"Pūkenga/Pūkenga Matua | Lecturer/Senior Lecturer in Physics"

Kelburn, Wellington, New Zealand (On-site)

Job Description

• Do you have a PhD in Physics or a closely related field?
• Have you got expertise in cosmology, radio astronomy, or space instrumentation?
• Are you committed to high-quality research and teaching, with a strong record of published academic research?

Kōrero mō te tūranga - About the role Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington is currently recruiting a Pūkenga - Lecturer or Pūkenga Matua - Senior Lecturer in Physics to join Te Wānanga Matū - School of Chemical and Physical Sciences on a permanent, full-time basis.

The appointee will be involved in developing, administering, and teaching into our undergraduate and postgraduate physics and space science courses. There will be an expectation to contribute and grow our physics and space science programmes, as well as recruit and supervise postgraduate students. Establishing or maintaining an Aotearoa New Zealand-based research programme will be important, along with an ability to attract external research funding. 

Key responsibilities:

• Deliver and coordinate high-quality undergraduate and postgraduate courses, implementing innovative teaching methods and mentoring students.
• Establish and/or develop a robust research program, secure external funding, supervise postgraduate students, and disseminate research findings.
• Contribute to the strategic goals of Te Wānanga Matū - School of Chemical and Physical Sciences, such as improving the student experience and recruiting and retaining underrepresented student groups. 
• Contribute to service and leadership within the School, Faculty, University and/or wider profession.

Ō pūmanawa - About youYou will be motivated by a passion for Physics and/or Space Science and be committed to high-quality research and teaching. We particularly encourage those who can incorporate Māori and Pasifika perspectives and interests into their research, as well as candidates with expertise in cosmology, radio astronomy, or space instrumentation, to apply.Key requirements:  

• A PhD in physics or a closely related field.
• Excellent teaching skills, with experience such as lecturing, leading tutorials, or the delivery of laboratory classes.
• A strong record of published academic research.
• Proven ability to secure research funding and manage research projects.
• Outstanding people and communication skills.
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to work closely and collegially with other academic, technical, and administrative staff members to achieve the teaching goals of the School.
• For appointment at Pūkenga Matua - Senior Lecturer level, experience in teaching, research, and engagement commensurate with the role will be required.

Role Descriptions: Click the below links to see further information, including salary details. Pūkenga - LecturerPūkenga Matua - Senior LecturerIf these links are not available, click 'apply' to view them on the University careers page. Close date for vacancy: 15 March 2026.Contact details for vacancy: If you have any questions regarding this role please get in touch with Head of School, Associate Professor Rob Keyzers (robert.keyzers@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

Explore Te Wānanga Matū - School of Chemical & Physical Sciences! Engage in groundbreaking research in chemistry and physics. Collaborate with world-class researchers and be part of a vibrant team pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery in a dynamic and supportive environment. Innovation meets excellence here!

Apply Now

Job Info

• Job Identification 1009100
• Job Category Academic
• Posting Date 01/27/2026, 01:44 AM
• Apply Before 03/15/2026, 10:55 AM
• Job Schedule Full time
• Locations Laby Building, Kelburn Parade, Wellington, 6012, NZ (On-site)