Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Gracefield, Lower Hutt, Wellington, New Zealand (On-site)

Job Description

• Do you have a PhD in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a closely related field?
• Can you demonstrate hands-on experience with cryogenic systems and instrumentation?
• Have you got excellent communication skills alongside the willingness to learn new skills required to address difficult problems?

Kōrero mō te tūranga - About the role

Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington is currently recruiting a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow to join the Paihau - Robinson Research Institute team on a fixed-term, full-time contract.

The Paihau - Robinson Research Institute has an international reputation for superconducting engineering, materials physics and manufacturing engineering. We offer a unique opportunity for a high-achieving engineer to work alongside some of New Zealand’s top research scientists and engineers contribute to cutting-edge research in next-generation electric propulsion, high-efficiency power conversion, and ultra-low-temperature electronics, with applications spanning aerospace, grid systems, and quantum technologies. Our work encompasses discovery science through to commercial implementation.

We are seeking an early career post-doctoral engineer to work on a number of applied HTS engineering programmes in rotating machines, magnetic levitation, magnet systems and brushless exciters. The successful applicant will contribute to a range of applied projects, working closely with our international and domestic research partners.

The successful applicant must be prepared to perform a large variety of tasks: designing prototypes and programming tasks, occasionally fabricating and assembling prototypes, undertaking modelling and calculations, and always involving challenging problem-solving.

Ō pūmanawa - About you

Key requirements:

• Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following: AC loss measurement and simulation in high temperature superconducting wires and coils.
• Having good knowledge in AC loss characteristics of Bi-2212 and REBCO wires and cables.
• Hands-on experience with cryogenic systems and instrumentation.
• Proficiency in modelling simulation tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, ANSYS Maxwell, COMSOL, or equivalent.
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals and/or demonstrated innovation in experimental methods.
• Practical implementation and prototype build skills.
• Self-motivated and able to work in a fast-paced environment alongside other high-performing researchers.
• Aptitude and willingness to learn new skills required to address difficult problems.
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and project management skills.

Role Description: Click here to see further information, including salary details.

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

Close date for vacancy: 25 March 2026.

Contact details for vacancy: If you have any questions regarding this role, please get in touch with Jeannie Redman, Institute Manager (jeannie.redman@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.

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

Are you ready to push the boundaries of science and technology? Join Paihau - Robinson Research Institute! We’re pioneering high-temperature superconductivity and advanced technologies to revolutionise industries worldwide. Collaborate with top scientists and engineers in a dynamic, multicultural environment. Be part of groundbreaking research and make a real impact. Ready to shape the future? Apply now and embark on an exciting journey with us!

Apply Now

Job Info

• Job Identification 1009354
• Job Category Academic
• Posting Date 03/10/2026, 03:14 AM
• Apply Before 03/25/2026, 10:55 AM
• Job Schedule Full time
• Locations 69 Gracefield Road, Lower Hutt, 5010, NZ (On-site)