Research Ethics Committee Administrator

About the role

The Research Ethics Committee (REC) Administrator heads the REC Secretariat and oversees its day-to-day operations. The role coordinates research proposal submissions and reviews, manages REC meetings and communications, and ensures REC activities comply with institutional, national and international ethical standards. It reports directly to the Head of Research and Innovation and is offered as a fixed-term contract of three years, with the possibility of renewal.

Key responsibilities

• Assist researchers in submitting documents to the REC in line with guidelines and SOPs, and guide them on requirements, timelines and compliance obligations.
• Hold awareness sessions for faculty, students and other stakeholders on REC operations.
• Screen application packages for completeness and eligibility before REC review, and track proposals through the review and approval process.
• Review amendments and responses to queries, and forward satisfactory ones to the REC Chairperson and designated members for final approval.
• Coordinate the protocol review process, including assigning reviewers and following up on time.
• Organize and manage REC meetings, prepare agendas, and ensure accurate recording and circulation of minutes.
• Facilitate communication between REC members, researchers and stakeholders.
• Manage daily administration, including correspondence, filing and database management.
• Oversee REC revenue streams, including fee collection, financial records and reporting.
• Plan, monitor and evaluate REC activities to ensure efficiency and compliance.

Required profile

• Master's degree in Applied Ethics, Bioethics, Engineering Ethics, Business Ethics and Compliance, Public Health, Law, Business Studies, Applied Sciences, Technology, Social Sciences or a related field.
• At least four years of experience in research ethics, research management or related regulatory/compliance work.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the research regulatory environment in Malawi, including NCST procedures, intellectual property rights and relevant national laws and regulations.
• Strong understanding of the university's structures, culture and research environment across diverse academic disciplines.
• Proven administrative and organisational skills, able to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.

Applications with three traceable referees must be sent by Friday 27 November 2026 to the Registrar, MUBAS, P/Bag 303, Chichiri, Blantyre, indicating the position in the subject line; hard copies are not accepted.