Lay Members - University of Stirling Research Ethics Panels
Help shape ethical research at the University of Stirling.
The University of Stirling is seeking independent Lay Members to join our Research Ethics Panels on a voluntary basis.
This is an opportunity to contribute to the ethical oversight of research involving human participants, helping to ensure that studies are conducted responsibly, safely and in line with recognised ethical standards. No connection to the University is required - in fact, your independent perspective is what we value most.
What does the role involve?
As a Lay Member, you will:
- review research applications and provide an independent viewpoint on ethical issues;
- help ensure research participants are treated fairly and respectfully;
- contribute to panel discussions on research proposals and emerging ethical questions;
- work alongside academic and professional experts to support high standards of research governance;
Training and ongoing support will be provided.
Who are we looking for?
We welcome applications from people with a genuine interest in research and ethics who can:
- consider complex issues objectively and from different perspectives;
- communicate their views confidently and constructively;
- demonstrate integrity, fairness and sound judgement;
- respect confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately;
- work comfortably with electronic documents and online systems;
- attend regular meetings and contribute to discussions.
We are particularly keen to hear from individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences to ensure diverse public perspectives are represented.
Time commitment
- Meetings are usually held monthly and last around two hours.
- Meetings are hybrid, with the option to attend online or in person.
- Members typically review 2 to 4 applications per month in advance of meetings.
- Appointments are for an initial three-year term.
The role is voluntary and unpaid, but reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed.
What will you gain?
- Insight into a wide range of innovative research projects.
- Knowledge and experience of research ethics and governance.
- Opportunities to work with people from diverse professional backgrounds.
- Experience contributing to formal university decision-making processes.
About the Panels
We are recruiting Lay Members for two panels that review research involving human participants:
- NHS, Invasive or Clinical Research (NICR) Ethics Panel - reviews health and patient research, NHS-based research, and studies involving invasive procedures or interventions.
- General University Ethics Panel (GUEP) - reviews non-invasive human research, including social, environmental and digital research.
If you are interested in supporting ethical research and bringing an independent public voice to our decision-making, we would love to hear from you.
Express your interest
Please send a copy of your CV and a brief personal statement to ethics@stir.ac.uk.
For informal enquiries, please contact: Ms Rachel Beaton ethics@stir.ac.uk.
Expressions of interest should be submitted to ethics@stir.ac.uk by midnight on 11 September 2026.