Lecturer in Psychological Criminology

Te Puna Haumaru - Centre for Security and Crime Science invites applications for a permanent Lecturer in Psychological Criminology. This is an exciting opportunity for an emerging scholar to contribute to research and teaching that improves community safety and reduces crime in Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond.

Psychological Criminology at Waikato is a multidisciplinary field focused on the psychology of criminal behaviour, including the development, maintenance, and reduction of involvement in criminal lifestyles and crime events. We are particularly interested in applicants whose expertise aligns with effective crime prevention interventions, restorative and alternative justice approaches, or the treatment and management of people within correctional and criminal justice systems. However, we welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates who can contribute to the Centre's values and vision.

You will develop and maintain an active research programme producing high-quality outputs in reputable journals and contributing meaningfully to policy and practice debates. You will enhance the reputation and visibility of Te Puna Haumaru and the University through publications, conference presentations, professional engagement, and collaborations with academic, community, iwi, and industry partners.

The role includes research-informed teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels within crime science, forensic psychology, security and crime science, and psychology. You will supervise honours, masters, and, over time, doctoral students, and contribute to curriculum development and paper coordination.

Salary will be in the range of $92,603 to $110,407 per year based on skills, knowledge, and experience brought to the position. This is a full-time, permanent position based at our Hillcrest Campus in Hamilton.

Who are you?

You will hold a PhD (or be near completion) in a relevant discipline and demonstrate expertise in an area of psychological criminology relevant to reducing crime and improving community safety in New Zealand.

You will also bring the following:

• Evidence of an emerging research profile, including high-quality publications (or equivalent) and clear potential for impactful, policy-relevant scholarship
• Demonstrated success in undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, including lecturing and small-group facilitation
• The ability to contribute to postgraduate supervision
• A strong commitment to research-led teaching and academic excellence
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to relate effectively to students and colleagues from diverse backgrounds
• A collaborative, proactive approach and willingness to contribute to Centre, School, Division, and University service
• A demonstrated commitment to the University's partnership with Māori as intended by Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and to fostering an inclusive and supportive academic environment

Experience with innovative teaching approaches, external research funding applications, and postgraduate supervision will be advantageous.

Ko wai mātou? - Who are we?

Te Wānanga o Ngā Kete - the Division of Arts, Law, Psychology and Social Sciences - is a large and dynamic Division comprising Te Kura Toi (School of Arts), Te Kura Aronui (School of Social Sciences), Te Kura Whatu Oho Mauri (School of Psychological and Social Sciences), and Te Piringa (Faculty of Law).

Te Puna Haumaru - Centre for Security and Crime Science - is a research-focused centre dedicated to producing high-quality empirical research that tangibly improves efforts to reduce crime and harm in New Zealand. The Centre provides a creative, supportive, and questioning environment for learning and is committed to serving the educational needs of Māori communities locally and nationally while preparing graduates for careers in crime prevention and related professions.

Applications close on Friday, 17 April 2026

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