Research Fellow

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University of Auckland is seeking a Research Fellow to join a collaboration advancing a bacterial mRNA vaccine into clinical development. This full-time fixed-term 24-month role is on site in Auckland and involves designing or troubleshooting immunological assays, creating and analysing multi-parametric flow cytometry data, integrating complex datasets, maintaining clear documentation, and presenting findings to the team and RNA Platform collaborators. You should hold a PhD in biomedical science, have proven experience with high-dimensional data and immunology, and be proficient in R and or OMIQ. The ideal candidate combines curiosity with teamwork, strong communication, and a commitment to equity. Apply online by 7 March 2026 with cover letter and CV; for confidential questions contact Fiona Radcliff.

Company Description

Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland

The University of Auckland is Aotearoa New Zealand’s leading university. With more than 6,000 academic and professional staff supporting over 46,000 students, we are proud to be one of the country’s largest and most diverse employers. Our people are driven by curiosity, purpose, and a shared commitment to creating positive impact for our communities.

Job Description

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Research Fellow to join a dedicated, collaborative research team working to advance a novel bacterial mRNA vaccine into clinical development. This is a New Zealand RNA Platform Flagship project that brings together experts from across the motu and internationally.

You will contribute directly to the development of immunological assays and analysis of high‑dimensional datasets for vaccine assessment, supporting critical scientific insights and translational progress.

• Design or troubleshoot immunological assays in collaboration with team members
• Create and analyse multi‑parametric flow cytometry datasets
• Collate, integrate and analyse multi‑dimensional datasets
• Maintain accurate, transferrable documentation
• Present findings to the immediate group and to wider RNA Platform collaborators

This is a fulltime, fixed term position (24 months).

The salary range for this role is $99,788 - $119,204 depending on skills and experience.

For more detailed information, please review the position description.

He kōrero mōu | About you

You will be an excellent communicator who thrives in a team‑based research environment. You bring strong analytical capability, curiosity, and a collaborative mindset. You are confident working with complex datasets and enjoy contributing to research with meaningful impact. Your working style reflects professionalism, adaptability, and a commitment to equity.

You will bring:

• PhD in biomedical science
• Proven experience working with and interpreting high‑dimensional datasets
• Strong understanding of immunology
• Proficiency with analytical software such as R and/or OMIQ
• Ability to collate, integrate, and analyse multiple datasets
• Enthusiasm for vaccine research and emerging technologies

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university and maintains significant computational, laboratory and analytic facilities. Auckland itself is frequently rated as one of the world’s most liveable cities. The University is committed to providing an excellent working environment through:

• Flexible employment practices (including working from home, flexible hours)
• Up to 6.75% company superannuation scheme
• A competitive salary with five weeks’ annual leave

For more information, please visit Staff Benefits.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Applications must be submitted online by the closing date of 7 March 2026 to be considered. Please include your cover letter and CV highlighting how you meet the skills and experiences detailed above.

For a confidential conversation, please contact Fiona Radcliff via [email protected]. Please note we are happy to answer your questions, but we do not accept applications by email.

Additional Information

Equity

The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment.  For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz