Lecturer or Postdoctoral Fellow in Finite Geometry and Coding Theory

Te Kaupeka Pūhanga | Faculty of Engineering

Te Kura Pāngarau | School of Mathematics and Statistics

Located in Ōtautahi | Christchurch, Aotearoa | New Zealand

• Full-time 37.5 hours per week (1.0 FTE)
• Fixed term position:
• 21 months as Postdoctoral fellow (no teaching) OR
• 2.5 years as Lecturer (teaching)

Āu Mahi | What You Will Do

There is an opportunity for a fixed term Lecturer or Postdoctoral position in Finite Geometry and Coding theory at the University of Canterbury (UC) funded by the Marsden Grant “New Geometric Perspectives for Error-correcting Codes”.

This grant is held by Associate Prof. Geertrui Van de Voorde (PI), University of Canterbury, Christchurch and Dr. Ferdinando Zullo (AI), Universita Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta. The project focuses on the geometric properties of certain classes of error-correcting codes, such as minimal codes, additive codes, subspace codes, and rank-metric codes.

In this role you will undertake research related to the project, independently and in collaboration with other researchers. If you prefer the lecturer position, in addition to this, you will also have a small teaching load (up to 60 lecture hours spread over the 2.5 year period) and teach into our existing courses.

Some funding for research and conference travel, related to this project, is available.

Mōu | Who You Are

• You hold a PhD in Pure Mathematics
• You have a strong research background in a topic closely related to the Marsden project “New Geometric Perspectives for Error-correcting Codes”: Finite Geometry, Algebraic Geometry, Coding Theory
• You have an excellent publication track record as well as experience with preparation and delivery of quality oral presentations to a wide range of audiences
• You can work creatively and independently.

Additionally, for the lecturer position:

• You demonstrate the ability and commitment to deliver high-quality teaching at the undergraduate level.

Mahi Ngātahi | Who You Will Work With

The School of Mathematics and Statistics is one of the largest and most diverse academic units at the University. We teach thousands of students each year across a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, and our staff are internationally recognised for both their research and teaching excellence.

Our team is committed to creating an inclusive, student-centred learning environment where innovative teaching and impactful research come together. We take pride in our collegial culture, our engagement with communities, and our dedication to improving the student experience. The school offers exciting opportunities for academics who are passionate about shaping the future of mathematics and statistics education while advancing their own careers.

Ngā Painga o UC | Why UC

Tangata Tū, Tangata Ora –– Engaged, Empowered, Making a Difference.

We are committed to accessible higher education, service to the community and the encouragement of talent without barriers of distance, wealth, class, gender or ethnicity. The University explicitly aims to produce graduates and support staff who are engaged with their communities, empowered to act for good and determined to make a difference in the world.

Mea e tukua nei | What we offer

The University is committed to providing an excellent working environment, this includes:

• supportive working environment
• professional development and study opportunities
• living in revitalised Ōtautahi | Christchurch, Aotearoa New Zealand
• a unique working environment in a beautiful campus with access to UC facilities such as the recreation centre and Staff Club at discounted rates plus onsite cafés and eateries, and more.

For more information on our Benefits, please visit https://www.canterbury.ac.nz/joinus/benefits/

Pēhea te tono mai | How You Apply

Apply via our careers website including the following:

• Document 1: A cover letter including names and contact information for 3 academic references
• Document 2: A CV that includes a list of relevant research publications.

This role sits within the Academic Staff, Associated Staff and Support Staff Collective Agreement and the following salary scale applies:

Appointable salary for a Postdoctoral Fellow will be $64,097 - $96,145 (pa)

Appointable salary for a Lecturer $94,181 - $99,713 (pa)

The closing date for this position is: Sunday, 7 June 2026 (midnight NZ time)

Please note, applications will be reviewed after the close date.

We do not accept applications by email, however, we are happy to answer any queries at WorkatUC@canterbury.ac.nz

For further information specifically about the role, please contact: Associate Professor Geertrui Van de Voorde, geertrui.vandevoorde@canterbury.ac.nz

For overseas applicants, please visit Immigration New Zealand website, to review the latest health and visa requirements for visiting and working in New Zealand.