Location - This role is hybrid with a mix of remote and in-person work at North Campus Edmonton.
Reporting to the Manager, Research Ethics, the REB Specialist works to facilitate the review of ethics applications submitted primarily to REBs 1 and 2 but also to the University’s two other research ethics boards. As a key member of an integrated research ethics administration team, this role supports and advises researchers and their staff on the preparation of ethics applications and amendments, which includes informed consent processes, participant recruitment, assessment of potential risks and mechanisms for mitigating risks. The position supports and advises the REB Chairs and members with regard to compliance with applicable regulations, policy and legislation.
Good judgment, diplomacy and tact must be exercised when synthesizing and conveying information. Respect for confidentiality, flexibility and excellent critical thinking skills are key attributes when problem solving and communicating with applicants, colleagues, REB members and members of the research community. The ideal candidate will leverage prior experience as a Research Coordinator or Project Manager in the social sciences, humanities, or behavioral sciences to bridge the gap between ethical policy frameworks and practical, on-the-ground research operations.
The position will primarily be responsible for submissions to REB 1 and REB 2, but may also be required to review files submitted to the Health Research Ethics Board-Health Panel (REB 3) or the Biomedical Panel (REB 4). As such, the duties of this position are diverse and can be complex. The individual must possess a robust operational understanding of human research methodologies. The position requires significant independent work and decision making within a team environment. There are high volumes of work, and frequent periods of conflicting timelines and priorities. Well-developed organizational skills are required to manage the volume of applications and associated inquiries.
At The Office of the Vice President - Research (VPR), research is at the core of what we do. The VPR team supports and advances the university's large and complex research enterprise, providing leadership, guidance and diverse research services.
VPR supports the university's research function, helping ensure those involved in research and partnership activities adhere to the highest operational, financial, legal, ethical and safety standards. We also develop and administer policies to ensure regulatory compliance.
- Receives and processes ethics applications, amendments and renewals for both full board and delegated review submitted to the University’s Research Ethics Boards.
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Provides applicants information and advice as necessary concerning application processes and ethics requirements.
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Advises on process, issues, and policies related to human research ethics and assists in researching and developing procedures and guidelines for use by the REBs, administrators and researchers.
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Works with the REB Chair, as required, to make preliminary determination of application risk level and initiates review processes accordingly.
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Uses judgement to process files both independently and/or forward for delegated review based on Standard Operating Procedure including new studies, amendments, renewals and/or reportable events.
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Provides REB Committee support, including: acting as a resource person, establishing and maintaining meeting schedule, preparing and distributing agenda, writing minutes of meetings and ensuring quorum is met for each meeting.
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Contributes to the preparation, delivery and distribution of educational resources and materials to colleagues, researchers and REB members.
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Other duties as assigned.
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Undergraduate degree required; graduate degree preferred.
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Minimum 2-5 years of relevant job experience in an applied research environment or within an academic setting is an asset (equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered).
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Knowledge of the Tri-Council Policy Statement: Ethical Conduct for Research Involving Humans, the Alberta Health Information Act and related policies, regulations and legislation are required - TCPS 2: CORE (Course on Research Ethics) certificate is required.
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Demonstrated ability to consistently and effectively apply high level critical thinking and independent decision-making.
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Strong customer service skills, with demonstrated problem solving ability and a keen eye for detail.
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Basic understanding of human research ethics boards and the pertinent regulatory bodies.
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Strong administration skills, including computing (e.g. Microsoft Office, Google applications, ARISE).
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Well-developed communication skills (oral, written and listening) and interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively/advise individuals at all levels of the organization.
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Ability to work in a fast paced, high volume work environment.
Application Instructions
Click "Apply Now" to submit your resume and cover letter.
This position is subject to all applicable terms and conditions of the collective agreement between the Governors of the University of Alberta and the Non-Academic Staff Association (NASA).
This position offers a comprehensive benefits package.
The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.
The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.
Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people - from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.
At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.
All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms—physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of belonging and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.
The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.
L’Université de l’Alberta s’engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes de toute orientation sexuelle ou identité et expression de genre; et toutes les personnes qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.
