Research Associate, Turitea
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Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University

Research Associate

  • Posted 1mo ago
  • On Site
  • Full Time

$71.27  -  $101.33 k/yr

Massey University, Turitea

Job Description

Job Title: Research Associate (SNi®)

Department: Riddet Institute

Location: Manawatū campus, Palmerston North

Closing Date: 30 August 2026


The Sustainable Nutrition Initiative® (SNi®) within the Riddet Institute is seeking applications for two full-time, fixed-term Research Associate roles,

one for up to 18 months and the other to cover a period of Parental Leave of up to 12 months.


The Riddet Institute is a world-best research centre in food and nutritional sciences, providing fundamental scientific understanding and training for a new generation of science leaders. The Institute integrates partner organisations (Massey University (host), Auckland and Otago Universities,


AgResearch and Plant & Food Research) and disciplines, leading a “NZ Inc” approach to food research, and generates knowledge and capability that transforms the New Zealand food industry.


The Institute has a history of being a vibrant, enjoyable, and fun place to work where we are all focused on “can do” and excellence in everything we do. We are interested in attracting a person who would enjoy that environment to join our team.


The Sustainable Nutrition Initiative® (SNi®) is a research programme advancing evidence for sustainable food systems. The research team use modelling, data science, and experimental approaches to understand how food production can meet the nutritional needs of the global and New Zealand populations in the future.


Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About the role

As a Research Associate (SNi®), you will collect, organise, maintain, and manage data to contribute to research leading to the development of food system models for the Kenya Interactive Food System.


Working closely with colleagues across SNi, the Riddet Institute, Massey University, and external partners, you will apply data science and systems modelling approaches to food systems research. You will use tools such as R and GitHub to develop reproducible workflows, deliver high-quality research outputs, and support the achievement of project milestones. The role also requires a strong commitment to collaboration, scientific excellence, and maintaining high standards of health, safety, ethics, and data management.


In this role, you will join a small, enthusiastic, and growing team of researchers, postgraduate researchers, and national and international collaborators.


Mōu | About you

To be successful in this role, you will bring:

  • Technical and analytical experience, with specific expertise in the use of R to perform data management, organisation, modelling, and visualisation
  • An understanding and enjoyment of science and interest in nutrition and/or sustainability is important.
  • Demonstrated experience working with large datasets such as surveys, experimental datasets, census data, GIS data.
  • A relevant tertiary qualification at bachelor’s degree level or higher plus three years of relevant experience.


Ko ngā hua o te tūranga? | What’s in it for you?

At Massey, we’re committed to being a Te Tiriti-led university and a great place to work. Our people enjoy a range of benefits, including:

  • Up to 6.75% employer superannuation contribution
  • Five university holidays in addition to standard annual leave
  • Competitive remuneration and professional development opportunities
  • Flexible working arrangements, where appropriate
  • Access to campus facilities including gyms, libraries, cafés, and childcare (location dependent)
  • Staff purchasing discounts with a variety of external partners


The salary for this position will depend on skills and experience but will be in the range of Grade 6 ($71,274 to $101,329).


Please note: As part of your application, we request that you indicate in your cover letter your preference between the 12 month and 18 month fixed term position. Apply now!

Desired Soft Skills

  • Coordination
  • Communication
  • Time Management

Culture

  • 🌈 Rainbow Tick
  • 🧠 Neurodiverse
  • 💰 Wage Equality
  • 🏃 Women Leadership
  • 🤝 Unionisation
  • 🌐 INZ Accredited Employer
View All

Job Schedule

  • Shift Work
  • Monday to Friday

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