Kairuruku | Research Assistant

Kelburn, Wellington, New Zealand (On-site)

Job Description

• Have you got prior experience in protein expression and purification?
• Can you quickly learn new techniques and new technologies to operate independently?
• Are you a collaborative and self-motivated professional who builds strong relationships across diverse stakeholders?

Kōrero mō te tūranga - About the role

Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington is currently recruiting a Kairuruku - Research Assistant to join the Ferrier Research Institute team on a 3.5-month fixed-term contract.

Key responsibilities:

• Perform experimental work in molecular biology, protein expression, purification, and biophysical characterisation at laboratory scale.
• Design and execute experiments involving recombinant protein production (e.g. cloning, site-directed mutagenesis, expression optimisation, purification).
• Conduct biophysical and biochemical assays, including but not limited to isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), differential scanning fluorimetry (DSF), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and standard protein characterisation techniques.
• Operate laboratory instrumentation relevant to protein science (e.g. chromatography systems, plate readers, calorimetry platforms), ensuring accurate data collection and quality control.
• Analyse and interpret experimental data, including binding, stability, and thermodynamic measurements, using appropriate software and quantitative methods.
• Apply scientific literature and established protocols to design, troubleshoot, and optimise experimental workflows.
• Exercise independent judgment in selecting and adapting experimental approaches, while working within defined project objectives.
• Maintain clear, accurate, and well-organised laboratory records in accordance with best research practices.
• Communicate results effectively through written reports, presentations, and discussions with supervisors and collaborators.
• Work efficiently to contribute to short-term research goals within the defined project timeline.

Ō pūmanawa - About you

You will be a collaborative and self-motivated professional who builds strong relationships across diverse stakeholders, communicates effectively, and applies sound judgement, innovation, and integrity to deliver high-quality, client-focused outcomes.

Key requirements:

• Minimum MSc or equivalent in Molecular biology, Biochemistry or a related discipline.
• Prior experience in protein expression and purification.
• Ability to quickly learn new techniques and new technologies to operate independently.
• Clear, effective two-way communication with research teams.
• Familiarity with literature searching techniques and data analysing software.
• Ability to organize and document research, analytical data, and products in a traceable manner.
• Ability to work as part of a highly collaborative team.

Role Description: [Click here to see further information, including salary details.](https://vuw.sharepoint.com/:b:/s/VacancyRoleDescriptions/IQALiiXuLxTcRL-cdajiMGQGAb4Ts6Gh7xz7lLNBinY4adw?e=bZZgV3&download=1)

If this link is not available, click 'apply' to view this on the University career's page.

Close date for vacancy: 05 June 2026.

Contact details for vacancy: If you have any questions regarding this role please get in touch with Wanting Jiao (wanting.jiao@vuw.ac.nz).

How to apply: Please ensure you are applying for this role directly on our careers page and not via email. Candidates must submit supporting documents along with their resume, such as a cover letter. Applicants who do not have residency or citizenship and require a visa to work at the University must clearly indicate their visa status in their application and understand that if they do not have a current, relevant visa, they will need to secure this independently.

Mō Te Herenga Waka - About Our University

Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington is renowned for its high-quality research and exceptional teaching. We attract people from around the world. Our university campus spans Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington - the creative, scientific and political centre of Aotearoa New Zealand - and our students thrive on the connections we have made here.

Explore the many benefits of working at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington. Find out where you fit in our strategic direction and learn more about our research expertise.

Ētahi kōrero hai āwhina i a koe - Why you should join our team

Discover Te Kāuru - Ferrier Research Institute, where a world-class team of experts in chemistry and biology tackles global and Aotearoa-specific challenges. Be part of a close-knit, innovative team driving breakthroughs in health, sustainability, and more. With over 50 professional scientists and cutting-edge research, your creativity and expertise will thrive here. Shape the future with us at Te Kāuru - Ferrier Research Institute.

Apply Now

Job Info

• Job Identification 1009650
• Job Category Academic
• Posting Date 05/22/2026, 03:28 AM
• Apply Before 06/05/2026, 11:55 AM
• Job Schedule Full time
• Locations 69 Gracefield Road, Lower Hutt, 5010, NZ (On-site)