The Health Research Council of New Zealand Te Kaunihera Rangahau Hauora o Aotearoa - is a Crown agency investing over $100 million annually into world-class research that improves health outcomes and saves lives. The research funded by the HRC leads to disease prevention, treatment and cures, as well as better models of care, improved efficiencies, and commercial applications.
This is an opportunity to join a purpose-driven organisation that is making a tangible impact on the health of our nation and to play a central role in shaping ethics and regulatory policy across New Zealand’s health research sector.
The Opportunity
As the Ethics & Regulatory Lead, you’ll provide expert guidance on research ethics, regulation, and integrity while supporting several influential committees, including the HRC Ethics Committee, Data Monitoring Committees, and scientific committees that provide advice to the Director General of Health on whether clinical trials should be approved.
This is a high-impact role where you will:
- Lead the advancement of ethics and regulatory policy to ensure best practice across funded research
- Provide secretariat support and expert advice to multiple statutory and standing committees
- Engage with key external stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health, Medsafe, universities, and clinical research organisations
- Strengthen HRC’s position as a leader in research ethics and integrity
- Ensure inclusive and culturally responsive approaches are reflected in policies and processes
You will bring strong expertise in research ethics and regulation, combined with excellent relationship-building and stakeholder management skills. You’re comfortable navigating complex committee environments and influencing decisions at a national level.
To succeed, you’ll ideally bring:
- A relevant tertiary qualification (Bachelor’s minimum; postgraduate study in Law, Health, or Ethics advantageous)
- 3+ years’ experience in research integrity, human or animal ethics, or regulatory oversight
- Experience developing or improving ethics-related policies and processes
- Proven ability to engage with diverse stakeholders, from government agencies to research institutions
- A working understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and a commitment to advancing equity in health research
At the HRC, you’ll be part of a warm, collaborative, and supportive culture where people are genuinely passionate about the work they do.
We offer:
- The chance to influence health research ethics policy and integrity on a national scale
- A collaborative team environment where your expertise is valued
- Professional development opportunities to grow your skills and impact
- A workplace committed to inclusivity, partnership, and positive change
For more content on HRC, please visit the website : https://www.hrc.govt.nz/
Apply Today!
If you’re ready to take on a highly influential role in shaping research ethics and regulatory practice across Aotearoa New Zealand, we’d love to hear from you. Please contact Robbie McKenzie for any further questions:
PH: 027 519 4993
E: robbiem@rwrhealth.co.nz
W: www.rwrhealth.co.nz