Scientist

• Are you a self-motivated, team player with a strong research track record?
• Have you got an interested in a fixed-term, full-time role for 2 years?
• Do you have a PhD in physics or a closely related field?

Kōrero mō te tūranga - About the role

Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington and Paihau - Robinson Research Institute are currently recruiting qualified and highly motivated scientists with ambition to develop their research career within an academic R&D environment and the ability to conceptualise and originate new ideas that are outside industry norms. Paihau – Robinson work closely with commercial partners and carry out mission-oriented R&D and you should have the desire to see your work implemented with partners.

Initially, you will work primarily on our government-funded experimental R&D programme investigating the development of cryogenic memory devices and their integration with superconducting electronics which will enable tomorrow’s high-performance computing. In this role you will be supporting this programme as part of the spintronics team at Te Herenga Waka which spans both the Paihau - Robinson Research Institute & Te Wānanga Matū - School of Chemical & Physical Sciences .

Key responsibilities

• Engaging in the deposition, patterning, and electrical/magnetic characterization of thin films, using various sputtering and molecular beam epitaxy, lithography, and measurement systems.
• Providing guidance and mentorship of students, fostering their academic and professional growth.
• Collaborate with research partners and other academic institutions to advance the field of cryogenic electronics and the application of rare earth nitride materials to this field.

Ō pūmanawa - About you

You will have:

• A keen interest in advancing technological developments through the application of novel materials, and in furthering fundamental understanding in materials science.
• A PhD in physics or a closely related field.
• Excellent communication skills and a passion for detail-orientated work.
• A strong research track record, demonstrating a deep understanding of at least some of the following areas: cryogenic electronics, materials science, quantum systems, thin film deposition, electronic device fabrication.
• Excellent oral written communication skills.
• Practical implementation skills.

Can you:

• Bring a positive attitude to staff and students alike and have excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Be a strong team player able to work closely with collaborators from multiple partner organisations.
• Be self-motivated and able to work in a fast-paced environment alongside other high-performing researchers.

There are many benefits to working at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington, including being part of New Zealand’s top research university.

Close Date for Vacancy: 31 January 2025

Contact Details for Vacancy: If you have any questions regarding this role please get in touch with Jeannie Redman, Institute Manager ( jeannie.redman@vuw.ac.nz ).

When applying for this position, 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.