Science Lead (Research Fellow) - Public Health Communication Centre
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UNIVERSITY OF OTAGO, WELLINGTON | OTAKOU WHAKAIHU WAKA, PONEKE
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH, WELLINGTON | TE TARI HAUORA TUMATANUI
Play a key role in shaping national conversations on public health
Work with leading researchers and science communicators in a collaborative, high-impact team.
Flexible 0.5-1.0 FTE appointment with the opportunity to contribute to research that improves health, wellbeing and equity across Aotearoa New Zealand.
About our team/Mo te tima
Hosted by the University of Otago, Wellington, the Public Health Communication Centre communicates public health research evidence to improve the health, wellbeing and equity of people in Aotearoa New Zealand while supporting the health of our environment.
Our work reaches policymakers, health professionals, researchers, journalists and the wider public through our Public Health Expert Briefings, media engagement and other communication activities.
The role/Te mahi
The Public Health Communication Centre (PHCC) is seeking an experienced researcher and science communicator to join our small and dynamic team as a Science Lead.
As the PHCC expands its work on the commercial determinants of health, you will play a leading role in researching and communicating how commercial interests and undue influence can shape public health policy, regulation and public discourse in ways that may undermine health, equity and evidence-based decision-making.
Working closely with the PHCC Directors, Science Lead, Communications Lead and editorial team, you will contribute to the production of our widely read Public Health Expert Briefings and support a range of research communication activities.
Key responsibilities include:
Researching the commercial determinants of health, including analysing submissions to government, official records, policy processes and media discourse.
Working with researchers and sector experts to develop methods for investigating commercial influence on public health in the New Zealand context.
Commissioning, editing and supporting Public Health Expert Briefing authors from across the public health research community.
Monitoring emerging public health research and policy developments.
Building relationships with researchers, government agencies, media and other stakeholders.
Interpreting engagement and impact data to strengthen communication and editorial strategy.
Preparing or contributing to submissions on government legislation and consultation documents.
Supporting media engagement, including drafting media releases and working with journalists.
Delivering webinars, workshops and other public engagement activities.
The role offers intellectually stimulating work with genuine public benefit and the opportunity to contribute to innovative research and communication on some of New Zealand's most important public health and environmental challenges.
Your skills and experience/Ka pukeka me ka wheako
You are an excellent researcher and communicator who enjoys working across disciplines and translating complex evidence into clear, compelling communication.
To be successful in this role, you will have:
A postgraduate qualification in public health, public policy, law, economics, environmental science or a related discipline.
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with experience in research publication, science writing or other evidence-based communication.
Strong analytical and investigative skills.
The ability to manage multiple projects and work collaboratively across diverse teams.
An interest in engaging with the media and contributing to informed public discussion.
A demonstrated commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, culturally safe practice and advancing equity in public health.
The following would be advantageous:
Experience in public health or environmental research.
Quantitative analysis and/or data visualisation skills.
Science communication experience.
Knowledge of the New Zealand health and media environment.
Knowledge of matauranga Maori in relation to public health is particularly welcomed, and we strongly encourage applications from candidates who bring this expertise.
If you are passionate about using research to improve public health and want your work to make a real difference, we are keen to hear from you.
Further details/Puroko
This is a fixed-term position for 12 months, available between 0.5 and 1.0 FTE. Please indicate your preferred FTE in your cover letter. The role is based at the University of Otago, Wellington.
The appointment range for this role is $97,377 to $114,943 per annum (pro rata).
You must have the right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this role.
The University of Otago is a workplace that values and utilises diverse and inclusive thinking, people and behaviours. This means that the contributions of staff with diverse backgrounds, experiences, skills and perspectives are valued and respected.
Specific enquiries may be directed to Fiona Taylor, Public Health Communication Centre Manager, via the contact details below.
Application/Tono
To submit your application (including CV and cover letter) please click the apply button.
Applications quoting reference number 2601120 will close on Sunday, 16 August 2026.
Additional Information
Contact: Fiona Taylor
Position details: Information Statement | Job Description
Guidelines for Academic Positions: Guidelines
Further Information: Public Health Communication Centre
Further Information: Public Health Expert Briefings
Create an email with a link to this vacancy: Create email
Location: About Wellington
