Location: Nelson, Aotearoa New Zealand | Full-time, Permanent
Salary: NZ $85,000 – $115,000 (depending on skills and experience)
Join Cawthron Institute and contribute to applied research and consultancy that helps protect and restore Aotearoa New Zealand’s freshwater and coastal environments. Work alongside passionate experts and help shape solutions for some of Aotearoa’s most pressing environmental challenges.
We are seeking an Environmental Research Scientist – Marine Ecology to lead and contribute to multidisciplinary research and consultancy projects within our Environmental Interactions team. Applying your expertise in marine ecology, you will deliver high-quality scientific outcomes that support environmental management, sustainable development and informed decision-making across Aotearoa New Zealand.
Working collaboratively across Cawthron and with external partners, you will develop and lead innovative research and commercial projects, contribute to funding proposals and business development activities, and build strong relationships with clients, industry, iwi, government agencies and research collaborators. You will provide scientific leadership within interdisciplinary project teams, ensuring projects are delivered to a high standard, on time and within budget.
This role is suited to an experienced marine ecologist who enjoys applying science to real-world environmental challenges and working across both research and commercial projects.
For more information please click here to view the Role Description (available via our careers page).
- A postgraduate qualification, typically a PhD or relevant equivalent experience in Marine Science or a related discipline with ideally 3-5 years’ experience in a research or commercial environment.
- Experience contributing to research and/or consultancy projects, including scientific analysis, reporting, and communication of results.
- Expertise in benthic ecology across both soft sediment and rocky reef environments, with proven ability to plan, coordinate, and undertake fieldwork.
- Strong writing skills, with the ability to clearly communicate scientific ideas and results in reports, proposals, and client deliverables.
- Exposure to research proposal or consultancy bid development is desirable.
- The ability to build and maintain constructive working relationships with colleagues, clients, and partners in a collaborative project environment.
- Strong analytical thinking and attention to detail, with sound scientific judgement when working on complex environmental problems.
- A collaborative, adaptable, and innovative approach, with strong organisational skills.
If you think you have what it takes, but don't meet every single bullet point above, we encourage you to get in touch regardless to see if you could be a great fit for our team.
Cawthron Institute is New Zealand’s largest independent science organisation, delivering innovative solutions for sustainable aquaculture, seafood safety, and environmental protection. You’ll join a supportive team that values collaboration, integrity, and impact.
Benefits of Working at Cawthron
- Flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance.
- Professional development opportunities to grow your skills and career.
- Health and wellbeing initiatives, including access to wellness programmes.
- A collaborative and inclusive culture where your contribution makes a real difference.
- The chance to work in beautiful Nelson, surrounded by a stunning natural environment.
If you are interested in joining our team, please apply via our careers page with your CV and a cover letter, outlining what you can bring to the role.
At Cawthron, we are committed to upholding equitable and inclusive practices. If there are accommodations that we can provide to support you throughout the recruitment process, or for any questions about the role, please email [email protected].
For the right candidate, we are able to provide support towards an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) application.
Applications close: 07 August 2026 at 5:00pm (NZ time).
