Science jobs
New Zealand is home to a number of internationally-renowned research institutions.
We compete globally in many fields including agricultural biotechnology, genomics, biopharmaceuticals, diagnostics, nutraceuticals and more.
Global impact
There’s no shortage of world-leading science and research initiatives going on here. Amongst other advances, they’ve led to:

- Smart healing gels that will improve the healing process of patients recovering from sinus surgery.
- A digital soil map that farmers and land managers can use to get a better understanding of the soils they're working with.
- An innovative new social app that helps people make positive lifestyle changes.
- 'Healthbots' - robotic companions that provide cost effective care and entertainment for older people (an international collaboration with South Korea).
- A new type of GPS tracking system that will revolutionize the conservation of native birds and endangered animals.
- New 'green' power technologies.
New Zealand researchers are well integrated into global networks. In 2012, the OECD noted that 50% of their scientific articles and 20% of their PCT patent applications were produced with international collaboration.
Science, Technology & Innovation | OECD (PDF 167KB)
Interested in coming to New Zealand?
Take the first step to a new life by registering your interest with Immigration New Zealand. We’ll send you personalised emails about job opportunities in your profession, life in New Zealand and choosing the right visa.
It’s free and there’s no obligation.Employment opportunities
You can visit the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) website for an overview of the sector.
The best employment opportunities are in applied scientific research, on projects likely to have a practical outcome that will directly benefit the economy.
Because the New Zealand economy is somewhat dependent on primary industries such as agriculture and forestry, a lot of scientific research is focused on these industries.
We need scientists more who specialise in agricultural and forestry research and development.
Is your profession on the green list?
There are science roles currently on INZ's fast-tracked Residency Green list
The Green List | Immigration New Zealand
Job sites to explore
- Careers | Science New Zealand - jobs at our Crown Research Institutes
- Find Jobs in New Zealand | Workhere - a site specifically designed to connect NZ employers with talent based offshore
- Job search | Seek- NZ's largest general job website
- Search for jobs | Trade Me - NZ’s most popular website with a large job section
- Job vacancy and recruitment websites | careers.govt.nz
Government strategy
In October 2015, the government launched the National Statement of Science Investment (NSSI).
The plan aims to:
- Grow business expenditure on Research and Development to 1% of GDP by 2025
- Grow government's investment in science to 0.8% of GDP
- Further develop the cross-disciplinary action to tackle the country's biggest science-based issues
- Provide greater support to international collaborations.
National Statement of Science Investment | Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment
