New Zealand Law Foundation Chair in Law and Policy in Emerging Technologies

The University of Otago | Ōtākou 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 Ōtākou, Te Waipounamu, Aotearoa, the Pacific, and the world.

Otago was the first University to teach Law in Aotearoa New Zealand, beginning in 1873. The Faculty has a long history of excellence and is a leader in legal research in New Zealand, with strong links to international research networks. Otago's legal research community consists of top-quality academics and postgraduate students from New Zealand and overseas, with a strong record of publications.

The role | Te mahi

We invite applications for the New Zealand Law Foundation Chair in Law and Policy in Emerging Technologies in the Faculty of Law|Te Kaupeka Tātai Ture.

The New Zealand Law Foundation Chair in Emerging Technologies is an exceptional opportunity to explore and address the legal and policy challenges posed by transformative technologies. Established through a partnership with the New Zealand Law Foundation, the Chair aims to provide national and international leadership in the field of emerging technologies. The Chair will be appointed as a member of the Faculty of Law and as the Director of the Centre for Law and Policy in Emerging Technology.

This dynamic and interdisciplinary role will focus on researching the impact of new technologies, fostering collaboration across various disciplines, and delivering innovative solutions to the legal and policy issues shaping our technological future. The appointee will maintain an excellent international research profile and contribute to the development of the Division of Humanities, Faculty of Law, and the wider University community. The role offers support in an extremely collegial academic environment, with an active and dynamic research culture.

The scholar appointed to this Chair will also teach at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, playing an integral role in advancing Otago’s long-standing commitment to excellence in legal education. The Chair will be involved in developing and delivering courses that inspire the next generation of lawyers and policymakers to engage thoughtfully with technological change.

Skills and experience | Kā pūkeka me kā wheako

To be considered for appointment to this prestigious position, applicants should demonstrate:

• A distinguished record of research and publication in fields related to legal and policy aspects of emerging technologies
• Experience in teaching and postgraduate supervision in a university setting
• A proven track record of securing external funding and leading collaborative research projects
• Evidence of international standing and recognition in the field
• Knowledge/awareness of values and key aspects of te ao Māori, and commitment to respect and uphold those values, guided by Ngāi Tahu, as mana whenua in the region.

While the University has a strong preference for making an appointment at the level of Professor, it is open to making an appointment to the level of Associate Professor if that rank is appropriate for the most suitable candidate.

Application | Tono

This is a permanent, full-time (1.0 FTE) position, located in Dunedin.

Applications close on Sunday, 10 August 2025.

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