Postdoctoral Fellow - Health and Ageing Research Team (HART) Palmerston North

Postdoctoral Fellow – Health and Ageing Research Team (HART)
Location: Manawatū Campus, Palmerston North
Salary Range: $83,201 – $100,438 per annum

Massey University’s School of Psychology is seeking a motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to join the Health and Ageing Research Team (HART). You will contribute to the externally funded project “Modifiable Pathways to Sustainable Ageing in Aotearoa”, which builds evidence to promote independence and prevent frailty among New Zealand’s older adults.

The project draws on the Health, Work and Retirement (HWR) longitudinal study (2006– 2024), combining life course histories, cognitive and physical assessments, and linked administrative records. Our research aims to strengthen the human, social, and financial resources that lead to better health and social outcomes for this population. Expert Māori leadership prioritises Mātauranga Māori throughout this research programme, with Māori participation ensured through oversampling in the longitudinal cohort. The postdoctoral fellow will use their skills and expertise to develop and implement a programme of research utilising the large HWR cohort of older Māori.

What we are looking for

• A completed (or near completion) PhD in Psychology, Gerontology, Public Health, Māori Studies, Epidemiology, or a related discipline.

• Strong skills in longitudinal data analysis and a record of scholarly publications.

• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team.

• A commitment to Tiriti-led research and the ability to engage respectfully with Māori communities.

We warmly welcome applications from Māori researchers and those with strong grounding in te ao Māori.

Why join us?

This is a three-year fixed-term opportunity to make a meaningful impact on ageing research in Aotearoa New Zealand, while advancing your own academic career through high-quality publications and collaborative projects.

As a Massey staff member, you will also enjoy access to:

• Flexible work options and a healthy work-life balance.

• Five university holidays per year in addition to annual leave.

• Subsidised Southern Cross healthcare insurance.

• Staff study benefits and career development opportunities.

• Discounted memberships to campus gyms and recreation centres across our three campuses.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted online via the Massey University application portal.

Please include a CV, cover letter, and contact details for at least three referees.

Email applications will not be accepted.

Applications close Monday 20 October 2025, 9.30am.

Enquiries about the position are welcome and should be directed to the project leaders:

• Professor Fiona Alpass – F.M.Alpass@massey.ac.nz

• Dr Brendan Stevenson – B.S.Stevenson@massey.ac.nz