Kairuruku | Research Assistant at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington

Lower Hutt, Wellington, New Zealand -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

20 Aug, 26

Salary

0.0

Posted On

22 May, 26

Experience

2 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Protein Expression, Protein Purification, Molecular Biology, Biophysical Characterisation, Recombinant Protein Production, Cloning, Site-directed Mutagenesis, Isothermal Titration Calorimetry, Differential Scanning Fluorimetry, Differential Scanning Calorimetry, Chromatography Systems, Data Analysis, Experimental Design, Laboratory Record Keeping, Scientific Writing, Collaboration

Industry

Higher Education

Description

* Have you got prior experience in protein expression and purification? * Can you quickly learn new techniques and new technologies to operate independently? * Are you a collaborative and self-motivated professional who builds strong relationships across diverse stakeholders? Kōrero mō te tūranga - About the role Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington is currently recruiting a Kairuruku - Research Assistant to join the Ferrier Research Institute team on a 3.5-month fixed-term contract. Key responsibilities: * Perform experimental work in molecular biology, protein expression, purification, and biophysical characterisation at laboratory scale. * Design and execute experiments involving recombinant protein production (e.g. cloning, site-directed mutagenesis, expression optimisation, purification). * Conduct biophysical and biochemical assays, including but not limited to isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), differential scanning fluorimetry (DSF), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and standard protein characterisation techniques. * Operate laboratory instrumentation relevant to protein science (e.g. chromatography systems, plate readers, calorimetry platforms), ensuring accurate data collection and quality control. * Analyse and interpret experimental data, including binding, stability, and thermodynamic measurements, using appropriate software and quantitative methods. * Apply scientific literature and established protocols to design, troubleshoot, and optimise experimental workflows. * Exercise independent judgment in selecting and adapting experimental approaches, while working within defined project objectives. * Maintain clear, accurate, and well-organised laboratory records in accordance with best research practices. * Communicate results effectively through written reports, presentations, and discussions with supervisors and collaborators. * Work efficiently to contribute to short-term research goals within the defined project timeline. Ō pūmanawa - About you You will be a collaborative and self-motivated professional who builds strong relationships across diverse stakeholders, communicates effectively, and applies sound judgement, innovation, and integrity to deliver high-quality, client-focused outcomes. Key requirements: * Minimum MSc or equivalent in Molecular biology, Biochemistry or a related discipline. * Prior experience in protein expression and purification. * Ability to quickly learn new techniques and new technologies to operate independently. * Clear, effective two-way communication with research teams. * Familiarity with literature searching techniques and data analysing software. * Ability to organize and document research, analytical data, and products in a traceable manner. * Ability to work as part of a highly collaborative team. Role Description: Click here to see further information, including salary details. [https://vuw.sharepoint.com/:b:/s/VacancyRoleDescriptions/IQALiiXuLxTcRL-cdajiMGQGAb4Ts6Gh7xz7lLNBinY4adw?e=bZZgV3&download=1] If this link is not available, click 'apply' to view this on the University career's page. Close date for vacancy: 29 May 2026. Contact details for vacancy: If you have any questions regarding this role please get in touch with Wanting Jiao (wanting.jiao@vuw.ac.nz). How to apply: Please ensure you are applying for this role directly on our careers page and not via email. Candidates must submit supporting documents along with their resume, such as a cover letter. Applicants who do not have residency or citizenship and require a visa to work at the University must clearly indicate their visa status in their application and understand that if they do not have a current, relevant visa, they will need to secure this independently. Mō Te Herenga Waka - About Our University Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington [https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/about] is renowned for its high-quality research and exceptional teaching. We attract people from around the world. Our university campus spans Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington - the creative, scientific and political centre of Aotearoa New Zealand - and our students thrive on the connections we have made here. Explore the many benefits [https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/about/working-here/employment-information] of working at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington. Find out where you fit in our strategic direction [https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/about/governance/strategic-plan] and learn more about our research expertise [https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/research/strengths/faculty].

Responsibilities

The role involves performing experimental work in molecular biology, protein expression, and purification at a laboratory scale. Key duties include designing recombinant protein production experiments and conducting biophysical and biochemical assays to analyze binding and stability.