The Humane Research Trust awards grants to UK scientists to develop new research methods to replace the use of animals in medical research. This year we are embarking on an ambitious new strategy to increase our impact. Could you be the person to lead that change?
What difference will you make?
As a trustee with sound judgement and strong experience of governance you will help ensure our board makes decisions that align with our objects and our supporters' values, that make a positive difference to medical research and animals, and that are within our financial boundaries.
Experience, Skills And Abilities
- At least three years’ experience as a charity trustee or as a member of an equivalent decision‑making committee e.g. school governor, local government statutory committee member or NHS board member;
- Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of charity trusteeship;
- Confidence to lead a board in an inclusive and collaborative way, inspiring and supporting everyone to participate;
- Capacity to balance diplomacy and working relationships with a willingness to challenge and constructively criticise;
- Interest in medical research innovations;
- Passionate about replacing animals in research;
- Committed to Nolan’s seven principles of public life selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
Personal attributes
- Outward-looking and curious, keen to build relationships and champion our work;
- Independent, strategic and creative thinker;
- Collaborative team player;
- Sufficiently local to the Trust to visit the offices;
- Able and willing to commit the time (an average of 15 hours per quarter) to support the Trust and CEO, largely during weekday working hours.
Hybrid
What will you be doing?
We have been around since 1962, first as the Lawson Tait Medical and Scientific Research Trust and subsequently as The Humane Research Trust. We are the largest charitable funder of animal‑replacement research in the UK.
We are a tight run charity of 11 trustees and 4 paid employees. Our trustees are responsible for setting the strategy and ensuring the charity’s operations, finances, HR and risks are well‑managed. Our CEO has delegated responsibility for day‑to‑day operations. In addition, an independent scientific advisory panel supports the Trust in its grant‑making activities.
In this role you will chair the board’s quarterly meetings (in‑person) and attend the quarterly meetings of the board’s 4 sub‑committees - marketing & fundraising, audit & finance, science, and operations (in‑person or online). Outside of the formal meetings, you will provide oversight and support to the CEO and team, and will have shared responsibility for second approvals on bank payments as one of the Trust’s bank signatories.
Our current chair intends to step down in December owing to personal commitments. If you are passionate about supporting good science and helping animals, and have the appetite to help drive us forward, this could be the perfect role for you.
Chair of Trustees — Lead Strategic Governance for Ethical Research in Bramhall employer: The Humane Research Trust
The Humane Research Trust is an exceptional employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact in medical research and animal welfare. With a collaborative work culture and a commitment to innovative research methods, we offer unique opportunities for personal growth and the chance to lead transformative change in the sector. As a volunteer trustee, you will join a dedicated team that values your expertise and passion, all while working in a supportive environment that champions inclusivity and strategic thinking.
