Research Fellow - School of Chemical Sciences - fixed term - 24 months

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University of Auckland invites applications for a Research Fellow in the School of Chemical Sciences to lead elements of the MBIE Waste to Treasure programme, developing a grape marc biorefinery with emphasis on process design, TEA and biomass valorisation. A PhD in Chemical Engineering or related field is essential, with hands-on processing experience, TEA and LCA, and a track record of external collaboration. This full-time, 24-month fixed-term role offers NZD 99,788 to 106,259 per annum. Apply online by 1 April 2026; inquiries to Professor Paul Kilmartin are welcome, but email applications are not accepted. Highlight practical delivery, cross-disciplinary teamwork and industry impact, and note flexibility and equity commitments.

Company Description

Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland

Ko te whare Pūtaiao | The Faculty of Science at the University of Auckland is the leading science faculty in New Zealand and one of the largest in Australasia. It undertakes world-class research across the physical, biological and computational sciences. More than 8,000 students' study in our 10 schools and departments, learning from internationally renowned lecturers. We have excellent library and computing facilities. 

Our staff and students can connect with our flagship groups including Tuākana, Rainbow, Women of Colour, Māori, Pacific, Muslim, and Disabled Staff network and our Waipapa Marae.

Job Description

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

Based in the School of Chemical Sciences, we are seeking a talented and motivated Research Fellow to play a leading role in the development of a grape marc biorefinery, contributing to the MBIE-funded research programme, “Waste to Treasure : Using novel chemistry to valorise residual plant materials.” This nationally significant programme brings together leading researchers and industry collaborators to transform agricultural waste into high-value, sustainable products.

This role would suit a technically strong Chemical Engineer with expertise in process design, techno-economic analysis and biomass valorisation who is excited by applied research with real-world impact.

Ngā Haepapa Matua | Key Responsibilities (not limited too):

• Undertake independent and collaborative research within the MBIE Waste to Treasure programme.
• Develop, model and optimise biochemical, thermochemical and hybrid processing routes
• Deliver high-quality, publishable research outputs and contribute to high-impact peer-reviewed publications.
• Lead and contribute to techno-economic analyses (including CAPEX/OPEX modelling) and support environmental assessments such as Life Cycle Assessment (LCA).
• Support and co-supervise PhD and Masters students, providing mentoring and constructive feedback on research outputs.
• Contribute to programme administration and actively enhance team research quality and performance.
• Engage in professional and community service activities while ensuring compliance with University policies and fostering a collegial, collaborative School environment.

For more information on the role, please view the Position Description 

This is a full-time (40 hrs per week), 24-month fixed-term role

The remuneration is from $99,788 to $106,259 per annum, and will be dependent on skills and experience

He kōrero mōu | About you

We are seeking applicants who have:

Qualifications

• Essential: PhD in Chemical Engineering or a closely related Engineering/Science discipline.

Experience

• Demonstrated research experience in:
  • Biorefinery and biomass valorisation
  • Set-up and operation of processing equipment
  • Techno-economic analysis of commercial industrial processes
• Proven ability to work effectively with external collaborators.

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 ranked among 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

In addition, we also offer career development programmes, discounted car parking, a generous parental leave allowance, childcare, and a number of other discounts on internal and external services. 

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Applications must be submitted online by the closing date of 1st April 2026 to be considered.

If anything needs to be clarified, you can contact Paul Kilmartin (Professor - Chemical Sciences) 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