Lecturer in Crime Science

This permanent Lecturer role offers the opportunity to develop a high-impact research programme focused on reducing crime and enhancing community safety in Aotearoa New Zealand.

• Research-intensive, globally connected university
• Shape policy and practice in crime prevention
• Strong partnership with Māori and community focus

Ngā kōrero mō te tūranga – About the role 

We are seeking an emerging scholar to join Te Puna Haumaru, our Centre for Security and Crime Science, based in Hamilton. This permanent Lecturer role offers the opportunity to develop a high-impact research programme focused on reducing crime and enhancing community safety in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Areas of interest include (but are not limited to) cybercrime, violent extremism, organised crime, environmental crime, and crime related to natural hazards and emerging or future security threats. Applicants with expertise in strategic foresight, futures studies, horizon scanning, scenario development or other futures methodologies are particularly encouraged to apply.

You will contribute to high-quality, research-led teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, supervise Honours, Masters and Doctoral students, and build collaborative partnerships with academic, community and industry stakeholders.

You will play a key role in strengthening the Centre’s national and international reputation through publications, research funding, and engagement with policy and practice, including research that helps anticipate and prepare for emerging crime and security challenges.

Salary will be in the range of $92,603 to $110,407 per year pro rata, based on skills, knowledge and experience. This is a full-time role (37.5 hours per week), based at our Hamilton campus.

For more information on the role please see the position description. All applications must be submitted through the online portal; emailed applications will not be accepted.

Ko wai koe? – Who are you?

You will hold a PhD (or be near completion) in a relevant discipline such as criminology, psychology, sociology, public health, computer science, or a related field. You will demonstrate expertise aligned to crime reduction and community safety, alongside a developing record of high-quality research publications. Expertise in futures methodologies (e.g., horizon scanning, scenario planning, Delphi methods or other approaches to understanding emerging risks) would be an advantage.

You will have experience in undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, the ability to supervise research students, and a commitment to innovative, research-informed teaching. A strong commitment to collaboration, community engagement and the University’s partnership with Māori under Te Tiriti o Waitangi is essential.

Ko wai mātou? – Who are we? 

Te Puna Haumaru is dedicated to producing high-quality empirical research that tangibly reduces crime and harm. We provide a creative and supportive environment for learning, serve the needs of Māori communities, and prepare graduates for careers in crime prevention and related professions.

We want you to be part of our success!  Our University stands proudly on the world stage as a provider of future-focused, international education and an active player in global research. Our rankings reflect these strengths. Working with us means you’ll enjoy a satisfying work environment with many benefits.

The University of Waikato is distinctive for the diversity of its staff and students and encourages applicants with the relevant capabilities from all backgrounds to apply. Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in NZ in accordance with the NZ Immigration regulations which can be found here. 

 Ko te Tangata – For the People 

The University of Waikato prides itself on the quality of its engagement with the communities that it serves, the provision of a world-class education and the national and international impact of its research. Our policies are guided by the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity for all.

E herea ana te Whare Wānanga ki te kaupapa kia whakaratohia te mea angitū ōrite ki ngā tāngata katoa.

Applications Close on Tuesday August 18, 2026 at 9:00an NZT

Requisition number: 1003467

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