Job Description

Location: Ruakura, New Zealand

Fixed Term – 12 weeks

Hours: 40

Summer Student Intern – Supporting Māori Land Use Change Through Social Science Research

Grow your research skills in a world-class science environment

Join the Indigenous Research Team in Ruakura and contribute to research that supports Māori agribusiness, enterprise, and communities. This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in social science and kaupapa Māori research while working alongside researchers and Māori partners on projects that support land use transitions and positive outcomes for whānau, hapū, and iwi.

What you will be doing | Ngā whāinga matua

• Co-design and undertake a summer research project aligned with your interests, skills, and Flagship 2 priorities.
• Support social science research activities, including literature reviews, qualitative research, interviews, and thematic analysis.
• Assist with preparation for hui, kōrero, and engagement activities with Māori partners and communities.
• Prepare summaries, presentations, and other outputs to share project findings and insights.
• Learn from experienced researchers in a collaborative scientific environment.

What you will bring | Ngā tino pūkenga me ngā wheako

To be successful in this role, the minimum qualifications required are:

• Currently studying towards a tertiary qualification in social sciences, Māori studies, environmental studies, geography, public policy, agribusiness, or a related discipline.
• An interest in kaupapa Māori research, Māori agribusiness, land use change, community development, or partner-led research approaches.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to gather, analyse, and present information clearly.
• A collaborative and culturally aware approach, with a willingness to travel to BSI sites and Māori partner locations. A full driver's licence is required.

Why join us?

This internship provides an opportunity to contribute to meaningful research that supports Māori aspirations and sustainable land use transitions. You'll gain practical experience in social science and kaupapa Māori research, develop valuable research and engagement skills, and work alongside experienced researchers contributing to projects that create real-world impact for Māori communities.

A copy of the Position Description is available for you to view here.

What you will get | Ngā hua o tēnei tūranga

• Exposure to a professional research environment.
• Practical experience with social science research methods, kaupapa Māori research approaches, stakeholder engagement, and qualitative data analysis.
• Mentoring and support from experienced scientists.
• Opportunities to strengthen your scientific communication and data analysis skills.
• Valuable experience to support future study and career opportunities in science.

About us | Ko wai mātou

We've built something new. AgResearch, Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research, Plant & Food Research and Scion have come together to form the Bioeconomy Science Institute. We are more than 2200 people working to support the growth and resilience of the bioeconomy in New Zealand and beyond.

Together, our world-class science can do more to advance innovation in agriculture, horticulture, forestry, aquaculture, biotechnology and manufacturing; protect and enhance ecosystems from biosecurity threats and climate risks; and develop new bio-based technologies and products.

For further details about the Bioeconomy Science Institute can be found on our website, watch this Bioeconomy Science Institute short clip.

Ready to Apply? | Kua rite koe ki te tono?

If you're enthusiastic about science and keen to apply your studies in a research setting, we'd love to hear from you. Bring your curiosity, motivation, and willingness to learn, and join us for an exciting summer research experience.