Research Programme Manager

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

We are looking for an experienced and collaborative Research Programme Manager to join our Research Support team.

This is an exciting opportunity to work alongside leading researchers and play a pivotal role in delivering innovative research that addresses global challenges. You'll provide strategic and operational leadership across a portfolio of complex research programmes, partnering with academics, funding agencies, UniServices, and University stakeholders to ensure projects are delivered successfully from funding application through to completion.

As a trusted advisor, you'll oversee research planning, project governance, financial management, compliance, reporting, and stakeholder engagement, while identifying opportunities to improve processes and enhance the support provided to our research community.

If you enjoy building strong relationships, navigating complexity, and enabling research excellence, this is a fantastic opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the end-to-end management of complex research programmes across the full research lifecycle

• Partnering with researchers to develop competitive funding proposals, budgets, and project plans

• Managing research programme finances, reporting, compliance, risks, and contractual obligations

• Providing strategic advice and guidance on research funding processes, governance, and sponsor requirements

• Building strong relationships with researchers, funding agencies, UniServices, and professional staff across the University

• Identifying opportunities to improve research support processes and contribute to continuous service improvement

• Coaching colleagues and sharing expertise to strengthen capability across the Research Support team

• Monitoring programme milestones and ensuring research projects are delivered successfully, on time, and within budget

This is a rewarding opportunity to support world-leading research while working in a collaborative environment that values partnership, innovation, and continuous improvement.

This is a full-time, 37.5-hour-per-week role on a fixed-term contract until 31/5/2027. The salary range for this role is $87,000 – $107,500 prorated per annum, depending on experience and qualifications. 

For more information, please review the Position Description.

He kōrero mōu | About you

You are an experienced project or research management professional who enjoys working alongside researchers to help ambitious ideas become reality.

You bring excellent organisational skills, strong financial and project management capability, and the confidence to build trusted relationships across a diverse range of stakeholders. You're comfortable managing multiple priorities, solving complex problems, and working in a dynamic environment where no two days are the same.

Most importantly, you're passionate about enabling research excellence and delivering outstanding service that helps researchers succeed.

Ngā pūkenga motuhake | Important skills and experience

• A tertiary qualification, with postgraduate qualifications or research experience highly regarded

• At least five years' experience in research management or complex project management, including financial oversight

• Strong project management, budgeting, and risk management skills

• Excellent relationship-building, communication, and stakeholder management skills

• Strong analytical skills and the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment

• Confidence using Microsoft Office, particularly Excel; experience with research management systems would be an advantage

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

The University of Auckland provides a supportive, people-centred working environment where your wellbeing and professional development are genuinely valued. As part of our team, you'll enjoy:

• Flexible employment practices, including hybrid working

• Up to 6.75% employer superannuation contribution

• Five weeks' annual leave

• A wide range of professional development opportunities

• Generous parental leave provisions

• Access to staff discounts, recreation facilities, wellbeing initiatives, and discounted parking

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Please reach out to Melanie Milicich - m.milicich@auckland.ac.nz for a confidential conversation. Please note we are happy to answer your questions but we do not accept applications by email.

Applications must be submitted online, by the closing date of 16/07/26 to be considered. Please include your CV and a cover letter highlighting how you can meet the skills and experiences detailed above.