Research Associate – Analytical Chemist
Biological Chemistry & Bioactives
Lincolin, Christchurch, New Zealand
Vacancy number: 60686
Full-time, 12-month fixed term parental leave cover

Contribute to cutting-edge metabolomics research using LC-MS
Work alongside Māori partners on innovative bioactive and natural product opportunities
Be part of multidisciplinary science delivering real-world impact

What you will be doing | Ngā whāinga matua

You will carry out LC-MS based metabolomic analyses of New Zealand plant crops and growing systems, including sample preparation, instrument operation, and data analysis. In addition, you will support research alongside Māori collaborators focused on the commercialisation of taonga species as crops and sources of bioactive compounds. Working across teams and with external partners, you will contribute to multidisciplinary projects and assist in delivering high-quality scientific outputs, including publications.

What you will bring | Ngā tino pūkenga me ngā wheako

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

A tertiary degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmacy, or a related field with strong practical laboratory experience in analytical chemistry.
Hands-on experience (or strong aptitude) in LC-MS and metabolomics, including sample preparation and laboratory techniques involving solvents and reagents.
An understanding of, and genuine connection to, Mātauranga Māori and Kaupapa Māori, with the ability to work in partnership with Māori collaborators.
You will also bring strong communication skills, the ability to work collaboratively, and proficiency in Microsoft Office tools.
Flexibility to travel within New Zealand.

A copy of the Position Description is available for you to view once you click on the ‘apply’ button.

What you will get | Ngā hua o tēnei tūranga

At Plant & Food Research Group, we offer excellent employee benefits and flexibility, such as;

Four weeks annual leave, additional 7 days’ leave and generous paid parental leave
Excellent benefit choices in retirement savings and wellbeing & health
Focus on health and wellbeing with enhanced sick leave
Ongoing career development opportunities

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.

This position sits under the current Plant & Food Research group of the Bioeconomy Science Institute.

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

We welcome applicants who are excited to join us on this change journey.

Job Details

Crown research institute Plant & Food Research
Reference # 60686
Posted on 29 Jun 2026
Closes on 19 Jul 2026 23:55
Location(s) Christchurch
Expertise Plant Biology, Chemistry
Job level(s) Research associate
Work type(s) Fixed term
More details (document) 60686_PD_ResearchAssociate-AnalyticalChemist_ParentalLeave_June 2026.docx
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