Research Associate
Plant Pathogen Environment
Mt Albert, New Zealand
Vacancy number: 58646
Fixed term 13 months - Parental Leave Cover
We are looking for someone with specialist Research Associate skills, including exquisitely sensitive and specific virus detection and identification, coupled with communication capabilities, to support research projects in our Plant Pathogen Environment team. Our team needs this support while one of the team members takes a period or parental Leave. If you have the skills we need, we want to talk with you.
What you will be doing | Ngā whāinga matua
You will work on a number of research projects providing valuable support to our Plant Pathogen Environment team. You will:
- Conduct and report on laboratory-based processing of samples for the identification of known and new-to-science viruses and viroids
- Develop and validate virus (and other microbe) detection technologies such as CRISPR/Cas technology
- Gather, record and carry out initial analysis and reporting of laboratory data along with ensuring that our internal and external customers are updated regularly on project planning and research results.
What you will bring | Ngā tino pūkenga me ngā wheako
To be successful in this role, the minimum qualifications required are:
- BSc or BSc (Hons) in Biology or Chemistry
- Molecular experience and skills preferably including RNA and DNA isolation, ELISA methods, CRISPR design and use, and preferably virus and viroid detection
- Ability to design, manage and conduct research experiments
- Practical experience with computing methods including word-processing, Excel spreadsheets and data processing, and experience with statistical packages such as R would be an advantage
- Well-developed written and verbal communication skills including oral presentation skills, and knowledge or experience with (or willingness to learn) Te Ao Māori principles
- Must hold a full New Zealand driver license, and preferably a passport and willingness to travel for work if required.
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 PFR, we offer excellent employee benefits and flexibility, such as:
- Generous leave options
- Excellent benefit choices in retirement savings and wellbeing & health
- Focus on health and wellbeing with enhanced sick leave
- Ongoing career development opportunities
- Openness to Flexible work - hybrid working options and flexible hours
- Auckland based onsite childcare
Mō te Pakihi | About the Company
As part of the Government's reset of the science, innovation and technology system, on 1 July 2025, AgResearch, Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research, Plant & Food Research, and Scion will merge to form the Bioeconomy Science Institute.
This merger will create a world-class research organisation of globally significant size and scale, with over 2,000 employees — including scientists, researchers, and support staff. It brings together fundamental science knowledge and expertise in the natural resources that underpin the bioeconomy and the native estate, alongside applied research capabilities in manufacturing, agritech and biotech, and the food and fibre sectors.
Our people drive innovation and commercial outcomes in the bioeconomy, using research and technology to support enduring economic growth and resilience, a healthy environment, and positive social outcomes for Aotearoa New Zealand.
