Kaitohutohu Mātanga Pūtaiao Matua ki te Pirimia | The Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor (PMCSA) advises the Prime Minister to enable scientific evidence to inform good decision making in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity  

We are currently looking for a talented and enthusiastic Research Analyst and Writer who will support the PMCSA as an analyst and writer; provide web content and operational support, and assist in the provision of advice, reviews and written material as required to meet the needs of the Prime Minister.

You will need to be adept at synthesising scientific evidence to inform policy, and presenting information in an accessible style, across a variety of formats, for a variety of audiences.

If you are a highly motivated individual, keen to use your science knowledge and communication skills to make a difference to Aotearoa New Zealand, this position could be for you.

Applications will be considered for this role, either as a Senior Research and Policy Analyst, or a Research Analyst and Writer. Please include a recent writing sample with your application.

This role is a fixed-term position with an end date of 30 June 2024

For more detailed information, please refer to the position descriptions:

• Research Analyst and Writer, click here
• Senior Research and Policy Analyst, click here

Mō tō māou rōpū | About the team  

The Office has a small team and advises on a very wide range of topics. We act as a trusted, independent, inclusive, accessible, bridge between science, society, and government, and we want your skills to contribute to that vision.

For more information on who we are and what we do, please visit our website

He kōrero mōu | About you 

Our ideal candidate will have a breadth of knowledge, an open mind, and an appetite to learn new disciplines and ways of thinking. 

To be a good fit for this position you will be resilient and able to work under pressure, able to go the extra mile when workloads spike and highly adaptable to constantly changing priorities.  A sense of humour will be a great advantage.

Nga Pūkenga Motuhake | Important Skills  

• Experience, background and interest in scientific disciplines complementary to those in the team is an advantage, and a relevant postgraduate degree is essential (or equivalent combination of postgraduate studies and experience).
• Composed and able to work efficiently and effectively under pressure, comfortable interacting with a wide range of stakeholders, and respond well to challenges and challenging stakeholders.
• Committed to the efforts of the Office to respect Te Tiriti o Waitangi and promote inclusion, diversity and transparency.
• Enjoy meeting tight deadlines on occasion, able to work with minimal supervision, and a good team player. 

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

We offer an opportunity within New Zealand’s leading University that will have a positive impact on the lives of students. We also offer: 

• Five weeks’ annual leave per annum 
• Up to 6.75% employer superannuation contribution 
• Over 300 different career development courses and programmes 
• Discounted parking and various leisure and recreation services 
• A diverse and inclusive working environment 

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 Sunday 20th February 2022 to be considered.  

Please include your cover letter and/or CV highlighting how you can meet the skills and experiences detailed above. Please also include a recent writing sample with your application.

Covid-19 Vaccination

The University of Auckland is committed to protecting the health, safety and well-being of our staff and students.  All students, staff and visitors need to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19, or medically exempt, in order to come onto our campuses or to take part in face-to-face University-managed activities. Therefore, we are only able to consider applicants who are fully vaccinated against Covid-19 or have a New Zealand Ministry of Health issued medical exemption and evidence of this will be requested as part of your employment. You can read more about the University’s vaccination policy here.

Overseas Applicants

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 seven days 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.

Equity

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