Research Assistant

Help support research management at the University of Waikato over the summer!
• Part time and fixed term until end of February 2027
• Fantastic opportunity to work within a large organisation
• Gain practical experience supporting university research
Ngā kōrero mō te tūranga – About the role
Are you an organised, detail-focused individual looking to gain practical experience in a university research environment? The University of Waikato is seeking enthusiastic Research Management Assistants to join Research and Enterprise and support research funding applications and the administration of research projects.
This is an opportunity to develop valuable professional skills while contributing to the University's research activity. The role may suit undergraduate and postgraduate students, with working arrangements that may be accommodated around study commitments.
As a Research Management Assistant, you will assist with project administration, including setting up projects, invoicing, financial monitoring, archiving and monitoring the timely delivery of contractual requirements. You will also help coordinate internal and external funding applications, supporting applicants with the preparation and formatting of documents and providing progress updates.
You will work alongside researchers and colleagues across the University, helping ensure research projects and funding applications are supported accurately and efficiently.
Salary will be in the range of $60,046 – $72,636 prorated per year, depending on qualifications, skills and experience. This is a part-time or full-time role (approximately 20 to 37.5 hours a week), based on our Hillcrest Campus. For more information on the role, please see the position description. All applications must be submitted through the online portal; emailed applications will not be accepted.
Ko wai koe? – Who are you?
You are a motivated and organised person who takes pride in producing accurate work and providing a high standard of service. You can manage competing tasks, communicate clearly and work collaboratively with people from a range of backgrounds.
To be successful in this role, you will have:
• Be working towards a relevant tertiary qualification.
• Strong computer skills, including experience with spreadsheets, databases and other relevant software.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Sound analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Strong organisational and planning skills, with the ability to manage a variety of tasks simultaneously.
• Good interpersonal skills and the ability to develop effective working relationships.
• Initiative, attention to detail and a professional approach to your work.
A relevant completed tertiary qualification, experience in financial administration or a research environment, and familiarity with budgeting, forecasting or reporting would be advantageous but are not essential. An appreciation of the university environment and New Zealand's research landscape would also be beneficial.
Ko wai mātou? – Who are we?
Research and Enterprise provides operational support for the University's research strategy and central research support services. The team helps researchers identify funding opportunities, prepare research funding applications, manage research contracts and report on research activity.
Working across the University's research support functions, Research and Enterprise contributes to an environment where researchers can develop opportunities, secure funding and deliver research projects.
He aha ngā take me tono mai ai koe? – Why should you apply for this position?
We want you to be part of our success! Our University stands proudly on the world stage as a provider of future-focused, international education and an active player in global research. Our rankings reflect these strengths. Working with us means you’ll enjoy a satisfying work environment with many benefits. This role offers an opportunity to build transferable skills in administration, financial monitoring, project coordination and professional communication while contributing to research at the University of Waikato. It may be particularly appealing to students seeking relevant work experience alongside their studies. The University of Waikato is distinctive for the diversity of its staff and students and encourages applicants with the relevant capabilities from all backgrounds to apply. Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand in accordance with New Zealand immigration regulations.
Ko te Tangata – For the People
The University of Waikato prides itself on the quality of its engagement with the communities that it serves, the provision of a world-class education and the national and international impact of its research. Our policies are guided by the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity for all.
E herea ana te Whare Wānanga ki te kaupapa kia whakaratohia te mea angitū ōrite ki ngā tāngata katoa.
Applications Close Thursday November 5, 2026
Requisition number: 1003992
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