cells), community-based participatory research (CBPR), social justice, health equity, and/or public health.
- Pragmatic approach to addressing issues that may arise, with awareness of research complexities, as viewed through a scientific lens.
- Any of the following would be an asset:
- Previous REB membership experience.
- Experience working in a health care setting or with health sector clients.
- Knowledge related to health research especially in areas related to the collection, use and disclosure of biological materials and data for research.
- Experience in research with diverse populations.
Commitment:
The REB member would be expected to attend three meetings of the REB per year. Each meeting is approximately 3 hours in length. The meetings are conducted virtually with potential for 1 in-person meeting per year (Ottawa Canadian Blood Services Head office, as permitted). From time to time, there are ad hoc meetings. On occasion the REB member will be called upon to offer advice to the Chair. Due to the virtual aspect of the position, there are some technological requirements including a reliable internet connection, and a computer/smartphone/tablet.
Term:
3-year term. Renewable twice for a maximum of 3 terms or 9 years in total.
Remuneration:
This is an unpaid, volunteer position.
Application Process:
Applications must include a letter summarizing the applicant’s interest, and a Curriculum Vitae (CV). Please indicate in your letter any affiliation with Canadian Blood Services. Additional documents may be submitted to support your application.
Applications can be sent electronically to:
Canadian Blood Services Research Ethics Program Secretariat
The position will be posted for at least 1 month however applications will be accepted until a suitable candidate is identified. This posting will remain on the website until the position is filled.
Selection Process:
Diversity and inclusion play a vital role in ensuring health equity for Canadians. We are committed to reflecting Canada’s population in our organization and fostering an environment where all employees and volunteers can be their authentic selves, with equal opportunities to succeed and contribute.
To protect the health and safety of its employees, all Canadian Blood Services’ employees and volunteers are required to be fully vaccinated (COVID-19 vaccine doses as approved by Health Canada), subject to any authorized medical or other exemptions.
Candidates will be selected based on the experience and skills outlined above. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
About the Canadian Blood Services REB:
The REB is a multidisciplinary board established to review all studies involving human participants conducted by Canadian Blood Services or using Canadian Blood Services resources (e.g. biological materials, data, staff, donors, etc.). The REB evaluates applications submitted for research ethics review and acts as a resource for education and guidance to support Canadian Blood Services in maintaining ethical integrity in its research activities.
For more information on the Canadian Blood Services Research Ethics Program, go to https://www.blood.ca/en/research/products-and-services-researchers/research-ethics-program
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