Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland

Ko te whare Pūtaiao | The Faculty of Science at the University of Auckland is the largest and most highly ranked science faculty in New Zealand. The Faculty of Science is ranked among the top 90 science faculties worldwide by the QS World University Rankings. The 10 departments and schools that form the Faculty of Science represent the breadth and diversity of science in our modern world.

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.

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

We are seeking an outstanding and highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join an interdisciplinary research programme focused on enhancing the restoration potential of ecologically important shellfish species.

Shellfish restoration is a critical tool for rebuilding marine ecosystems, improving water quality, enhancing biodiversity, and supporting coastal resilience. However, restoration outcomes vary considerably among species due to differences in life-history traits, dispersal dynamics, habitat requirements, population connectivity, and environmental sensitivities.

This position will focus on applying network theory to identify the barriers limiting shellfish restoration and the recovery of ecosystem function. The successful candidate will integrate with a wider collaborative research team working at the interface of ecology, conservation, restoration science, and quantitative modelling.

Research Focus

The postdoctoral fellow will:

• Deploy ecological network models to marine restoration systems using experimental and observational datasets.
• Identify the ecological mechanisms and feedbacks that facilitate or constrain shellfish recovery.
• Work collaboratively with ecologists, restoration practitioners, iwi, community groups, and government agencies.
• Publish high-impact research in international journals and present findings at scientific conferences.
• Contribute to mentoring postgraduate students and fostering a collaborative research environment.

For more information on the role, please view the Position Description

This is a full-time (40 hrs per week), 24-month fixed-term role

The remuneration is $99,788 - $103,024 per annum, dependent on skills and experience

He kōrero mōu | About you

We are particularly interested in candidates who are interested in applying network approaches to investigate how species interactions, habitat characteristics, population connectivity, environmental conditions, and ecosystem feedbacks influence restoration success.

Applicants should have:

• A PhD in ecology, marine science, environmental science, applied mathematics, complex systems, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated expertise in network analysis and/or ecological modelling.
• Strong quantitative and computational skills (e.g., R, Python, Bayesian modelling, graph theory, statistical modelling).
• A strong publication record relative to career stage.
• Excellent communication skills and collaboration skills.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

This position provides an opportunity to contribute to high-impact research addressing pressing challenges in marine ecosystem restoration. The successful candidate will work within a supportive and collaborative research environment with access to leading researchers, extensive datasets, and opportunities for professional development.

We welcome applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds and perspectives and are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace.

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 scheme
• A competitive salary with five weeks’ annual leave

In 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. 

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Applications must be submitted online by the closing date, 6th November 2026, to be considered

Applicants should submit:

• A cover letter describing their interest in the position and relevant experience.
• A curriculum vitae.
• Contact details for at least two academic referees.
• Examples of relevant publications or research outputs.
• An indication of when they would be able to start if successful.

Please reach out to Jenny Hillman (Senior Lecturer - Marine Science) via [email protected]  for a confidential conversation. Please note we are happy to answer your questions, but we do not accept applications by email.

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