Poutaki Hōtaka Rangahau | Research Programme Manager - Faculty of Science

Company Description

Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of AucklandTe Whare Pūtaiao | Faculty of Science is the leading science faculty in Aotearoa New Zealand and one of the largest in Australasia. We undertake world-class research across the physical, biological, and computational sciences. More than 8,000 students study across our ten schools and departments, learning from internationally recognised educators and researchers.

Our staff and students can connect with our flagship groups including Tuākana, Rainbow, Women of Colour, Māori, Pacific, Muslim, and Disabled Staff network and our Waipapa Marae.

Job Description

Te Whiwhinga mahi |

The opportunity

Are you an experienced relationship-focused research professional who thrives in complex environments, enjoys enabling impactful research, and values meaningful partnerships and collaboration?

We are seeking a Poutaki Hōtaka Rangahau (Research Programme Manager) to support a dynamic portfolio of research activity within the Faculty of Science. This is an opportunity to work alongside leading researchers, community partners, and stakeholders to help deliver research initiatives that make a difference across Aotearoa and beyond.

This role is ideal for someone who brings both operational excellence and a people-centered approach — someone who can navigate complexity, build trusted relationships, and confidently support research programmes from concept through to delivery.

Ngā Haepapa Matua |

Key Responsibilities

• (not limited too):
• You’ll play a pivotal role in supporting the successful planning, coordination, and delivery of research programmes and projects by:
• Partnering closely with researchers, iwi, community partners and stakeholders to deliver strategic research outcomes
• Providing end-to-end project and programme management support across multiple initiatives
• Supporting funding applications, research contracts, budgets, and reporting
• Acting as a trusted connector between researchers, communities, and stakeholders
• Translating complex scientific and research concepts into clear, engaging, and accessible language for a range of audiences
• Supporting culturally responsive engagement and practices across research activities
• Helping bridge and communicate kaupapa grounded in Te Ao Māori within academic and operational environments
• Guiding project planning, risk management, and operational delivery
• Contributing to continuous improvement and high-quality research support services
• For more detailed information on the role, accountabilities, and requirements, please review this position description
• This is a full‑time (37.5 hrs p/w), permanent position
• The remuneration range is $93,201 - $102,388 per annum, dependent on skills and experience.
• He kōrero mōu |

About you

• We’re interested in hearing from experienced professionals who bring:A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline (Science, Health or similar)
• A postgraduate qualification and/or PhDAt least 5 years’ experience within research, programme or project management environments
• Experience working within large, complex organisations and managing multiple priorities
• Strong financial, operational, and stakeholder management capability
• Excellent relationship-building and communication skills
• Experience as a science communicator, with the ability to translate complex ideas for diverse audiences
• Te Reo Māori capabilities and confidence operating within Te Ao Māori contexts
• The ability to interpret and communicate concepts and approaches grounded in Te Ao Māori in ways that are accessible across varied audiences and settings
• A strong understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its application within research, education, and community engagement settings
• An understanding of the New Zealand tertiary, research, or funding environment
• Confidence engaging within environments where tikanga, whakawhanaungatanga, and Te Ao Māori perspectives are valued and embedded in practice.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou |

What we offer

The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university and maintains significant computational, laboratory, and analytic facilities. Auckland itself is frequently ranked among the world’s most liveable cities.

The University is committed to providing an excellent working environment through:

Flexible employment practices (including working from home, flexible hours)Up to 6.75% company superannuation schemeA competitive salary with five weeks’ annual leaveIn addition, we also offer career development programmes, discounted car parking, a generous parental leave allowance, childcare, and a number of other discounts on internal and external services.

For more information, please visit Staff Benefits.

Me pēhea te tuku tono |

How to apply

Applications must be submitted online by the closing date of 26th July 2026 to be considered. Please include your cover letter and CV, highlighting how you can meet the skills and experience detailed above.

Please reach out to Patricia Gruver-Barr (Research Services Manager) via patricia.gruver-barr@auckland.ac.nz or Tui Kaumoana (Kaiārahi – Faculty of Science) via tui.kaumoana@auckland.ac.nz for a confidential conversation. Please note we are happy to answer your questions, but we do not accept applications by email.

Additional Information

EquityThe University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment. For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz