The Brock University Research Ethics Board (REB) is seeking volunteer members for its Aboriginal Research Advisory Circle (ARAC).

The ARAC acts as an advisor to the REB by conducting culturally informed reviews of research projects that relate to First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples, with consideration for Indigenous cultural protocols, histories and traditions.

Interested applicants, who can be from the Brock or wider Niagara community, should identify as Indigenous and have lived cultural experience. Ideally, the committee will reflect the rich diversity among and within Indigenous communities.

Brock’s Acting Vice-Provost, Indigenous Engagement Robyn Bourgeois said the ARAC serves a critical role.

“Our commitment to decolonization demands that we develop research that doesn’t harm Indigenous Peoples and respects our ways of knowing and being, and applicable research protocols,” she said. “The ARAC team provides essential guidance to Brock researchers on how to do research with Indigenous Peoples in a good way.”

Additional details for those considering joining ARAC:

• Members are appointed for a two-year term (renewable).
• Training is provided.
• Commitment is about two to four hours per month.
• Meetings are conducted in a hybrid format (in-person and online) to accommodate members.
• Consideration will be given with respect to members’ contribution and time.

Anyone interested in joining ARAC is asked to send a statement of interest outlining their cultural experience to Lori Walker, Manager Research Ethics, at lori.walker@brocku.ca