Appointments to the Human Genetics Commission
The Department of Health and the Department for Innovation, Universities
and Skills have asked the Appointments Commission to carry out an exercise
to appoint a new Chair and eight members to the Human Genetics Commission.
Chair and 8 members
The Human Genetics Commission is the Government’s advisor on developments in human genetics and how they impact on individual lives, with a particular focus on social, ethical and legal issues.
We are looking for a strong, confident leader to take the organisation forward as it tackles issues that have an increasingly high public profile. Since the Chair must be without any current professional involvement in genetics, knowledge of the field is not essential. You do need, however, to be able to deal sensitively with stakeholders and senior government ministers alike, and be comfortable in dealing with the media.
We are also looking for new members with an outstanding track record in one of the following areas: moral philosophy/bioethics; genetics of complex diseases; the pharmaceutical industry; biomedical sciences research; patient interest (genetic disease); genetic counselling; customer focus; media/public communication.
In return, the Chair is paid £180.40 a day for a commitment of around two days a month. Time commitment for Members will be between 10-15 days a year, including attendance at up to 11 meetings, for which they are paid £148.59 a day. Quarterly plenary meetings are held at locations throughout the UK with other meetings usually held in London. In addition to travel and subsistence costs, help with childcare expenses is also available.
If you would like to find out more about these posts, a candidate information pack is available from here or by ringing 0870 240 3802 quoting reference DH8072. Let us know if you would like a pack in large type, Braille or tape.
Further information about the Human Genetics Commission is available from: www.hgc.gov.uk
The closing date for returning applications is 30 September 2008
Interviews for shortlisted candidates will be held in London towards the end of October and in early November 2008.
