Research Assistant

Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland

Te Pūtahi Mātauranga (The Faculty of Arts and Education), established in 2025, is Aotearoa's leading centre for humanities, social sciences, Indigenous studies, education and creative arts. The Faculty aims to be an outstanding centre of research and education, with a transformative impact on local communities, enhancing the global standing and reputation of the University and Aotearoa. We will focus on the human questions, propose fundamental values and new ways of thinking and act for a sustainable world of collective wellbeing.

Te Whiwhinga Mahi | The opportunity

Te Tahatū o te Rangi – MAI Promising Futures research project is looking for a fixed-term, part-time Research Assistant to join our kaupapa Māori study exploring the journeys of Māori PhD graduates involved in Te Kupenga o MAI. This role will mostly be remote, and you will work closely with the Project Manager primarily and at times with the wider research team to support the design, coordination, and delivery of the research. 

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to kaupapa Māori research at a national level, supporting the smooth running of the project across its research, communications, events, and operational activities.

This is a part-time (0.3 FTE / 12 hours per week), fixed-term position for 12 months.

The remuneration range for this role is $62,400 – $77,800 per annum (pro rata for part-time hours), depending on skills and experience.

For more detailed information about the role, refer to the Position Description



 

Ngā āhuatanga kei a koe | What we’re looking for

We’re seeking someone who can bring initiative, strong research and organisational skills, and a collaborative approach to supporting kaupapa Māori research. Ideally, you will have:

• A postgraduate research qualification (Master’s degree preferred).
• Experience in qualitative research, including literature reviews and data analysis.
• Familiarity with ethics processes and research data management.
• Excellent communication skills, including writing for academic and general audiences.
• Confidence with scheduling, project coordination, and digital tools (e.g. Zoom, Outlook, reference managers).
• Some knowledge of te reo Māori and/or kaupapa Māori research approaches (an advantage, but not essential).
• A thoughtful, values-led working style and commitment to equity and cultural safety.

Key responsibilities include:

• Coordinating day-to-day project tasks including ethics applications, documentation, scheduling and communications.
• Supporting research activities such as literature reviews, scoping reviews, and data collection
• Assisting with the preparation of research outputs including academic publications, reports, and website content.
• Drafting newsletters and updating project communications channels in collaboration with the Project Manager.
• Supporting the organisation of travel, hui, workshops, retreats, the advisory board meetings and other project-related events.
• Contributing to administrative tasks including budgeting, reimbursements and supplier coordination, minute taking for meetings.
• Maintaining detailed records and ensuring the project stays on track and on budget.

Mō te tīma | About the project team

The MAI Promising Futures project is led by Professor Waimarie Nikora (Principal Investigator) and includes Dr Tania Cliffe-Tautari (Associate Investigator and Project Manager), Associate Professor Hinekura Smith, Associate Professor Deb Heke, and Dr Tim Newman-West. Together, the team brings deep expertise in Māori and Indigenous research, and a strong commitment to ethical and impactful scholarship.

 

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Applications must be submitted online, by the closing date of 24th June 2025 to be considered. Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience.

Please direct enquiries to Dr Tania Cliffe-Tautari via [email protected]. Please note that we are happy to answer your questions, but we do not accept applications by email.

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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

The University is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment where everyone can thrive. For further information see Te Ara Tautika | the Equity Policy and visit www.equity.auckland.ac.nz