Research Advisor - Canterbury at Te Whatu Ora, Canterbury

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Permanent, part-time position as part of the Health NZ Research team supporting the Canterbury research office
• Play a key role in supporting and strengthening research capability across Health New Zealand
• Work alongside clinicians, researchers and other research office colleagues to ensure the set up and establishment of high-quality research
• Work to support key national programmes of work as required

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is the country's largest employer, delivering universal public healthcare to 5 million New Zealanders.

We provide essential hospital, specialist, and community health services across 80+ locations — from large urban centres to rural towns and remote communities.

Our goal is to improve health outcomes for all New Zealanders by delivering equitable, accessible and innovative care.

About the Role

As a Research Advisor, you'll play an important role in supporting and enabling high-quality research across Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora. Based at the Cantberbury Research Office within the you'll work collaboratively with researchers, clinicians, and external stakeholders to provide expert guidance on study design, feasibility, ethics, and regulatory processes.

You'll review and support research applications, assist with the development of research proposals, and provide advice on funding opportunities and post-award grant management. In this role, you'll also help build research capability across the organisation by identifying training needs and contributing to the delivery of research workshops.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to impactful health research that supports equitable outcomes and reflects Te Tiriti o Waitangi in action. You'll be part of a knowledgeable, collaborative team that values continuous learning and evidence-based practice.

This role is a part-time permanent role at 28hrs per week (0.7FTE)

About You

As a Research Advisor, you're analytical, detail-oriented and passionate about supporting meaningful research that improves health outcomes. You have a strong understanding of research processes and the ability to translate complex information clearly and accurately for a range of audiences.

You will have:

• A relevant postgraduate qualification in health, science or a related field
• 3–5 years' experience working in a clinical or health research environment, ideally within the public hospital sector
• Sound understanding of New Zealand's ethical and regulatory standards for health and disability research
• Strong communication and relationship management skills, with the ability to work diplomatically across diverse stakeholder groups
• Knowledge of or a willingness to develop understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and how its principles apply to research

Working at Health New Zealand 

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and service our community. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.  

 How to Apply 

To apply, please click “apply now.”  All applications must be submitted through our online careers' portal by 11:59PM on Friday 24 April 2026. For further information, please contact Lynda Francis on lynda.francis@tewhatuora.govt.nz

Whilst Health New Zealand is undergoing change, affected kaimahi will be given preference and priority for this position.

We will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process before the closing date of this advert.