Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team tackling Red Needle Cast disease in New Zealand's forestry sector.
- Company: Be part of the University of Canterbury, a leader in accessible education and community engagement.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working arrangements, generous leave, and access to campus facilities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on New Zealand's environment while collaborating with top researchers.
- Qualifications: PhD in Biology or related field; Master's candidates considered; expertise in molecular plant pathology preferred.
- Other info: Applications close on 30 June 2025; remote queries welcome via email.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 £ per year.
We invite applications for a Research Associate/Postdoctoral Fellow to join a collaborative research initiative aimed at mitigating the impact of Red Needle Cast (RNC) disease on New Zealand's forestry industry. RNC, caused by the oomycete Phytophthora pluvialis, poses a significant threat to Pinus radiata, a cornerstone species in New Zealand's NZ$6 billion per annum forestry sector.
Traditional reliance on copper-based fungicides is environmentally unsustainable, necessitating innovative, plant-focused resistance strategies. This project will focus on studying radiata pine and P. pluvialis, with emphasis on applying RNA silencing for pathogen control and optimising high-throughput phenotyping pipelines for P. radiata.
This role is part of a national, integrated effort involving the University of Canterbury (UC), Massey University, AgResearch, and the Radiata Pine Breeding Company (RPBC). The successful candidate will be based at UC within the Meisrimler group and co-mentored by Dr. Claudia Meisrimler (UC) and A/Prof Dr. Carl Mesarich (Massey University).
You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team from the University of Canterbury, Massey University, AgResearch, and RPBC. This partnership offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a significant national effort addressing a critical issue in New Zealand's forestry sector.
You will have completed a PhD in Biology or a related discipline / or Master’s degree if applying for Research Associate (as applicants nearing completion of their PhD in the stated subject area will also be considered).
You will ideally have the following:
- Demonstrated expertise in molecular plant pathology, with strong research leadership and design capabilities.
- Experience working with Phytophthora pluvialis and/or its host Pinus radiata.
- Managing the collection, cultivation, and spore production of Phytophthora.
- Clear understanding of RNA silencing application for pathogen treatments.
- Proven publication record and experience in presenting research to both scientific and non-scientific audiences.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain complex concepts clearly across disciplines.
- A proactive approach to collaborative research and student mentorship.
- Commitment to professional integrity, high-quality outputs, and constructive performance development.
- Demonstrated understanding of biculturalism in Aotearoa New Zealand.
With nearly 100 staff and several hundred students, UC's School of Biological Sciences is a large and dynamic school offering a diverse range of courses across undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
The University of Canterbury is committed to accessible higher education, service to community and the encouragement of talent without barriers of distance, wealth, class, gender or ethnicity. The University explicitly aims to produce graduates and support staff who are engaged with their communities, empowered to act for good and determined to make a difference in the world.
What we offer:
- Flexible working arrangements
- Supportive working environment
- Generous annual leave provisions and competitive salary
- A unique working environment in a beautiful campus with access to UC facilities such as the recreation centre and Staff club at discounted rates plus onsite cafés and eateries, and more
The closing date for this position is: 30 June 2025 (midnight, NZ time). Applications will be reviewed after the close date. Applications for this position must be submitted on our careers website and should include the following:
- A cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.
- A curriculum vitae, including a list of relevant research publications.
If you have any further questions concerning the position and/or the project, please send an email to Dr. Claudia Meisrimler at claudia.meisrimler@canterbury.ac.nz. We do not accept applications by email, however we are happy to answer your queries in relation to the application process, please forward these to WorkatUC@canterbury.ac.nz.
Please Note: Candidates who are working towards or nearing completion of a relevant Doctoral qualification will also be considered. Upon appointment, if the Doctoral qualification is yet to be awarded, the title of Research Associate will be applied and the salary will reflect the Research Associate salary scale.
Appointable salary for a Post Doctoral Fellow will be $62,845 p.a. - $94,248 p.a. Appointable salary for a Research Associate will be $62,845 p.a. - $73,306 p.a.
For overseas applicants, please visit Immigration New Zealand website to review the latest health and visa requirements for visiting and working in New Zealand.
Research Associate/Postdoctoral Fellow employer: New Zealand Government
Contact Detail:
New Zealand Government Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate/Postdoctoral Fellow
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific research interests of Dr. Claudia Meisrimler and A/Prof Dr. Carl Mesarich. Understanding their work will not only help you tailor your discussions during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the project.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former members of the Meisrimler group or related teams at UC and Massey University. Engaging with them can provide insights into the team dynamics and expectations, which can be invaluable during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous research experiences in detail, especially those related to molecular plant pathology and RNA silencing. Be ready to explain how your skills can contribute to the innovative strategies needed for tackling Red Needle Cast disease.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your understanding of biculturalism in Aotearoa New Zealand during your interactions. This is a key aspect of the role, and demonstrating your commitment to this principle can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate/Postdoctoral Fellow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your cover letter to highlight your specific skills and experiences that align with the role of Research Associate/Postdoctoral Fellow. Mention your expertise in molecular plant pathology and any relevant research on Phytophthora pluvialis or Pinus radiata.
Highlight Relevant Publications: In your CV, include a detailed list of your research publications. Emphasise those that are most relevant to the position, particularly any work related to RNA silencing or pathogen control, as this will demonstrate your capability in the field.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since excellent communication skills are essential for this role, provide examples in your application of how you have effectively communicated complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences, both scientific and non-scientific.
Demonstrate Collaborative Experience: In your application, illustrate your proactive approach to collaborative research. Mention any previous experiences working in multidisciplinary teams, especially if they involved mentorship or student engagement, as this aligns with the expectations of the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at New Zealand Government
✨Showcase Your Research Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous research projects in detail, especially those related to molecular plant pathology or Phytophthora pluvialis. Highlight any innovative approaches you've taken and the outcomes of your work.
✨Demonstrate Collaborative Skills
Since this role involves working with a multidisciplinary team, emphasise your experience in collaborative research. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with others to achieve common goals.
✨Communicate Complex Concepts Clearly
Practice explaining your research in simple terms, as you may need to present to both scientific and non-scientific audiences. This will showcase your excellent communication skills, which are crucial for this position.
✨Understand Biculturalism in Aotearoa
Familiarise yourself with the principles of biculturalism in New Zealand. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to an inclusive environment that respects and integrates Māori perspectives in your research.
