Research Assistant- Te Kura Mātai Hinengaro | School of Psychology – 36 month fixed term – part time (18.75 hrs p/w)

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

Help shape the future of mental health for Cook Islands communities.

This is more than a research role—it’s an opportunity to contribute to work that is grounded in culture, connection, and community voice. You’ll be part of a project that places Cook Islands perspectives at its heart, working alongside communities to better understand, support, and strengthen mental wellbeing for rangatahi and future generations.

The programme includes translation of mental health resources, qualitative engagement with youth, and implementation of a large-scale Cook Islands mental health survey.

If you are passionate about Pasifika wellbeing, culturally grounded research, and creating real-world impact, this role offers a unique chance to make a meaningful difference.

Ngā Haepapa Matua | Key Responsibilities (not limited to):

You will support the delivery of the research programme through:

• Assisting with the translation and cultural adaptation of mental health resources into Cook Islands languages
• Supporting youth engagement and qualitative research (talanoa/interviews) within Cook Islands communities
• Contributing to the planning and implementation of a large-scale mental health survey
• Coordinating fieldwork logistics, including travel and engagement across multiple island locations
• Supporting participant recruitment, data collection, and data management
• Assisting with transcription, qualitative data organisation, and analysis
• Contributing to research outputs, including reports, presentations, and manuscripts
• Supporting project coordination and day-to-day research activities

For more detailed information on the role, accountabilities, and requirements, please review this position description 

This is a part‑time (18.75 hrs p/w), 36‑month fixed‑term position

The remuneration range is $56,400 - $61,700 per annum, dependent on skills and experience, and will be pro-rated

He kōrero mōu | About you
You are a confident communicator and relationship‑builder who enjoys working with young people, whānau and communities. You bring warmth, energy, and professionalism to conversations and thrive in a role that requires collaboration, adaptability, and cultural competence.

You will bring:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Pacific Studies, or a related discipline
• Experience supporting research projects and/or working with communities
• Strong organisational, communication, and time-management skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• A high level of cultural competency and sensitivity in Pacific contexts

We particularly welcome applications from candidates of Cook Islands heritage or those with a strong understanding of Pasifika cultures, values, and community engagement approaches.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer
The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university and maintains significant computational, laboratory, and analytic facilities. Auckland itself is frequently ranked among the world’s most liveable cities. 

The University is committed to providing an excellent working environment through:

• Flexible employment practices (including working from home, flexible hours)
• Up to 6.75% company superannuation scheme
• A competitive salary with five weeks’ annual leave

In addition, we also offer career development programmes, discounted car parking, a generous parental leave allowance, childcare, and a number of other discounts on internal and external services. 

For more information, please visit Staff Benefits.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Applications must be submitted online by the closing date of 15th May 2026 to be considered. Please include your cover letter and CV, highlighting how you can meet the skills and experience detailed above.

Please reach out to Sam Manuela (Associate Professor- Psychology) via [email protected] for a confidential conversation. Please note we are happy to answer your questions, but we do not accept applications by email.