UNIVERSITY OF OTAGO, WELLINGTON | OTAKOU WHAKAIHU WAKA, PONEKE
University of Otago/Otakou Whakaihu Waka
The University of Otago | Otakou Whakaihu Waka has been a renowned place of learning and discovery for more than 150 years. We strive to become an even more successful, globally influential university, committed to upholding the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi as we advance outstanding research and research-informed teaching to enable transformative learning and student experiences. Our Vision/Ko te Aronga is for our people and knowledge to transform lives, connect communities and nurture the environment in Aotearoa, the Pacific, and the world.
The University of Otago's capital city campus offers a wide range of postgraduate qualifications in health sciences, as well as excellent undergraduate study opportunities in radiation therapy, medicine, and final year physiotherapy. We are proud to be Wellington's medical school, and of the role we play in making a difference to the health of New Zealanders and the world. Our community consists of top-quality academics and postgraduate students from New Zealand and overseas, with a strong record of research with real world impact.
The role/Te mahi
We are seeking a professional with a strong background in Pacific Health to lead and enrich teaching and research in this critical area. Based at our Wellington campus, this is a unique opportunity to shape culturally responsive education and deliver impactful research that supports Pacific communities across Aotearoa and the wider Pacific region.
The successful candidate will be appointed to one of the following positions depending on their academic achievement, skills, and experience:
- Lecturer
- Senior Lecturer
- Teaching Fellow
- Senior Teaching Fellow
- Professional Practice Fellow
- Senior Professional Practice Fellow.
In addition, they will also hold a concurrent role as Associate Dean - Pacific (0.2 FTE) for a term of three years.
In this role, you will guide the development and delivery of Pacific-focused health content within our undergraduate medical and radiation therapy programmes, ensuring alignment with Pacific health priorities and aspirations. This includes mentoring students, particularly Pacific students and collaborating with Pacific academic leaders to embed cultural competency and equity across the curriculum.
For the Lecturer and Senior Lecturer role, you will also lead a research programme in Pacific health or health systems, grounded in community-informed priorities. Your work will engage respectfully with Pacific communities, seek meaningful outcomes, and contribute to a thriving research culture at the University of Otago Wellington.
Skills and experience/Ka pukeka me ka wheako
To be considered for appointment, candidates will ideally have the following:
- Completed or nearly completed PhD. Preferred discipline areas are in Pacific Health or related area; however, other experiences and qualifications will be considered
- Experience working with or within Pacific organisations, communities, or networks, such as Pacific health providers, community groups, churches, or not-for-profit organisations
- Record of research excellence or demonstrated potential for development of such for those seeking the Lecturer/Senior Lecturer position
- Commitment to rigour and ethics in research and teaching as well as to collegiality
- Commitment to upholding the University's core values related to support and success of Maori and Pacific students, aligned with the University's Maori Strategic Framework and Pacific Strategic Framework. Maori and Pacific applicants are particularly encouraged to apply
- Knowledge/awareness of values and key aspects of Te Ao Maori, and commitment to respect and uphold those values, guided by our Maori leadership, partners, and mana whenua in the Wellington region
We are open to considering applications from individuals who have little or no experience in an academic setting but who have a strong background in Pacific Health and who hold a Bachelor's degree. In the first instance, the successful applicant would be appointed at an appropriate position and level, dependent on experience and interest in further academic pathways.
Further details/Puroko
This is a permanent, full-time (1.0 FTE) position, located in Wellington. The hours of work are negotiable with the successful candidate.
The appointment ranges for this role are as follows:
- Teaching Fellow/Professional Practice Fellow - $75,727 to $102,900
- Senior Teaching Fellow/Senior Professional Practice Fellow - $105,665 to $137,444
- Lecturer - $97,377 to $114,943
- Senior Lecturer - $120,494 to $148,024
This is a unique opportunity to contribute to both academic and community outcomes by advancing Pacific health, supporting the development of future health professionals, and promoting lasting equity and excellence in Aotearoa. The role also contributes to the Division's strategy and supports the broader goals outlined in the University's strategic documents - Pae Tata and Vision 2040.
Application/Tono
Candidates are requested to submit the following:
- Curriculum vitae
- Cover letter addressing suitability of the position
- Names and email addresses of at least three referees
To submit your application please click the apply button. Applications quoting reference number 2500767 will close on Sunday, 31 August 2025.
APPLICATION INFORMATION
To view all current vacancies and to apply online go to: www.otago.ac.nz/jobs
Equal opportunity in employment is University policy.
E tautoko ana Te Whare Wananga o Otago i te kaupapa whakaorite whiwhinga mahi.