Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

Join us as a Research Grants and Contracts Intern and gain hands-on experience supporting the drafting, review and processing of research-related contracts that enable world-leading research at Waipapa Taumata Rau | University of Auckland.

This internship offers a unique opportunity to work within a research-intensive environment and learn how universities manage contracts, intellectual property, data, and commercial partnerships. You will be supported by experienced Contract Managers within Te Puna Tiketike | Research and Innovation Office (RIO), with opportunities to observe real-world contracting processes.

We are seeking two part-time Interns, who will have the opportunity to work a maximum of 15 hours per week on a 12-month fixed-term contract. 

What you’ll be doing

During your internship, you will:

• Support the drafting and review of research contracts, subcontracts and variations under guidance and supervision
• Assist with preparing documentation for contract processing and financial activation
• Help maintain accurate records of contracts within University systems
• Conduct preliminary analysis of contract clauses and escalate issues to senior staff
• Collaborate with a range of stakeholders, from researchers, FIRST teams and the Research Grants and Contracts team
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the Research Grants and Contracts workflow
• Develop a foundational understanding of Māori data sovereignty and its relevance to contracting
• Observe contract negotiations where appropriate and learn about the broader research and innovation ecosystem

Overall, you will gain practical experience in contract analysis, drafting, and research management within a large, research‑intensive institution. 

 He kōrero mōu | About you

We’re looking for students who are:

• Currently enrolled in the final year of a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or postgraduate Law programme at the University of Auckland
• Interested in contract law, commercial law, intellectual property, privacy, or public sector contracting
• Strong written communicators with excellent attention to detail
• Able to analyse and interpret legal information, with support
• Organised, reliable and comfortable managing competing priorities
• Keen to learn, ask questions and work collaboratively in a professional environment

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

• Flexible working arrangements to support study commitments
• Mentorship from experienced Contract Managers
• Exposure to research funding, university contracting processes and contract lifecycle management
• Opportunities to build employability skills in a supportive learning environment
• A chance to contribute to meaningful research activity across the University
• Salary $56,400 prorata

 Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Applications should be submitted online, before the closing date of Friday, 20th March 2026 and include a CV and a brief cover letter outlining:

• Your interest in learning more about Grants and Contracts in the Research space at UoA
• Confirming that you are a final year law student or a postgraduate

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, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz