The University of Manitoba is seeking an accomplished leader to serve as Director, Human Research Ethics & Strategic Advisor within the Office of the Vice-President (Research and International) (VPRI).
This unique leadership role combines oversight of the University's human research ethics program with strategic advisory responsibilities supporting institutional research priorities and initiatives. Reporting directly to the Vice-President (Research and International), the successful candidate will play a critical role in promoting ethical excellence, advancing strategic research objectives, and strengthening partnerships across the university and beyond.
About the Role
The Director provides strategic and operational leadership for the University of Manitoba's human research ethics portfolio, ensuring compliance with applicable legislation, regulatory requirements, and the Tri-Council Policy Statement: Ethical Conduct for Research Involving Humans (TCPS2). The position oversees the ethical review process for research involving human participants and supports the work of the University's Research Ethics Boards.
Working closely with researchers, academic leaders, administrators, and external partners, the Director fosters a culture of ethical research conduct while ensuring that review processes remain effective, responsive, and appropriate for a broad range of research disciplines and methodologies.
In addition to leading the Office of Human Research Ethics, the Director serves as a strategic advisor to the VPRI on institutional initiatives, policy development, and implementation of key research priorities, including the University's Strategic Research Plan.
Key Responsibilities
The Director will:
- Provide strategic and operational leadership for the University's human research ethics program.
- Oversee ethics review processes, compliance activities, and research ethics education initiatives.
- Lead the implementation and continuous improvement of systems, policies, procedures, and service standards supporting human research ethics.
- Collaborate with Research Ethics Board Chairs and members to ensure effective governance and high standards of ethical review.
- Support institutional compliance with applicable legislation, guidelines, and regulatory requirements, including TCPS2, PHIA, and FIPPA.
- Lead development and revision of policies and procedures within the VPRI portfolio.
- Contribute to the implementation, evaluation, and ongoing advancement of the University's Strategic Research Plan.
- Advise the VPRI on strategic research initiatives and foster collaboration with external organizations, government agencies, research networks, and community partners.
- Develop and lead a high-performing, collaborative team focused on service excellence and continuous improvement.
Qualifications
The successful candidate will possess:
- A PhD in a discipline related to research involving human participants.
- At least five years of relevant experience within a human research-related field.
- Demonstrated knowledge of Canadian and Manitoba legislation, policies, regulations, and guidelines governing research involving human participants, including TCPS2, PHIA, and FIPPA.
- Completion of TCPS2: CORE training and PHIA training.
- Experience interpreting complex policies, regulations, and governance frameworks.
- Exceptional analytical, communication, relationship-building, and organizational skills.
- Demonstrated success leading change, managing complex initiatives, and building collaborative partnerships.
- An understanding of diverse research methodologies and ethical considerations, including research conducted in partnership with Indigenous Peoples.
Experience contributing to institutional strategy, organizational transformation, or policy development is considered an asset. Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP) designation would be an advantage.
Why Join the University of Manitoba?
As Manitoba's research-intensive university, the University of Manitoba is committed to advancing discovery, innovation, and community impact. This role offers an exceptional opportunity to shape both the University's research ethics framework and its broader research agenda while working alongside leading researchers, academic leaders, and external partners.
Apply
The University of Manitoba is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion and encourages applications from systemically marginalized groups. Accommodation supports are available throughout the recruitment process.
Candidates interested in this opportunity are invited to submit their application including a CV and cover letter, online at: https://viprecprod.ad.umanitoba.ca/DEFAULT.ASPX?REQ_ID=44980
Review of applications will begin September 30, 2026. For confidential inquiries, please contact: Allison Stephen, Director, Office of the Vice-President (Research and International) allison.stephen@umanitoba.ca
Position number: 33804 | Advertised until September 30, 2026, or until filled.
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