"Researcher in Fungal-Plant Interactions"

Job Description:

Two-year fixed term role to advance sustainable agriculture through innovative research on fungal-plant interactions in a collaborative, cross-disciplinary environment.

Mō te tūka | The role

Join a collaborative, multi-institutional research team investigating how fungal molecules influence plant interactions. This role supports an MBIE-funded programme focused on sustainable agriculture and offers opportunities to contribute to impactful research in plant molecular biology.

Based in the Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, you'll access cutting-edge labs, field facilities, and a strong academic community dedicated to plant and environmental science.

Some tasks of the role include:

• Conducting research on fungal volatile organic compounds and plant interactions
• Publishing research in reputable peer-reviewed journals
• Contributing to research with socio-economic impact in NZ and globally
• Collaborating with researchers across universities and disciplines
• Participating in meetings, seminars and outreach activities
• Supporting health, safety, and ethical research standards

Two year fixed-term role, 37.5 hours per week (1.0 FTE) at our Lincoln Campus. Salary: $75,000 - $85,000 per annum, depending on experience.

Kā tino Pūkeka/Whēako | Essential skills/experience for the role

You will have:

• A PhD in plant molecular biology or a closely related field
• Proven experience in molecular biology, biochemistry or plant genetics
• Familiarity with PC2 lab environments and genetically modified plants
• Strong communication, teamwork, and project management skills
• An emerging track record of academic publishing
• Knowledge of bioinformatics tools (R, Bash, NeSI) is an advantage
• Alignment with Manaakitaka and Lincoln University values.

Kā hua ka riro ki a koe | What's in it for you?

At Lincoln University, you'll be part of a supportive and inclusive workplace that values diversity and equal opportunity.

From day one, enjoy a range of benefits designed to support your professional growth, wellbeing, and work-life balance, including:

• Grow your career with expert-led training & mentorship
• Generous leave - five weeks of paid leave per year (based on 1.0 FTE)
• Free on-site parking for added convenience
• Flexible, family-friendly work environment promoting work-life balance
• Wellbeing support - free, confidential services through ClearHead
• Exclusive employee benefits with Southern Cross Health Insurance
• On-campus gym with discounted membership fees
• Access to an on-site early childhood centre with staff discounts
• Boost rewards membership for retail & service discounts
• Engaging social culture - staff groups, activities & events
• A vibrant university community - beautiful gardens, on-site cafés & a collaborative atmosphere.

Mō mātou | About us

Te Whare Wānaka o Aoraki | Lincoln University is a specialist institution dedicated to impactful research and higher education that supports land-based industries in New Zealand and globally.

Our campus sits at the heart of the Lincoln research precinct, complemented by university-owned farms and research stations that blend education, research, and hands-on learning. At Lincoln, students are at the heart of everything we do—we empower them to grow their potential and contribute to a more sustainably productive world through world-class teaching and research.

As a progressive university with an ambitious vision, we value a professional workforce that reflects the diversity of our community. Our staff engage with students, parents, government, iwi, and external stakeholders, upholding Lincoln University's reputation through their work.

Our Te Tiriti o Waitangi commitments begin with mana whenua. We honour our special relationship with Ngāi Te Ruahikihiki and Te Taumutu Rūnanga, embedded in our He Tūtohinga Whakamātau | Charter of Understanding.

Tono ināianei | Apply now

Ready to apply? Submit your CV and a cover letter that highlights your fit for the role—tell us what makes you the ideal candidate!

Applications received via email will not be considered, however specific enquiry relating to the role can be made to artemio.mendoza@lincoln.ac.nz or john.hampton@lincoln.ac.nz

We are only considering applicants who have current unrestricted legal working rights in New Zealand. We are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this role.

Applications may close earlier than the advertised deadline if we receive enough suitable candidates. Submit yours early to ensure you're considered.