Postdoctoral Fellow

Ready to apply your skills to meaningful environmental research? Join us in advancing conservation science and biosecurity in Aotearoa New Zealand. 

Mō te tūka | The role

Are you an early-career researcher with a passion for plant ecology, data analytics, and fieldwork? Join our collaborative and innovative team at Lincoln University as a Postdoctoral Fellow.

Based within the Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, this role will see you working closely with Distinguished Professor Philip Hulme to contribute to impactful research on plant invasions and biosecurity. You'll have the opportunity to engage with nationally and internationally significant projects while developing your academic career in a supportive and collegial environment.

Some tasks of the role include:

• Conduct research on landscape-scale plant invasions, including field surveys and spatial data analysis
• Utilise advanced data analytical techniques, particularly GIS and spatial modelling
• Manage large ecological datasets, ensuring accuracy, metadata documentation, and version control
• Publish research findings in high-quality peer-reviewed journals
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across institutions and contribute to national/international research priorities
• Support departmental activities, seminars, and contribute to postgraduate teaching as agreed

This is a three-year fixed term role working 37.5 hours per week (1.0 FTE) at our Lincoln Campus. Salary: $70,000 - $80,000 per annum, depending on experience.

Kā tino Pūkeka/Whēako | Essential skills/experience for the role

To be successful in this role you will have:

• A PhD in a relevant biological or biostatistical field
• Strong skills in statistical analysis and spatial data interpretation using GIS
• Demonstrated experience in managing large ecological datasets
• Excellent communication skills, with a track record of scientific publication
• The ability to work independently and as part of a diverse team
• A valid driver's licence and willingness to undertake fieldwork

Kā hua ka riro ki a koe | What's in it for you?

At Lincoln University, you'll be part of a supportive and inclusive workplace that values diversity and equal opportunity.

From day one, enjoy a range of benefits designed to support your professional growth, wellbeing, and work-life balance, including:

• Grow your career with expert-led training & mentorship
• Generous leave - five weeks of paid leave per year (based on 1.0 FTE)
• Annual salary reviews to recognise your contributions
• Free on-site parking for added convenience
• Flexible, family-friendly work environment promoting work-life balance
• Wellbeing support - free, confidential services through ClearHead
• Exclusive employee benefits with Southern Cross Health Insurance
• On-campus gym with discounted membership fees
• Access to an on-site early childhood centre with staff discounts
• Boost rewards membership for retail & service discounts
• Engaging social culture - staff groups, activities & events
• A vibrant university community - beautiful gardens, on-site cafés & a collaborative atmosphere.

Mō mātou | About us

Te Whare Wānaka o Aoraki | Lincoln University is a specialist institution dedicated to impactful research and higher education that supports land-based industries in New Zealand and globally.

Our campus sits at the heart of the Lincoln research precinct, complemented by university-owned farms and research stations that blend education, research, and hands-on learning. At Lincoln, students are at the heart of everything we do—we empower them to grow their potential and contribute to a more sustainably productive world through world-class teaching and research.

As a progressive university with an ambitious vision, we value a professional workforce that reflects the diversity of our community. Our staff engage with students, parents, government, iwi, and external stakeholders, upholding Lincoln University's reputation through their work.

Our Te Tiriti o Waitangi commitments begin with mana whenua. We honour our special relationship with Ngāi Te Ruahikihiki and Te Taumutu Rūnanga, embedded in our He Tūtohinga Whakamātau | Charter of Understanding.

Tono ināianei | Apply now

Ready to apply? Submit your CV and a cover letter that highlights your fit for the role—tell us what makes you the ideal candidate!

Applications received via email will not be considered, however specific enquiry relating to the role can be made to [email protected]