"Manager (Deputy Chair) Human Research Ethics Committee"

Job Description:

• Influence ethical research at institutional level
• Shape national-standard ethics systems and practice
• Purpose-driven leadership role, Ko Te Tangata - For the People

Ngā kōrero mō te tūranga – About the role

This is a unique and influential leadership role at the heart of the University’s research endeavour. As Manager (Deputy Chair) of the Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC), you will ensure the University of Waikato meets its statutory and national obligations for human research ethics, while fostering a culture where ethical practice is understood, valued and embedded.

Reporting to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research, you will oversee the effective operation of HREC, ensuring applications are reviewed rigorously and in a timely manner, documentation and policies remain current, and systems are fit for purpose. You will also play a central role in navigating sector reforms, strengthening governance processes, and developing an accessible, robust online ethics portal in partnership with ITS.

This role carries significant responsibility and influence. You will work closely with senior academic leaders, committee members and external bodies to ensure that research involving people is conducted with integrity, respect and in alignment with national standards and the Pae Ora (Health Futures) Act.

At Waikato, our vision is Ko te Tangata – For the People. In this role, your work directly protects participants, strengthens trust in our research, and enables meaningful, responsible scholarship that benefits communities locally and globally.

Salary will be in the range of $102,611 to $113,428 per year based on skills, knowledge and experience brought to the position. This is a full-time role, based in Hamilton.

For more information on the role please see the position description. For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Gary Wilson, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research on email at gary.wilson@waikato.ac.nz. All applications must be submitted through the online portal; emailed applications will not be accepted.

Ko wai koe? – Who are you?

You are an experienced and principled leader with a strong background in ethics management and committee governance. You bring a graduate qualification and a demonstrated track record in managing complex review processes with rigour, fairness and sound judgement.

You will have:

• Proven experience managing ethics or comparable governance processes
• Excellent communication skills and the confidence to engage with senior leaders and researchers
• A strong understanding of research ethics frameworks and compliance obligations
• The ability to lead change, refine systems and maintain high standards under pressure

You are motivated by purpose. You understand that behind every ethics application are real people, communities and potential impacts. You are committed to partnership with Māori and to upholding the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi in research practice.

Ko wai mātou? – Who are we?

The University of Waikato is a research-intensive university with a strong international reputation and deep community connections. Our research spans disciplines and makes a tangible difference in Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond.

Within the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research Division, we support a vibrant research culture grounded in integrity, creativity and impact. The Human Research Ethics Committee plays a critical role in enabling this work safely and responsibly.

He aha ngā take me tono mai ai koe? – Why should you apply for this position?

We want you to be part of our success! Our University stands proudly on the world stage as a provider of future-focused, international education and an active player in global research. Our rankings reflect these strengths. Working with us means you’ll enjoy a satisfying work environment with many benefits.

The University of Waikato is distinctive for the diversity of its staff and students and encourages applicants with the relevant capabilities from all backgrounds to apply. Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in NZ in accordance with the NZ Immigration regulations which can be found here.

Ko te Tangata – For the People

The University of Waikato prides itself on the quality of its engagement with the communities that it serves, the provision of a world-class education and the national and international impact of its research. Our policies are guided by the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity for all.

E herea ana te Whare Wānanga ki te kaupapa kia whakaratohia te mea angitū ōrite ki ngā tāngata katoa.

Applications Close on Sunday March 22, 2026

Requisition number: 1003476

Posted: 06/03/2026