Become an Animal Ethics Committee Member

What is an AEC member?

Our Animal Ethics Committees review research involving animal health or animal research towards human health — for example, pharmacology and toxicology studies involving mice and rats. These studies are often a critical step in developing new therapies, underpinning the clinical trials that follow with human participants.

As an AEC member, you’ll bring your own expertise to that process, helping improve animal welfare by ensuring research involving animals is conducted ethically and responsibly.

You can learn more about our AEC here.

Who can become an AEC member

We welcome members from a variety of disciplines and actively encourage applications from across Australia, including people with a diversity of backgrounds and experience.

Our members are expected to bring thoughtful insight, professionalism and integrity to the Animal Ethics Committee process, while working collaboratively and upholding the high standards of independence and care that underpin Bellberry’s reputation.

Our AEC members are:

• Veterinarians
• Researchers
• Persons with animal welfare experience
• Lay members — people not currently engaged in medical, scientific or legal work

We actively encourage applications from across Australia, including people with a diversity of backgrounds and experience.

Key skills and experience

• Good communication skills, including listening to and appreciating the views of others.
• The ability to formulate and express a considered opinion.
• Sound computer skills and ability to use online systems for document review.

Scientific member requirements

Scientific members — those within categories (c) and (f) as defined by the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research (2025) — should ideally have:

• Knowledge and understanding of scientific and methodological requirements of research protocols.
• Active or recent or involvement in conducting research, particularly clinical trials relating to drugs or devices, epidemiology or behavioural and social science research.
• Knowledge and understanding of the National Statement.
• An understanding of the TGA and how it relates to clinical research.
• Knowledge and understanding of relevant Australian and international guidelines (TGA, GMP, EMA, FDA).
• Relevant clinical experience and formal qualifications needed to practice in Australia (for medical members).

Categories of membership align with the NHMRC’s Australian Code for the Care and Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes, as well as any state-specific requirements.

What’s involved in AEC membership

AEC membership is a paid role that offers flexibility and professional engagement, supported by Bellberry’s experienced management team and digital systems that make participation simple and rewarding.

As a member, you’ll review study protocols and study documents, considering the research question, methods and outcomes — then provide advice on whether they’re fair and appropriate. Meetings are held on an ad-hoc basis dependent on the number of applications received.

Members are expected to work collaboratively and uphold the high standards of independence and care that underpin Bellberry’s reputation.

Bellberry provides an induction program and education for all members, including ongoing mentoring and training.

Key responsibilities

• Reviewing study protocols and relevant study material, and providing feedback ahead of each AEC review meeting.
• Contributing to the effective functioning of the Bellberry AEC through active participation in review meetings.
• Completing any necessary background reading, training or seminars, and taking part in other educational activities that support your membership role.
• Actively considering broader perspectives, and being mindful of diversity and representation.

Apply to become an AEC member

Membership is offered through an Expression of Interest process. Submitting an expression does not guarantee a position, but your details will be reviewed and kept on file for future opportunities.

How to apply

1. Thoroughly review the information on this page to ensure your eligibility.
2. Complete the Expression of Interest form below and submit online, along with your CV.
3. If your expertise aligns with current needs, we’ll be in touch to discuss next steps.

For more information, call the AEC Service on (08) 8361 3222 or email bellberryaec@bellberry.com.au.