Associate Manager - Strathmore University Institutional Ethics Review Committee (SU-IERC) at Strathmore University

Basic job summary:

The Manager of the Strathmore University Institutional Ethics Review Committee (SU-IERC) plays a pivotal role in overseeing and managing the operations of the committee. The Manager is responsible for providing leadership, guidance, and support to ensure the efficient and effective functioning of the SU-IERC in accordance with ethical standards and regulatory requirements.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Leadership and Management:

• Provide strategic direction and leadership to the SU-IERC in alignment with the institutional goals and objectives.
• Supervise and manage the activities of the SU-IERC staff, ensuring efficient workflow, timely completion of tasks, and adherence to standard operating procedures.
• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment, promoting a culture of integrity and ethical research conduct.

Regulatory Compliance:

• Stay updated on relevant laws, regulations, and guidelines pertaining to research ethics, ensuring the SU-IERC operates in compliance with these standards.
• Develop and implement policies, procedures, and guidelines for the ethical review of research proposals and the protection of human subjects.
• Oversee the submission and review process of research protocols, ensuring completeness, accuracy, and adherence to ethical guidelines.

Training and Education:

• Provide training and educational programs to SU-IERC members, research faculty, schools, research centers, and external stakeholders to enhance their understanding of research ethics and regulatory requirements.
• Promote awareness of ethical considerations in research through workshops, seminars, and other knowledge-sharing initiatives.

Administrative Support:

• Manage administrative procedures related to the SU-IERC, including the acceptance, verification, and distribution of submitted items for review.
• Create and distribute meeting agendas, arrange meeting logistics, and ensure timely distribution of minutes
• Correspond with submitting researchers, providing guidance on protocol preparation and submission according to standard operating procedures.

Continuous Improvement:

• Regularly review and assess the effectiveness of SU-IERC processes and procedures, identifying areas for improvement and implementing necessary changes.
• Stay abreast of emerging trends and best practices in research ethics, recommending updates to policies and procedures as needed.

 Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement:

• Collaborate with relevant internal and external stakeholders, including research faculty, administrators, regulatory bodies, and research sponsors, to ensure effective communication and coordination of ethical review processes.
• Foster positive relationships with researchers and stakeholders, providing guidance and support while maintaining independence and integrity in the review process.

Reporting and Documentation:

• Prepare reports on SU-IERC activities, including metrics, trends, and compliance status, for submission to relevant institutional bodies and regulatory authorities.
• Maintain accurate and comprehensive records of all SU-IERC correspondence, protocols, and decisions.

Professional Development:

• Stay updated on the latest developments in research ethics, attending conferences, workshops, and training sessions to enhance knowledge and skills.
• Encourage professional development among SU-IERC staff, providing opportunities for growth and learning.
• Any other duties as assigned by the Head of Department.

Minimum Academic Qualifications:

• Master's degree or higher in a relevant field (e.g., research ethics, bioethics, public health, social sciences).

Experience:

• 5+ years of Previous experience in research ethics review, preferably in a managerial or supervisory role.
• Strong knowledge of research ethics regulations, guidelines, and best practices.
• Excellent organizational, leadership, and communication skills. 
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders and manage multiple priorities.
• Proficiency in using computer applications and electronic submission systems.

Competencies and Attributes

• Excellent analytical skills
• Ability conduct research
• Organized
• Excellent communication skills
• Dynamic and innovative
• Team player