Engineer Research Software (Christchurch)

DIGITAL SERVICES DIVISION | RATONGA MATIHIKO INFORMATION SYSTEMS | TE POUTOKO TUKUTUKU

About our team | Mō te tīma

The University of Otago, New Zealand’s oldest university, is seeking a Research Software Engineer to join the eResearch Support team in the Digital Division. You will join a team of specialist Research Software Engineers and scientific programmers who develop software solutions that enable world-class research across the University. The team ensures research software and digital solutions are secure, sustainable, and aligned with best practice.

The role | Te mahi

Based in Christchurch, you will provide technical expertise across software engineering, scientific computing, data science, and research data management. Working closely with researchers and Digital Division colleagues, you will design, develop, and support software and data solutions that enable high-quality research. A significant component of the role supports the Christchurch Health and Development Study (CHDS), a world-renowned longitudinal study that has followed 1,265 people born in Christchurch in 1977. For almost 50 years, CHDS has generated internationally recognised research that has informed health and social policy in New Zealand and beyond.

Your skills and experience | Kā pūkeka me kā wheako

You will have a background in research-focused software development and a passion for enabling high-quality research through technology. Comfortable operating at a hands-on level, you will guide complex technical work while building effective relationships with researchers and academic staff. You will bring a collaborative, consultative approach and be able to communicate effectively with researchers, technical specialists, and stakeholders.

Key tasks of the role include:

• Administering and maintaining CHDS databases.
• Developing research data architecture, dictionaries, and metadata.
• Creating data collection instruments, including REDCap forms and surveys.
• Supporting statistical analysis and reporting activities.
• Managing approved external data access requests.
• Contributing to publications, reports, and research outputs.
• Developing protocols and providing database training.
• Supporting research data maturity initiatives across the Christchurch campus.

Successful candidates will also have:

• A postgraduate qualification (Master’s or PhD) in a relevant discipline, or equivalent experience.
• Experience developing software in research, academic, or scientific environments.
• Proficiency in languages such as Python, R, SQL, C/C++, Fortran, or Julia.
• Experience applying scientific computing, data science, or computational modelling techniques.
• Knowledge of software engineering principles, version control, and development practices.
• Experience with high-performance computing or research infrastructure.
• Familiarity with reproducible research, FAIR and CARE data principles, and secure research environments.

Further details | Pūroko

This is a permanent, full-time (37.5 hours week) position, based in Ōtautahi, Christchurch.

The salary range for this position is Digital Specialist Band D - $99,364 to $120,834. Top of range $127,993. This includes an additional salary allocation currently available for this position

The University of Otago is a workplace that values and utilises diverse and inclusive thinking, people and behaviours. This means that the contributions of staff with diverse backgrounds, experiences, skills and perspectives are valued and respected.

For further information, or to discuss the role in confidence – please contact Murray Cadzow or James Foulds via the contact details below.

Application | Tono

To submit your application (including CV and cover letter) please click the apply button. Applications quoting reference number 2601424 will close on Sunday, 11 October.

Applications may be reviewed as they are received. The University reserves the right to close this vacancy at any time.

Additional Information

Contact: Murray Cadzow & James Foulds

Position details: Job Description

Further Information: Department Website

Create an email with a link to this vacancy: Create email

Location: About Christchurch

Job Details

Primary Location: NZL-SI-Christchurch

Employment Status: Permanent

Salary Level and Range: Please see information above

Organisation: eResearch Support

Job Function: Software and Applications Programming