Scientist

Te tunga | The roleWe are seeking a skilled Scientist for a one-year fixed-term, full-time position based at our forensic laboratories at the Kenepuru Science Centre in Poneke, Wellington.

This role involves conducting chemical and physical analyses of pharmaceutical and pharmaceutical-like samples, drawing on your expertise in method development and validation.

Experience in or understanding of microbiological analyses is beneficial but not essential to this role.In addition to laboratory work, you will contribute to a range of supporting tasks including : Administrative dutiesQuality assurance activitiesTechnical support for day-to-day operationsYou'll be part of an 8-member team within the Forensic Specialised Analytical Services Group, which comprises over 40 professionals.

This team delivers critical services to the Ministry of Health and other clients.Given the bespoke nature of our work, we're looking for flexible individuals who excel in one-off project work, demonstrate strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills, and can work efficiently across a range of simultaneous tasks.Kia angitu koe | About youTo be successful in this role, you will have the following : Undergraduate degree or qualification in chemistry / biochemistry / pharmacology / toxicology or related discipline; or appropriate qualification coupled with extensive postgraduate sector experience.5+ years relevant pharmaceutical laboratory experienceCompetent in the analysis and characterisation and testing of pharmaceutical compounds or similar analysis, including the use of HPLC and / or GC and / or LCMS instrumentation.Relevant experience in a GMP environmentRelevant experience in an ISO / IEC 17025 accredited laboratoryAble to research and review relevant scientific literatureExcellent written and oral communication skillsComputer skills required e.g. MS Office, Chromeleon, LabSolutionsAttention to detail is essentialAble to communicate effectively with a wide range of people.Awareness of Te Tiriti obligationsAble to work as a member of a team, supportive of other team members and focussed on achieving team objectivesBenefitsFlexible working options to support balancing work and non-work commitments.Four weeks annual leave, plus two additional annual leave days and three additional PHF Science days (usually the three days between Christmas and New Year\u2019s Eve)15 days sick leave and service leave provisions after five yearsAnnual volunteer day to support an organisation or issue you care about in the community.Free annual flu vaccinationsLife insurance and physical loss benefitSubsidised Southern Cross insurance & access to special retail discounts.Access to Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), a confidential and free counselling service.Salary starts at gross $89,387 and with multiple years of experience can be up to $96,634 / annumM4d m01tou | About UsEstablished in 2025, formerly ESR, PHF Science is a New Zealand Government-owned research organisation dedicated to the health, wellbeing, and safety of our communities.

Specialising in public health and forensic sciences, we monitor disease, help ensure safe food and water, reduce harm from drugs, support the justice system and more.

Our science powers innovations and solutions to help New Zealand prosper and grow.With 4 locations across Aotearoa New Zealand from Auckland to Christchurch and Wellington (Kenepuru and Wallaceville), we use world-leading science to monitor disease, test food, and products, safeguard our water, and support the justice sector.

By joining forces with experts and iwi, we're tackling critical issues to ensure a better Aotearoa New Zealand for all.PHF Science's Pharmaceutical Programme provides independent analytical services to clients from a range of sectors including local manufacturers and importers, biotechnology companies, and government clients.

We perform chemical, physical, and microbiological testing of medicines, cosmetics, natural health and other pharmaceutical-like products, and we provide a secure, dedicated Stability Facility for product stability storage and testing of expiration dates.

We are the primary provider of therapeutic product testing for the Ministry of Health (Medsafe) as part of its role in the continuous monitoring of the safety of medicines on the New Zealand market.PHF Science's Pharmaceutical Programme is certified by the Ministry of Health (Medsafe) in compliance with the New Zealand Code of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and the international Pharmaceutical Inspection Co-operation Scheme (PIC / S), and operates laboratories accredited by International Accreditation New Zealand to ISO / IEC 17025.We are an accredited Living Wage employer and value our people, providing excellent environment for fostering and developing our people in a values-driven, flexible, and ever evolving landscape.

We are committed to sustainability and are proud to have received our Toitu Carbonreduce Certification.PHF Science is an Accredited Employer, able to obtain the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).

Tono mai | Apply NowWe encourage applications from those with an understanding of or a willingness to develop their capability in Te Tiriti o Waitangi, tikanga Maori, and / or te reo Maori.If you would like to request a full position description, please get in touch withApplications close 8am on Sunday 28 September 2025Click apply to submit your application.

Please ensure you upload a cover letter and CV, outlining your interest and relevant skills for this opportunity.We will be back in touch once advertising closes and applications have been reviewed.Health, Safety and WellbeingAt PHF Science, the health, safety, and wellbeing of our people is our highest priority.

Depending on the role and exposure risks, mandatory vaccinations may include Tetanus, Typhoid, Meningococcal, Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B, and Polio.

In some roles you may need to confirm your vaccination status in accordance with health and safety advice before you commence employment.

Participation in PHF Science's vaccination programme is a condition of employment for new staff.

We choose to share this information early in our hiring process so candidates can make an informed choice and are happy to discuss further at interview stage if you have any questions.PHF Science is an equal opportunity employer and committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion.

Your unique talents and experience will help us deliver exceptional services to New Zealand.

We look forward to your application.Please note the successful applicant will be required to complete a pre-employment drug-screen, ID verification, and police records check as well as a colour-blindness / eye appearance test as conditions of employment.

#J-18808-Ljbffr