Lecturer/Senior Lecturer in Physics/Pūkenga/Pūkenga Matua

Lecturer: Base Salary Range: NZ $91,738 to $107,600 per annum

Senior Lecturer: Base Salary Range: NZ $112,888 to $138,917 per annum

• Do you have a PhD in Physics or a closely related field?
• Do you have expertise in cosmology, radio astronomy, or space instrumentation?
• Are you committed to high-quality research and teaching, with a strong record of published academic research?

Kōrero mō te tūranga - About the role

Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington is currently recruiting a Pūkenga - Lecturer or Pūkenga Matua - Senior Lecturer in Physics to join Te Wānanga Matū - School of Chemical and Physical Sciences on a permanent, full-time basis.

The appointee will develop, administer, and teach undergraduate and postgraduate Physics and Space Science courses. There is an expectation to contribute to and grow our Physics and Space Science programmes, as well as recruit and supervise postgraduate students. Establishing or maintaining an Aotearoa New Zealand-based research programme is essential, along with the ability to attract external research funding.

Key responsibilities:

• Deliver and coordinate high-quality undergraduate and postgraduate courses, implementing innovative teaching methods and mentoring students.
• Establish and/or develop a robust research programme, secure external funding, supervise postgraduate students, and disseminate research findings.
• Contribute to the strategic goals of Te Wānanga Matū - School of Chemical and Physical Sciences, including improving the student experience and recruiting and retaining underrepresented student groups.
• Contribute to service and leadership within the School, Faculty, University, and/or wider profession.

Ō pūmanawa - About you

You will be motivated by a passion for Physics and/or Space Science and committed to high-quality research and teaching. We particularly encourage applicants who can incorporate Māori and Pasifika perspectives and interests into their research. Candidates with expertise in cosmology, radio astronomy, or space instrumentation are strongly encouraged to apply.

Key requirements:

• A PhD in Physics or a closely related field.
• Excellent teaching skills, including experience lecturing, leading tutorials, or delivering laboratory classes.
• A strong record of published academic research.
• Proven ability to secure research funding and manage research projects.
• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills.
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to work collaboratively with academic, technical, and administrative staff to achieve the School’s teaching goals.

For appointment at Pūkenga Matua - Senior Lecturer level, experience in teaching, research, and engagement commensurate with the role is required.

Role descriptions: Click the links below for further information, including salary details.

Pūkenga - Lecturer

Pūkenga Matua - Senior Lecturer

If these links are not available, click the 'Apply' button above to view them on the University careers page.

Close date: 15 March 2026.

Contact details: If you have any questions regarding this role, please contact Head of School, Associate Professor Rob Keyzers at robert.keyzers@vuw.ac.nz

How to apply: Please apply directly via our careers page and do not email your application. Candidates must submit supporting documents with their resume, including a cover letter. Applicants who require a visa to work at the University must clearly indicate their visa status in their application. If you do not hold a current, relevant visa, you will need to secure this independently.

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