Director, Riddet Institute

Director, Riddet Institute

Centre of Research Excellence | Food Science

Shape the Future of Food

This is a rare opportunity for a scholar–leader of international standing to shape the direction

of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most influential research platform in food science and human

nutrition.

The Riddet Institute is a nationally designated Centre of Research Excellence (CoRE),

internationally recognised for pioneering research that connects fundamental science with

industry-relevant and globally impactful outcomes. Hosted by Massey University, the Riddet

Institute operates through a high-trust, multi-institutional partnership model that brings

together leading researchers across New Zealand’s top universities and research

organisations, alongside deep partnerships with government agencies and major international

food companies.

As Director, you will provide both scientific and executive leadership for the Institute and its

CoRE mandate. You will shape long-term research direction, lead large-scale multi-partner

programmes, and steward the successful renewal of the CoRE and the growth of government

and industry investment. This role calls for a leader with the academic authority to unify

disciplines, the credibility to influence funding and policy environments, and the confidence

to represent the Institute on the global stage.

The role is based in Palmerston North, New Zealand—home to the most concentrated food,

agriculture, and bioscience ecosystem in the Southern Hemisphere. The location enables

unusually close integration between laboratories, pilot-scale facilities, industry partners, and

policymakers, while offering an exceptional quality of life that supports sustained leadership

and legacy building.

This apposition is a high-level professorial appointment for an academic with an

internationally recognised research profile, a strong record of funding success, and deep

industry networks. You will be comfortable in business development- scientifically,

strategically, and reputationally - and motivated by the opportunity to shape not only an

institute, but a field.

This is more than a directorship. It is an opportunity to define a scientific agenda, influence

global food systems, and leave an enduring imprint through leadership, partnership, and

impact.