Scientist - Aquatic Animal Health

Job Details

Help shape the future of aquatic biosecurity in New Zealand and protect our marine environments.

Are you ready to use your expertise to help safeguard New Zealand’s aquatic environments and protect our oceans, biodiversity and seafood industries? 

Then look no further! Come join the Cawthron Institute’s high-performing Aquatic Animal Health Team to help strengthen Aotearoa New Zealand’s aquatic biosecurity systems and aid prevention, mitigation and management of diseases in aquatic wildlife, fisheries and aquaculture. Interested? Read on!

What will you do?

• Deliver cutting-edge research in aquatic animal health, focusing on one or more areas including disease diagnostics, prevention and treatment.
• Work in our state-of-the-art aquatic biocontainment facility to develop solutions to prevention and treatment of aquatic diseases in shellfish and fish.
• Work as part of our Aquatic Animal Health Team to investigate the cause of aquatic disease issues and identify mechanisms to manage emerging aquatic health threats.
• Provide expert technical advice to industry, iwi, and government agencies on biosecurity preparedness, response, and best practice.
• Mentor and guide junior scientists, building capability across the team.
• Publish and present research to influence national policy, industry practice, international standards, and scientific knowledge.
• Represent Cawthron to help set the agenda for aquatic biosecurity.

Who are we looking for?

• PhD and between 5 and 10 years of experience in aquatic animal health, veterinary science, microbiology, immunology, or a related discipline.
• Track record of research delivery, including publications, project leadership, and stakeholder engagement.
• Strong leadership skills and experience managing complex projects or programmes.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills with the ability to translate science into actionable advice.
• Motivated by making a tangible difference in environmental protection and aquaculture sustainability.

Why come and work with us?

• You will have the opportunity to influence science that has national and global impact, protecting Aotearoa’s ecosystems and aquaculture industries.
• You will join a high-performing, collaborative team where your work shapes strategy, policy, and practice.
• Work in state-of-the-art facilities in sunny Nelson, surrounded by a beautiful natural environment.
• Enjoy career growth and professional development, including mentoring, international collaborations, and publishing opportunities.
• Be part of an organisation committed to a positive future for New Zealand where your contribution matters.

Ready to take the next step in your career? Apply now!

Please include a Cover Letter in your application showing why you are the best fit for this role. In your Cover Letter, please also answer the following questions:

• What is your expertise relevant to aquatic animal health or related research, and how would you apply it at Cawthron to progress the field and safeguard Aotearoa?
• What are examples of your experience that you have leading research projects?

A Cover Letter addressing these two questions must be included for your application to be considered.

We are excited to learn how your expertise and experience can strengthen New Zealand’s aquatic biosecurity and support Cawthron’s mission to deliver world-class science with real-world impact.

If you have any questions pertaining to the role, please email our Recruitment Team at recruitment@cawthron.org.nz.

At Cawthron, we are committed to equitable and inclusive recruitment practices. If there are accommodations that we can provide during the recruitment process to help you put your best foot forward or feel more comfortable, please let us know.

Click here to review the Role Description: Scientist – Aquatic Animal Health (Level 3) - RD - Aug25.pdf (available via our careers page).

The appointing salary for this role will be between $80,000-$100,000 per annum.

Applications close on Monday the 22nd of September at 5:00pm sharp so don’t delay if you want the chance to be able to make a real difference in the future of Aquatic Biosecurity in New Zealand!

Requirements

See main ad.

Contact Information