Job Description

• Have you got prior experience in protein expression and purification?
• Can you quickly learn new techniques and new technologies to operate independently?
• Are you a collaborative and self-motivated professional who builds strong relationships across diverse stakeholders?

Kōrero mō te tūranga - About the role

Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington is currently recruiting a Kairuruku - Research Assistant to join the Ferrier Research Institute team on a 3.5-month fixed-term contract.

Key responsibilities:

• Perform experimental work in molecular biology, protein expression, purification, and biophysical characterisation at laboratory scale.
• Design and execute experiments involving recombinant protein production (e.g. cloning, site-directed mutagenesis, expression optimisation, purification).
• Conduct biophysical and biochemical assays, including but not limited to isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), differential scanning fluorimetry (DSF), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and standard protein characterisation techniques.
• Operate laboratory instrumentation relevant to protein science (e.g. chromatography systems, plate readers, calorimetry platforms), ensuring accurate data collection and quality control.
• Analyse and interpret experimental data, including binding, stability, and thermodynamic measurements, using appropriate software and quantitative methods.
• Apply scientific literature and established protocols to design, troubleshoot, and optimise experimental workflows.
• Exercise independent judgment in selecting and adapting experimental approaches, while working within defined project objectives.
• Maintain clear, accurate, and well-organised laboratory records in accordance with best research practices.
• Communicate results effectively through written reports, presentations, and discussions with supervisors and collaborators.
• Work efficiently to contribute to short-term research goals within the defined project timeline.

Ō pūmanawa - About you

You will be a collaborative and self-motivated professional who builds strong relationships across diverse stakeholders, communicates effectively, and applies sound judgement, innovation, and integrity to deliver high-quality, client-focused outcomes.

Key requirements:

• Minimum MSc or equivalent in Molecular biology, Biochemistry or a related discipline.
• Prior experience in protein expression and purification.
• Ability to quickly learn new techniques and new technologies to operate independently.
• Clear, effective two-way communication with research teams.
• Familiarity with literature searching techniques and data analysing software.
• Ability to organize and document research, analytical data, and products in a traceable manner.
• Ability to work as part of a highly collaborative team.

Click here to see further information, including salary details.

If this link is not available, click 'apply' to view this on the University career's page.

Close date for vacancy: 29 May 2026.

Contact details for vacancy: If you have any questions regarding this role please get in touch with Wanting Jiao (wanting.jiao@vuw.ac.nz).

How to apply: Please ensure you are applying for this role directly on our careers page and not via email. Candidates must submit supporting documents along with their resume, such as a cover letter. Applicants who do not have residency or citizenship and require a visa to work at the University must clearly indicate their visa status in their application and understand that if they do not have a current, relevant visa, they will need to secure this independently.

Mō Te Herenga Waka - About Our University

Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington is renowned for its high-quality research and exceptional teaching. We attract people from around the world. Our university campus spans Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington - the creative, scientific and political centre of Aotearoa New Zealand - and our students thrive on the connections we have made here.

Explore the many benefits of working at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington. Find out where you fit in our strategic direction and learn more about our research expertise