Kairangahau / R&D Research Officer

E te kaikimi mahi, tēnā koe / Greetings, job-seeker,

The Malaghan Institute of Medical Research is New Zealand’s leading independent biomedical research institute, with a focus on breakthrough discoveries in immunology and immunotherapy. We have around 150 staff committed to finding cures for diseases using the body’s own immune system. 

Our Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell group is dedicated to understanding CAR T-cell signalling and function and using this knowledge to develop targeted cancer therapies for patients. We are seeking a passionate and hard-working Kairangahau / Research Officer to contribute to our mission: ensuring that all New Zealanders have access to the best possible cancer treatments. In this role, you will be working on pre-clinical R&D and process development to adapt and optimise cell culture protocols from the research lab for future use in clinical CAR T-cell production. You will also be involved in basic research and general laboratory management.

This exciting opportunity is designed for a MSc or experienced BSc graduate with an understanding of immunology and experience in human primary cell culture. Our successful candidate will be adaptable, demonstrate scrupulous attention to detail, and will communicate effectively within their friendly and collaborative team.

This is a full time position for an initial fixed term of 12 months.

Tohu Mātauranga / Qualifications

• BSc / BSc.Hons / MSc in Biomedical Science.

Ngā Pūkenga / Experience and Skills

• Minimum 1 year of sound laboratory experience.


• Solid understanding of Immunology.


• Excellent aseptic technique.


• Experience in human primary cell culture.


• Skills in immunological assays: flow cytometry, ELISA, cytotoxicity assays.


• Experience in molecular biology is an advantage.


• Familiarity with the principles of GLP and/or GMP is desirable.

Ngā ahuatanga / Desired traits

• Hard-working, a true passion for research.


• Cooperative and friendly team member.


• Clear communicator, both written and oral.


• Detail-focussed, including careful record keeping.


• Flexibility around hours.

Ngā kawenga / Key Responsibilities

• Human T cell selection, activation, lentiviral transduction and cell expansion.


• Testing reagents and cell culture conditions.


• Conventional and spectral flow cytometry.


• Performing immunological assays.


• Helping to maintain a well-functioning laboratory.


• Attendance at weekly CAR T-cell team research meetings to report progress.


• Accurate record keeping, reporting orally and in writing on research progress.


• Assisting in data analysis and preparation of results for publication and presentation.

Ngā painga / Benefits

• Opportunity to contribute to ground-breaking and life-saving research.


• A supportive team culture.


• Exposure to a unique research environment working with highly driven scientists and support staff.


• Training and development opportunities to support you in your career with us, with potential for career progression.


• Employee Assistance Programme – confidential, professional services which can support and guide you through your personal or work challenges.


• An excellent location, with great offices at Victoria University in Kelburn offering a great choice of cafes and other amenities.


• Base salary from $72,000.00, negotiable depending on experience.

The Malaghan Institute is also an equal opportunity employer, and values diversity alongside being committed to upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Vision Mātauranga. We support Māori health advancement in partnership with Te Urungi Māori, the Institute’s Māori advisory group, we therefore welcome Māori applicants for this role. 

Me Pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply:

If you share our passion of building cures for cancer, and think you’d be a valuable addition to this project, apply now by sending both your Cover Letter and CV. Applications close at 5pm Monday 23 March 2026 for a start date as soon as possible. Interviews may be held immediately should the right candidates apply, so tone inaianei / don’t wait!

Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand.