Lecturer/Senior Lecturer - Biochemistry

University of Otago; New Zealand; On-site; NZD 97,000 - 149,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading New Zealand university is seeking a Lecturer or Senior Lecturer in biochemistry and molecular genetics. The role involves teaching undergraduates and postgraduates, conducting research with external funding, and collaboration within the department. Applicants should hold a PhD and demonstrate excellence in research and teaching. This full-time, permanent position is based in Dunedin, offering competitive salary scales between $97,377 to $148,024, depending on the level.

Benefits

Collegial work environment

Excellent work-life balance

Beautiful campus in Dunedin

Qualifications

• Demonstrated potential to attain excellence in scholarly research and publication.
• Ability to engage students through dynamic, research-based teaching.
• Willingness to participate in the academic life of the department.

Responsibilities

• Teach science undergraduates and postgraduates in biochemistry and genetics.
• Conduct research attracting external funding.
• Develop collaborative working relationships with colleagues.

Skills

Research excellence in molecular biosciences

Dynamic teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate level

Collaborative working relationships

Commitment to Māori and Pacific Strategic Framework

Education

PhD in a relevant field

Job description

Overview

The Department of Biochemistry at Ōtakou Whakaihu Waka, University of Otago is a teaching and research department located in Dunedin, New Zealand. The department primarily teaches science undergraduates and postgraduates in biochemistry and genetics, and also teaches into health science professional programmes. Research in the department attracts external funding for both applied and fundamental investigations in biomedical and non-biomedical disciplines. The department aims to deliver world-class research training for postgraduate students, with external research funding essential.

The Position | Te Mahi

The department is seeking to appoint a Lecturer or Senior Lecturer. This is an opportunity for an outstanding candidate who has demonstrated research excellence in the molecular biosciences. Applications are invited in all areas of biochemistry, molecular genetics, and bioinformatics. Applications are particularly welcome from those with research programmes in plant biochemistry and genetics, protein biochemistry and biotechnology with high potential for translation. The department encourages applicants with research experience in areas of New Zealand’s national priorities, including researchers who undertake research relevant to kaupapa Māori and mātauranga Māori perspectives.

Your Skills and Experience | Kā Pūkeka me Kā Wheako

• A PhD in a relevant field.
• Demonstrated potential to attain excellence in scholarly research and publication, with evidence of high-quality journal publications.
• Ability to engage students through dynamic, research-based high-quality teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate level.
• A willingness to participate in the academic life of the Department and in a range of service roles in the Faculty/Division/University and professional life.
• A strong commitment to developing collaborative working relationships with colleagues.
• Ability and willingness to develop a firm commitment to the university’s Māori Strategic Framework and Pacific Strategic Framework.

Further Details | Pūroko

The University of Otago is New Zealand’s oldest university and is known for collegiality and excellent work-life balance. The Dunedin campus is regarded as one of the most beautiful in the world. Dunedin offers affordable living, good schools, and a range of activities from art to outdoor pursuits. The University aspires to be a Te Tiriti led university with a strong partnership with mana whenua as described in Te Kaha Uia Te Kaha, the Mana-to-Mana Agreement. We are committed to working with iwi and Māori organisations as matauranga Māori becomes part of teaching and research across the institution.

This is a full-time (1 FTE), permanent position based in Ōtepoti, Dunedin.

Salary scales:

• Lecturer: $97,377 to $114,943
• Senior Lecturer: $120,494 to $148,024

Application Details | Tono

Candidates are requested to submit the following:

• Curriculum vitae
• Detailed cover letter addressing suitability for the position
• Names and contact details of at least three academic referees

To submit your application please click the apply button below. Applications quoting reference number 2501271 will close on Sunday, 12 October 2025.

Contact

Professor Peter Dearden

Related Information

• Information Statement
• Guidelines for Academic Positions
• Department Website