Job Description

Vacancies for non-layperson and layperson positions on the Ethics Committee on Assisted Reproductive Technology

On behalf of Hon Peeni Henare, Associate Minister of Health, Te Manatū Hauora | The Ministry of Health is seeking candidates who wish to be considered for appointment to the Ethics Committee on Assisted Reproductive Technology (ECART).

ECART is established under section 27 of the Human Assisted Reproductive Technology Act 2004 (the HART Act).

ECART's purpose is to consider, determine and review applications for assisted reproductive procedures or human reproductive research.

Kōrero mōu | About you

Te Manatū Hauora is seeking applications for the following positions:

Two layperson members with expertise in Māori customary values and perspective

Preferred experience for this role includes:

• an understanding of tikanga Māori, particular around concepts like whānau, fertility, and cultural identity
• an interest in reproductive technology, fertility treatments, lived experience of fertility issues or the changing nature of what it means to have a family in Aotearoa New Zealand.

One non-layperson member with expertise in human reproductive research

Preferred skills for this role include:

• knowledge of and experience in human reproductive research/assisted reproductive technologies, and the concepts of family formation using assisted reproductive technologies an approach that is accepting of the values of diverse community perspectives

One non-layperson member with either expertise in mental health OR fertility treatment expertise

Preferred skills for this role include either:

• experience with the mental health and wellbeing of individuals or communities as a medically trained mental health worker (for example a mental health nurse, doctor, researcher or psychiatrist).

or:

• medical experience in fertility, fertility issues or gynaecology
• an understanding of tikanga Māori and application to reproductive technology.

The ideal candidate would have strong cultural awareness and experience working in research with Māori and/or Pacific communities. An ability to work objectively across a range of relevant perspectives and not adopt a narrow advocacy position is required of all members. Members are also expected to demonstrate open and responsive communication skills, with an ability to reach consensus when different points of views are shared.

To qualify for the layperson membership positions, you must not be:

• a health practitioner within the meaning of the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003; or
• involved in health research; or
• be employed by or associated with (or has a pecuniary interest in) a fertility provider.

An ability to work objectively across a range of relevant perspectives and not adopt a narrow advocacy position is required of all members. Members are also expected to demonstrate open and responsive communication skills, with an ability to reach consensus when different points of views are shared.

Members are expected to develop a strong working knowledge of the HART Act 2004 and in particular the guiding principles for ECART; and be able to apply legislation and regulations in ethics review of applications.

Kōrero mō te tūranga | About the role

You are able to undertake this role from anywhere in New Zealand. You will need to have robust computer access and skills. Strong internet connection is necessary as most committee meetings are undertaken via video conferencing

The Committee may meet in-person in Wellington at the request of members. Travel costs are covered for members by the Ministry of Health.

ECART members meet every two months. The 2022 dates for ECART committee meetings are available online, linked below:

https://ecart.health.govt.nz/meetings/

Following appointment, training materials will be supplied. More comprehensive training is undertaken annually.

Me pēhea te tono | How to apply

Applications must be made using the Ministry of Health's online Career Centre and closes 22 May 2022.

All applications require the following:

• a completed declaration form (attached)
• a covering letter
• a current CV.

Background checks will be undertaken for shortlisted applicants. Your personal information will be handled in accordance with the Privacy Act 2020.

You must be a New Zealand resident and reside in New Zealand in order to be considered for the role. Please note that core public servants are also generally not considered for this role.

The appointment process is lengthy and your patience and professionalism as we work through the next steps is appreciated. The outcome of the recruitment process for this committee will be confirmed after it has been considered by Cabinet's Appointments and Honours Committee.

Ko wai mātou | Who we are

The Government recognises that diversity enables our statutory boards and committees to be high-performing, and is committed to ensuring they represent the diversity in New Zealand's population, including gender, ethnicity, age and geographic location. Te Manatū Hauora encourages people from all backgrounds, especially those who can reflect the needs, values, and beliefs of Māori, and have an understanding and are committed to meeting the obligations of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, to apply for these roles.

See theManatū Hauora Board appointments webpage for more information. If you would like to obtain further information or clarification, or if your circumstances change or should you wish to withdraw your application, please contact the Appointments team by emailing: appointments@health.govt.nz

Due to the significant number of applications received, we are not in a position to individually notify candidates that they have been unsuccessful. When appointments are made, they will be published on the New Zealand Gazette website and linked to te Manatū Hauora Board appointments webpage and we encourage you to check these sites for updates. However, unsuccessful shortlisted candidates will be notified of the Minister's decision.