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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. Our staff and students can connect with our flagship TuākanaWomen in ScienceParenting and Rainbow networks, and our Waipapa Marae.

At Te Kura Mātauranga Koiora, the School of Biological Sciences, we conduct state-of-the-art research and teaching across all scales of the living world, from molecules to ecosystems. 

Join New Zealand’s leading Science Faculty and contribute to globally significant research in cancer immunotherapy.

The Faculty of Science is seeking a motivated and skilled Research Fellow to join a project investigating the use of gene editing for extreme fragile skin conditions, including epidermolysis bullosa. This exciting position is based within the School of Biological Sciences, working alongside a dedicated research team to develop effective CRISPR based therapies.

Key Responsibilities (not limited to):

  • Conduct independent and collaborative laboratory research on gene editing in primary human skin cells and 3D skin sheet equivalents.
  • Undertake in vitro studies using primary human skin cells, employing CRISPR, next-gen sequencing, ddPCR, flow cytometry, immunocytochemistry, and related techniques.
  • Write and publish peer-reviewed scientific articles.
  • Present findings at team meetings, stakeholder events, and international conferences.
  • Maintain detailed lab records and contribute to reporting, grant writing, and stakeholder engagement.

**Role commencement date – February 2026**

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

This is a part-time (36 hrs per week) fixed-term role

The remuneration is $97,831 per annum, dependent on skills and experience, and will be pro-rated

You will be a driven postdoctoral researcher with:

  • A PhD in Molecular Biology, Medical Science, or a related field.
  • Strong laboratory research experience, ideally with 1+ years of postdoctoral work.
  • Proficiency in molecular biology, tissue culture, in vitro skin engineering, and bioinformatic analysis of next-gen sequencing data (Nanopore/Illumina).
  • Experience in both in vitro and in vivo research environments.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate and Strong communication, organisational, and problem-solving skills
  • Sensitivity to and respect for diverse cultures.

The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university and maintains significant computational, laboratory and analytic facilities. Auckland itself is frequently rated as one of 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.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted online, by the closing date of 7th September 2025 to be considered. We may close this advert early if we have a large number of applications. Please include your cover letter and your CV highlighting how you can meet the skills and experiences detailed above.

Please reach out to Hilary Sheppard (Senior Lecturer -Biological Sciences) via h.sheppard@auckland.ac.nz for a confidential conversation. Please note we are happy to answer your questions, but we do not accept applications by email.

**We reserve the right to close applications early if a suitable candidate is found**

Immigration & relocation support

To make the immigration process as easy as possible for our applicants, the University has an in-house immigration manager who is licensed by the New Zealand Immigration Advisers Authority to provide advice and support to staff as they navigate the visa and immigration process together.

Immigration and Relocation Support

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