Business Support Coordinator - Dodd Walls Centre

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TE ROHE A AHIKĀROA | DIVISION OF SCIENCES
TE WHAI AO | DODD-WALLS CENTRE FOR PHOTONIC AND QUANTUM TECHNOLOGIES

•    Salary + 6.75% Superannuation + 5 weeks annual leave.
•    Career Development + tertiary study benefit + ongoing professional development opportunities.
•    Be part of a professional and supportive team that facilitates world-class research.

About our team | Mō te tīma

Te Whai Ao — Dodd-Walls Centre, is a New Zealand Centre of Research Excellence (CoRE) specializing in the science of light, spanning fundamental quantum physics to cutting-edge optical technologies. Bringing together students and researchers from universities across Aotearoa, the Centre focuses on quantum optics, photonics, biophotonics and precision atomic physics. The Centre engages in educational outreach and commercialisation activities.

The role | Te mahi

Due to an internal move, we are seeking a new Business Support Co-ordinator to play a pivotal role in supporting the operational success of Te Whai Ao – Dodd Walls Centre.  Working closely with the Programme Manager, you will provide high-quality business and administrative support.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced administrator or coordinator who enjoys a varied workload, building relationships and contributing to the success of a nationally significant research centre.

Key responsibilities include:
•    Providing administrative and operational support to the Programme Manager.
•    Compiling statistics, conducting data analysis, and drafting policies and reports to support operational and annual reporting requirements. 
•    Servicing committees, and overseeing financial transactions, reconciliations, and funding awards. 
•    Supporting communications activities, including newsletters and website updates.
•    Planning and coordinating logistics, including travel arrangements for major events, notably the annual symposium.

Your skills and experience | Kā pūkeka me kā wheako

You will have a relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent administrative experience, demonstrating exceptional attention to detail and a strong work ethic. Reliability and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a small team are essential.   You will be highly organised, able to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Other key skills include:
•    Exceptional communication skills and ability to build relationships with people at all levels.
•    Ability to interpret data and assist with reporting and policy writing.
•    A calm, adaptable, and flexible approach, with a commitment to continuous improvement.
•    Expertise in Microsoft Office Suite, with ability to adapt and navigate new systems.
•    Experience in event organisation.
•    Commitment to working in a culturally safe and respectful manner, with an understanding and appreciation of Te Ao Māori, Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles, and Pasifika values.

Prior experience working within a tertiary, research or a research-focused environment would be an advantage.

Further details | Pūroko

This is a full-time (37.5 hours), permanent position, located in Ōtepoti, Dunedin.

The appointments range for this role is $69,931 to $74,609. Top of the range is $80,285, per annum.

The University of Otago is a workplace that values and utilises diverse and inclusive thinking, people, and behaviours. This means that we honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi and that the contributions of staff with diverse backgrounds, experiences, skills, and perspectives are valued and respected.

For further information, or to discuss the role in confidence – please contact Yashoda Lodhia, Programme Manager, via the contact details below.

Application | Tono

To submit your application (including CV and cover letter), please click the apply button. Applications quoting reference number 2601094 will close on Sunday, 13 September 2026.

Additional Information

Contact: Yashoda Lodhia

Position details: Job Description

Further Information: Department Website

Create an email with a link to this vacancy: Create email

Location: About Dunedin