Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland

The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university and one of the world’s major research universities. As the country’s largest and most comprehensive university, the University of Auckland conducts teaching and research across eight faculties and two large-scale research institutes.

High-Value Nutrition Vision Mātauranga Leader

High-Value Nutrition Ko Ngā Kai Whai Painga is the New Zealand National Science Challenge with the mission to grow the science excellence and knowledge New Zealand needs to create and deliver food to the world that people choose to stay healthy and well.

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

This position is fixed-term (until June 30, 2024) and part-time (Negotiable FTE)

We have a vacancy for a senior leader to provide leadership and oversight to the High-Value Nutrition (HVN) National Science Challenge’s Vision Mātauranga strategy, policy development, aims and aspirations. This is an important role within a team that is contributing to New Zealand’s knowledge economy and growth of the food and beverage sector.

As a key member of the Directorate, you will support the achievement of the overall objectives and KPIs of HVN, with a primary focus on outcomes relating to Māori. You will support HVN Māori researchers, food and beverage businesses, whānau / hapū / iwi and diverse Māori communities associated with the Challenge, in their aspirations to use science and mātauranga to underpin food and beverage innovation in line with their values. You will also represent relevant issues to the HVN Governance Board, making recommendations as appropriate. 

The role is key in supporting the Challenge Director and Chief Scientist of HVN to ensure value driven, sustainable and productive collaboration across all relevant parties pertaining to the Challenge, with a focus on outcomes and impact for Māori.

For more detailed information about the responsibilities and requirements of the role, please review the Position Description.

He kōrero mōu | About you

Preferably, you will have a strong knowledge of Te Tiriti, Wai262 and Vision Mātauranga policy content and associated implications. You will have a strong understanding of tikanga and knowledge of Te Reo. The ability to engage effectively with Māori communities and to communicate Challenge requirements, activities and findings in a culturally appropriate manner will be essential.

Knowledge of the National Science Challenges would be an advantage but not a requirement. The role engages at all levels including the Governance Board, academia, government, industry bodies, private enterprises and iwi and so you will have wide ranging networks.

A relevant tertiary qualification is considered essential, along with relevant work experience and knowledge of the food industry and the ability to manage a diverse workload.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

In the Liggins Institute, you will enjoy a close-knit, high performing culture, driven by a shared vision to understand how early life events impact lifelong health. In addition, you will enjoy working with some high-profile Researchers across the country that are contributing to research supporting the NZ food industry. 

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

• Flexible employment practices and a culture that supports work-life balance
• Career development programmes
• A competitive salary with five weeks’ annual leave
• 6.75% superannuation scheme

For more information please visit our Staff Benefits page.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Applications should be submitted online, before the closing date of Sunday 15th August and include an up to date CV and cover letter outlining what strengths you will bring to this role.

If you have any questions about this role, please contact Josh Chapman – [email protected]

In accordance with our commitment to equitable recruitment, the University welcomes applications from all suitably qualified and experienced candidates. In response to COVID-19 the New Zealand Government has imposed a travel ban and are currently only allowing New Zealand Residents, Citizens and visa holders meeting a strict exception policy to enter the country, all of whom must currently enter Government approved quarantine for two weeks on arrival.

It is uncertain when these border restrictions will change, and this may impact the degree to which an offshore candidate can engage in the interview process; or be available to commence in a new position. For more information and updates on the border restrictions visit the Immigration New Zealand website or the New Zealand Government’s official Covid-19 website.

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