Research Coordinator

E te kaikimi mahi, tena koe

TheMalaghan Institute of Medical Researchis New Zealand's leading independent biomedical research institute, with a focus on breakthrough discoveries in immunology and immunotherapy. We have around 160 staff committed to finding cures for diseases using the body's own immune system.

About the role

The Research Coordinator supports the effective functioning of the Science Committee and broader science strategy activities at the Malaghan Institute. This role provides essential administrative and operational support, enabling the Chief Scientist and Principal Investigators to focus on research leadership. The coordinator takes ownership of key recurring processes, manages the science seminar programme, and plays a central role in embedding new ways of working across the Institute.

This is a permanent part time position offering 20 hours a week. The role will operate from our central Wellington facility, with some flexibility for remote / hybrid working around commitments and meetings that will be onsite.

Tohu Matauranga / Qualifications

• A BSc in Biomedical Science, immunology or a relevant science field is beneficial

Nga Pukenga | Experience and Skills

• Experience in research activities and processes.
• Experience working within a Research Office environment
• Experience in organising and facilitating research-related events and workshops
• Experience with New Zealand's science funding landscape
• Science background a plus but not essential

Nga ahuatanga | Desired traits

• A proactive mentality with a strong sense of initiative
• Well-organised, professional with strong attention to detail
• Strong communication skills
• A collaborative mindset

Nga kawenga | Key Responsibilities

Science Committee Support

• Provide administrative support to the Science Committee, including preparing agendas, taking minutes, tracking action items, and coordinating meeting logistics.
• Lead on operational tasks not delegated to the Chief Scientist or Principal Investigators
• Gather, collate, and synthesise information and data relevant to Science Committee activities, present relevant information at science committee meetings.
• Liaise with Science Committee members to ensure timely follow-up on decisions and deliverables.

Internal Grant Review & Funding Opportunities

• Take ownership of the Institute's internal grant review process - leading its coordination and administration with input from the Science Committee, while ensuring the process runs smoothly and on schedule.
• Proactively identify and scope new grant opportunities relevant to Malaghan's research priorities, and communicate these in a timely and organised way.
• Together with the senior research office Administrator, manage submission timelines, reviewer allocations, and collation of feedback, ensuring a consistent and well-governed process.

Friday Seminar Series

• Plan, schedule, and manage the Friday science seminar series, including inviting speakers, coordinating logistics, and communicating with attendees.
• Maintain a forward schedule of seminars and ensure a diverse and engaging programme.
• Collate feedback and continuously improve the seminar experience for staff and guests.

SSIF Implementation

• Support the implementation of the SSIF requirements.
• Maintain accurate and consistent records to meet SSIF reporting obligations, ensuring documentation aligns with what is required for reporting.
• Provide regular reporting updates and flag any risks or issues to the Chief Scientist.

Science Events & Engagement

• Arrange and coordinate chalk talks, ensuring speakers are confirmed, rooms are booked, and invitations are circulated in a timely manner.
• Organise Institute away day(s), including logistics, scheduling, and any supporting materials.
• Coordinate science theme workshops and hui, working with relevant PIs and the Science Committee to design and deliver engaging sessions.
• Maintain an events calendar and ensure strong communication with participants ahead of all science events.

Nga painga | Benefits

• Opportunity to contribute to ground-breaking and life-saving research.
• A supportive team culture.
• Exposure to a unique research environment working with highly driven scientists and support staff.
• Training and development opportunities to support you in your career with us, with potential for career progression.
• Employee Assistance Programme- confidential, professional services which can support and guide you through your personal or work challenges.
• An excellent location, with great offices at Victoria University in Kelburn offering a great choice of cafes and other amenities.
• Base salary from$70,000per annum pro rata,negotiable depending on experience.

The Malaghan Institute is alsoan equal opportunity employer, and values diversity alongside being committed toupholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi andVision Matauranga.Wesupport Maori health advancement in partnership with Te Urungi Maori, the Institute's Maori advisory group, wethereforewelcome Maori applicants for this role.

Me Pehea te tuku tono | How to apply:

If you share our passion for research, and think you'd be a valuable addition to this project, apply now by sending both yourCover Letter and CV. Applications closeat 5:00pm on Friday 14 Augustfor a start date as soon as possible.

All CVs and cover letters are reviewed by humans in the Malaghan recruitment team. If you've taken the time to write an engaging letter directly addressing the role and the work we do, the least we can do is read it. Our promise to you is that your applications are not screened by AI. In return, we respectfully ask that no AI cover letters be submitted.

Interviews may be held immediately should the right candidates apply, so don't wait, tone inaianei!

Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand.