Join the Board of Trustees – Research Ethics Association
Voluntary | Remote | Flexible Commitment | Charity No. 1213363
Who We Are
The Research Ethics Association (REA) is a registered charity working to advance education in the theory and practice of research ethics across sectors. We support ethical practice through training, outreach, and advocacy across academic, charitable, and public domains.
Formed by researchers and ethics professionals, we are independent, inclusive, and committed to making ethical awareness central to research culture.
What We’re Looking For
REA is seeking new trustees to join our Board as we enter an exciting period of development. We welcome applications from individuals across sectors and backgrounds who share our commitment to ethical research practice.
This includes (but is not limited to) social science, animal welfare, education, natural history, humanitarian projects, physical sciences, life sciences, earth sciences, humanities, philosophy, medicine and medical research, veterinarian sciences, business, politics, languages, literature, arts, psychology, media, mathematics, music, history, and more.
We are especially interested in individuals with experience or interest in one or more of the following areas:
• Research ethics (any field, sector, or discipline)
• Charity governance or law
• Finance and accounting (potential future Treasurer)
• Communications, web/digital, or public engagement
• Fundraising or grant applications
• Equality, diversity, and inclusion
• Policy or regulatory frameworks
• Event planning and delivery
We also encourage applications from early career professionals and those from underrepresented backgrounds. Lived experience is valued alongside formal qualifications.
Trustee Responsibilities
As a trustee, you will:
• Uphold REA’s charitable objectives and public benefit purpose
• Contribute to strategic decision-making and governance
• Attend quarterly Board meetings (remote, approx. 2 hours)
• Participate in key decisions between meetings (by email or short calls)
• Take shared responsibility for operational oversight (e.g., reviewing policies, helping with events or partnerships)
You may also be invited to take on a named officer role (e.g., Chair, Treasurer) or lead on a specific functional area if desired.
What You’ll Gain
In addition to trustee responsibiltiies outlined above, we want to further the charity’s impact by supporting areas that you, as a Trustee, are interested in.
• Be part of a meaningful organisation shaping ethical research practice
• Gain or deepen experience in charity governance
• Work with like-minded colleagues in an open and collaborative environment
• Enhance your CV through trustee experience and strategic leadership
• Contribute your ideas and skills to a growing organisation committed to public good
All trustee roles are voluntary and remote. We estimate around 1–2 hours per week, but this is flexible and varies with your availability and role.
Eligibility
• Must be 18+ and eligible to serve as a charity trustee under UK law
• Based in the UK or able to attend remote meetings in GMT time zone
• Passionate about ethical research and public engagement
How to Apply
To express interest, please email the Chair, Warren Speed, at w.speed@ethics-association.org with:
• A short statement about your background and interest in REA
• Your CV (or LinkedIn profile)
If you’re unsure whether you meet the criteria or would just like an informal chat, feel free to get in touch. We’d be happy to hear from you.
Equal Opportunities
REA is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. We strongly encourage applications from individuals who are underrepresented in the charity and research sectors, including (but not limited to) people of colour, disabled people, LGBTQ+ individuals, carers, and those from low-income backgrounds.