Research Officer

About the role

This is a full-time, two-year fixed-term Research Officer role supporting a collaborative freshwater and environmental research programme at the Hillcrest Campus in Hamilton. The position is designed for someone who is highly driven and keen to contribute to research activities with real-world impact.

The work focuses on environmental data analysis and collaboration with established scientists and research partners in New Zealand and overseas. The research produced through this role is intended to inform freshwater and environmental management.

The salary range for this position is NZD 81,389 to NZD 97,791 per year, pro-rated according to the hours worked and aligned to the skills, knowledge, and experience the successful candidate brings. The role is 37.5 hours per week.

What the role involves

• Partner with leading researchers and research collaborators from local and international organisations.
• Support research work that contributes directly to freshwater and environmental decision-making.
• Assist with the delivery of a collaborative research programme across multiple disciplines.
• Carry out environmental data analysis, processing, management, and interpretation.

What we are looking for

Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in a relevant area such as environmental science, freshwater science, ecology, hydrology, or a related subject, ideally with a substantial research component such as a thesis.

You should have hands-on experience working with environmental, ecological, hydrological, or water quality datasets, along with familiarity using tools such as R, Python, GIS, or similar software for analysis.

Strong quantitative ability is essential, including the capacity to process, manage, and interpret data at a high level. The role also suits someone who is self-directed, flexible, and genuinely interested in freshwater ecosystems and environmental science.

You should be comfortable working in multidisciplinary teams, handling complex problems, and contributing to research with practical environmental outcomes. Applicants are encouraged to describe both their current strengths and the skills they would like to build further through the role.

About the team and organisation

The School of Science is committed to research that is academically excellent and relevant to real-world challenges. Its researchers are engaged in work that addresses major issues facing the Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions, Aotearoa New Zealand, and the wider world.

The University values diversity across its staff and students and welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds who meet the role requirements. The institution also emphasises community engagement, a high-quality learning environment, and research with national and international impact. Its guiding principles include the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity for all.

Application and employment notes

Only applications submitted through the online portal will be considered; emailed applications will not be accepted. Candidates may be contacted before the closing date because applications are reviewed as they are received.

For a confidential discussion about the role, contact Deniz Özkundakci, Toihuarewa Waimaori Bay of Plenty Regional Council Chair, at deniz.ozkundakci@waikato.ac.nz.

Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand in line with immigration requirements. The vacancy closes on Sunday, 12 July 2026. Requisition number: 1003702.

Additional information

This is a fixed-term position lasting 2 years and offers benefits as well as professional development opportunities.