AEC Committee Membership
If we use animals for scientific purposes the AEC must approve this use. The Code requires this approval. The Code also states and describes the membership categories for the AEC. The membership descriptions include specific qualifications and expertise.
| Membership Category | Role |
|---|---|
Presiding Officer | The Presiding Officer (PO) guides the operation of the AEC. This includes resolving conflicts of interest related to the business of the AEC. The Presiding Officer represents the AEC in negotiations with the institution’s management. The PO ensures that the scientific use of animals is ethically acceptable. The position of Presiding Officer may be separate from those held by Category A to D members. The Presiding Officer is appointed by the DVC-RE. |
| Deputy Presiding Officer | Suitable experience, as appointed by the DVC-RE. This role supports the Presiding Officer, acting in their absence. |
Category A (Veterinarian) | A person with qualifications with veterinary science that are recognised for registration as a veterinary surgeon in Australia, and with experience relevant to the institution's activities or the ability to acquire relevant knowledge. |
| Category B (Researcher) | A suitably qualified person with substantial and recent experience in the use of animals for scientific purposes relevant to the institution and the business of the AEC. This must include possession of a higher degree in research or equivalent experience. If the business of the AEC relates to the use of animals for teaching only, a teacher with substantial and recent experience may be appointed. |
| Category C (Animal Welfare) | A person with demonstrable commitment to, and established experience in, furthering the welfare of animals, who is not employed by or otherwise associated with the institution, and who is not currently involved in the care and use of animals for scientific purposes. Veterinarians with specific animal welfare interest and experience may meet the requirements of this category. While not representing an animal welfare organisation, the person should, where possible, be selected on the basis of active membership of, and endorsement by, such an organisation. |
| Category D (Lay Person) | A person not employed by or otherwise associated with the institution and who has never been involved in the use of animals in scientific or teaching activities, either in their employment or beyond their undergraduate education. Category D members should be viewed by the wider community as bringing a completely independent view to the Committee, and must not fit the requirements of any other Category. |