Research Fellow - Physics - 24 month fixed term

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

Applications are invited for a Research Fellow (postdoctoral) position in theoretical cosmology at the University of Auckland. This is a two-year appointment, commencing September 2026 (or as otherwise negotiated).

The ideal candidate will be interested in both numerical and analytical investigations of astrophysical and cosmological dynamics.

This grant-supported role centres on the analysis of Schrödinger–Poisson matter, both in the present epoch (e.g., ultralight dark matter) and in the post-inflationary universe, with an emphasis on connecting theoretical models to potential observational signatures.

The successful appointee will work closely with Prof. Richard Easther and the wider “New Zealand Gravity” team, which supports gravitational-wave science and is expanding to include local affiliates of the Vera Rubin Observatory. This national collaboration links topics ranging from early-universe cosmology through to small bodies in the solar system and includes a vibrant astrostatistics community.

For more information on our research, see cosmology.auckland.ac.nz and gravity.ac.nz

For more information on the role, please view the Position Description

This is a full-time (40 hrs per week), 24-month fixed-term role

The remuneration is from $99,788 per annum, and will be dependent on skills and experience

He kōrero mōu | About you

We are seeking applicants who have:

Essential

• PhD in physics, astronomy, astrophysics, or a closely related field (with research focus in cosmology).
• Familiarity with theoretical cosmology.
• Experience using computational simulation methods in cosmology.
• Demonstrated specialist knowledge in high-performance computing (HPC).
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a research team.
• Ability to interpret research data and relate findings to existing literature.
• Strong planning, reporting, and time-management skills.

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 rated as one of 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.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Applications must be submitted online, by the closing date of 15th January 2026 to be considered.

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

** Important Notice – Our Holiday Close-Down Period**

Our recruitment team will be on break from 22nd December 2025 to 5thJanuary 2026. During this time, applications will be received as normal; however, they will not be actively reviewed or processed until we return.

We sincerely appreciate your interest in joining Waipapa Taumata Rau – The University of Auckland, and we wish you a safe and enjoyable holiday season.