Are you passionate about research that creates meaningful change? This is your opportunity to contribute to innovative, community-led research that strengthens the well-being of iwi, Māori, and Indigenous communities across Aotearoa and beyond.
Te Kotahi Research Institute at the University of Waikato is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow – Social Innovation to join a dynamic, multidisciplinary research environment where scholarship, collaboration, and mātauranga Māori come together to influence policy, practice, and social outcomes.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Make a Meaningful Impact
Your research will directly contribute to improving health, social services, and community development outcomes. Working alongside iwi and Māori organisations, you will help co-design solutions that reflect community aspirations and support Indigenous self-determination.
Collaborate in a World-Class Research Environment
Te Kotahi Research Institute is a nationally and internationally connected hub, bringing together scholars from diverse disciplines. You’ll work with leading researchers, policy experts, and community partners to drive innovation and knowledge exchange.
Grow Your Academic Career
This role offers strong professional development opportunities, including:
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Leading and contributing to funded research initiatives
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Publishing in high-quality academic outlets
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Presenting at national and international conferences
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Participating in teaching and knowledge exchange
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Receiving mentorship from senior academics
About the Role
As a Postdoctoral Fellow in Social Innovation, you will play a key role in advancing research that enhances social impact and community well-being. You will:
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Conduct high-quality research across health, social services, and community development
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Integrate mātauranga Māori into policy, research, and innovation
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Collaborate with iwi and Māori organisations and facilitate co-design workshops
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Develop research proposals, publish findings, and share insights through conferences and teaching
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Contribute to multidisciplinary research projects that deliver real-world outcomes
This is a full-time (37.5 hours per week), two-year fixed-term position, based at the Hillcrest Campus in Hamilton.
Salary range: $90,125 – $95,500 per annum (pro-rata), depending on skills and experience.
Who We’re Looking For
You are a motivated researcher who is committed to social innovation and Indigenous-led research. You will bring:
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A strong research and publication track record
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Excellent stakeholder and community engagement skills
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A demonstrated commitment to Māori research aspirations and the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi
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A PhD completed or near completion in a relevant field
Don’t meet every requirement?
We know talent comes in many forms. If this opportunity excites you but your experience doesn’t perfectly align with every criterion, we still encourage you to apply.
About Te Kotahi Research Institute
Te Kotahi Research Institute is a cross-University research hub dedicated to advancing knowledge that improves the well-being of iwi, Māori, Indigenous communities, and society as a whole. Our work is grounded in research for, by, and with Māori, integrating mātauranga Māori into policy development, data systems, and digital innovation. Through strong national and international networks, we foster collaboration, creativity, and solutions that contribute to a more inclusive future.
Why Join the University of Waikato?
The University of Waikato is a globally recognised institution, known for future-focused education and research with national and international impact. We are committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion, and our work is guided by the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi.
Ko te Tangata – For the People
Our people and communities are at the heart of everything we do.
Apply Now
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Applications close: Tuesday, 31 March 2026 (unless filled earlier)
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Requisition number: 1003222
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Applications are reviewed as they are received, so early applications are encouraged.
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All applications must be submitted through the online portal (emailed applications will not be accepted).
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Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand.
Take the next step in your research career and help shape positive change for communities across Aotearoa.
Apply now and be part of something transformative.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
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