"Research Advisor"

Who we are/Mō mātou

The University of Otago is New Zealand's first and oldest University. It has a strong teaching and research tradition and well-established national and international linkages. It is also one of New Zealand's largest universities, with over 20,000 students, assets in excess of $1.6 billion and 4,000 full time equivalent staff based in Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington, Auckland and Invercargill.

Since its beginning it placed a high value on education and recognised the important role universities play in shaping individuals and society – we are committed to continuing that vision and growing it to fit today’s and tomorrow’s world. To that end, we place high priority on our partnership with tangata whenua and the importance of te ao Māori.

The Research and Enterprise Office (R&E) supports and assists University of Otago researchers in the identification of funding opportunities, partnering with business, grant applications, and the establishment of research contracts. Since its formation in 2011, R&E has grown research income from $88M to over $180M, through an extended period of significant change in government strategy and investment.

The role/Te Mahi

As a Research Advisor in the Research and Enterprise Office you will play a vital role in supporting academic staff by providing strategic advice and assistance in developing research funding applications and managing research projects. You will contribute to maximising the University's external research income, publications, and intellectual property outcomes through effective contract negotiation.

Key tasks of this role include:

• Identify and advise on funding opportunities for academic staff and researchers.
• Assist with preparing and reviewing grant applications to enhance their competitiveness.
• Negotiate research contracts that optimise external research income and align with University objectives.
• Support the establishment and ongoing management of research projects.
• Foster partnerships with businesses, academic staff, students, and Otago Innovation Ltd to promote enterprise and collaborative research.

Your skills and experience/Kā pūkeka me kā wheako

This role serves as a vital administrative link with external funders and plays a strategic advisory role within the Division and across the University. To excel in this position, you will ideally hold a PhD and possess extensive knowledge of New Zealand's academic and research landscape.

Key skills and experience include:

• Proven expertise in strategic project planning and implementation within academic or business environments.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication abilities, including experience in crafting and evaluating research proposals.
• Demonstrated capability to plan and manage multiple projects and stakeholders simultaneously.
• A professional, enthusiastic, and client-focused approach to work.
• Cultural competency and a strong understanding of the University’s commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
• Experience or qualifications in Humanities would be advantageous.

Further details/Pūroko

This is a full-time permanent position based in Ōtepoti, Dunedin. Part-time applications may also be considered, please specify this in your cover letter.

You must have the right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this position.

The appointments range for this role is $96,587 to $105,532, Top of Range $114,474.

The University of Otago is a workplace that values and utilises diverse and inclusive thinking, people, and behaviours. This means that the contributions of staff with diverse backgrounds, experiences, skills, and perspectives are valued and respected.

For further information, or to discuss the role in confidence – please contact Dr Rachel Elliot, Senior Research Advisory Manager.

Application/Tono

To submit your application (including CV and cover letter) please click the apply button below.

Applications quoting reference number 2600195 will close on Sunday, 22 February 2026.

Additional Information

Contact: Dr Rachel Elliot

Position details: Job Description

Further Information: Department Website

Location: About Dunedin