The Faculty of Arts at The University of Auckland is seeking to appoint an early-career Postdoctoral  Research Fellow in Pacific Studies to join a world-first research project.  The role is part-time (0.3FTE) and fixed-term for three years

Applications are welcomed across the full range of academic expertise focusing on the Pacific, though the fields of Society, Environment & Pacific Wellbeing and have been identified as priorities.  

About the Role

As a Research Fellow, you will be engaging with a range of researchers, experts, policymakers and stakeholders both locally and internationally.  You will ideally bring a passion for Pacific communities and a research background in issues facing Pacific communities, such as wellbeing, mental health and/or climate change. 

You will be part of a project funded by the Health Research Council of New Zealand, working with key stakeholders and using your project management skills to roll out an exciting piece of research.  Working with the lead academic, the main responsibilities of this role will include:

• Developing and navigating your own research niche
• Project coordination and general administration
• Assisting with ethical approval processes and applications
• Contributing to the development and design of research methods
• Research analysis, reporting writing, and preparing publications - you will have the opportunity to be a named author

You will also be invited to be an occasional guest lecturer in our Pacific Studies programme,  to share our research and inspire students.  

Who are we looking for? 

We are in search of candidates with: 

• a PhD in a relevant discipline and a record of research
• Record in displaying a high competence in Pacific research and methodologies.
• In-depth knowledge and networks in Pacific Communities is advantageous for this role 

Information on Pacific Studies may be accessed through the website of the Faculty of Arts: http://www.arts.auckland.ac.nz .

Work with us

As a Research Fellow, you will contribute to life-changing researching which will have positive effects on Pacific Communities on a local and global level.  This role will give you an opportunity to build your academic profile and be part of an exciting project.  

The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading University and is committed to providing an excellent working environment through:

• Flexible employment practices
• Career development programmes
• A competitive salary with five weeks’ annual leave
• Company superannuation scheme, 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.

About Pacific Studies Programme

Pacific Studies at the University of Auckland is a global leader in research and teaching on the Pacific.  It was established in 1985 to promote scholarship, research, teaching and engagement with the Pacific region, within the University and the nation, it is also an important interface between the University and Pacific communities who make up a significant and rapidly growing proportion of New Zealand, particularly in Auckland. 

Housed in a purpose-built complex adjacent to the University's striking Fale Pasifika, Pacific Studies offers a BA major and postgraduate programmes from BA (Hons) to PhD in Pacific Studies, as well as undergraduate language courses in Samoan, Tongan and Cook Islands' Māori. The University is seeking either an academic with a record of excellence in teaching and research, or a promising scholar with the ability to achieve such a record. Pacific Studies has a vibrant research culture and an enviable track record of attracting major research grants and awards. 

For more information, on the types of research we do, please visit: https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/arts/about-the-faculty/te-waananga-o-waipapa/pacific-studies/research-at-a-glance.html

How to apply

Applicants seeking more detailed information on the position may contact: Dr Jemaima Tiatia-Seath, [email protected]  

Please note we are happy to answer your questions but we do not accept applications by email.

Applications must be submitted online, by the closing date of Sunday 23rd February 2020  to be considered. Please include your cover letter and CV combined as one document. 

For more information on the role, please view the position description.  

The 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, LGBTQITakatāpui+, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other equity issues go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz