Junior Research Officer


Position Purpose: The purpose of this position is to carry out defined objectives in various research
projects as part of the Riddet Institute. The Junior Research Officer will
contribute to the delivery of the research aims of Riddet Institute-funded
projects, investigating the physicochemical, textural, and digestion properties of
food products and developing methodologies related to these aspects.
Department: Riddet Institute
Location: Palmerston North
Reports to: Director, Riddet Institute
Responsible for: Nil.
Delegations: Nil.
Job Title: Junior Research Officer
Key relationships: Internal External
Dr Debashree Roy, Riddet Institute Industry Partners and Clients
Food structure and digestion team
Food Innovation team
Massey University: We are a world-leading university in many academic disciplines and fields of
research. Our point of difference is research that is connected to community and
industry. Our researchers are developing expertise and skills to advance human
knowledge and understanding. Working together across disciplines and
locations, we solve national and global problems through fundamental, applied
and interdisciplinary research, while culturally and artistically enriching our
world.
We are deeply committed to being a Te Tiriti-led university, demonstrating
authentic leadership in contemporary Aotearoa New Zealand as we uphold Te
Tiriti o Waitangi, the founding document of our nation, and its principles through
our practice. We embrace this not just as an obligation but as a real opportunity
for the nation and its people.


Our educators are preparing a new generation of global leaders. Our students
are diverse and are attracted to Massey because they want to achieve their
personal goals or make their mark in the world. They experience world-class
learning that recognises their intellectual and cultural strengths, expands their
horizons and prepares them to contribute to a rapidly transforming world with
skills, critical and creative thinking and leadership.
We will be renowned for our passion and caring attitude. All Massey campuses
will be innovation ecosystems, acting as magnets for smart enterprises.
Wherever we are, we will operate in partnerships founded on respect, trust and
mutual benefit. Massey is not only defined by what we do, but by how we do it.
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About this area The Riddet Institute is a world-best research centre in food and nutritional
sciences, providing fundamental scientific understanding and training for a new
generation of science leaders. The Riddet Institute includes a Centre of Research
Excellence (Co RE) that integrates partner organisations (Massey University
(host), Auckland and Otago Universities, Ag Research and Plant & Food
Research). The Institute leads a “NZ Inc” approach to food research (that
includes sustainable nutrition) and generates knowledge and capability that
transforms the New Zealand food industry.


Massey core capabilities
external stakeholders, giving expression to Tikanga Māori and protocols that demonstrates that we
respect and value Māori conventions in appropriate settings.
wellbeing policies, procedures and programmes; display commitment by actively supporting all safety
and wellbeing initiatives: and by actively engaging in health and safety improvement opportunities.
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Accountabilities

• In collaboration with staff across the Riddet Institute, identifies new

opportunities for delivering food solutions that will grow the NZ economy
and which advance scientific knowledge and theory.

• Displays a collaborative work ethic, including a team approach that draws on

knowledge and capability to deliver best outcomes. Science Excellence • Contributes to the advancement of scientific knowledge and consistently
delivers high quality, relevant research through contribution to co-authored
which extends and promotes personal and Riddet Institute recognition both
nationally and internationally.
Other Projects and • Undertakes other reasonable duties as and when required
Health and Safety • Ensures legislative compliance, (e.g., Department of Labour, HSNO, EPA
Animal and Human Ethics) and appropriate data security.

• Complies with health and safety policies as set by Massey University, and

legislature and at all times, makes safety of themselves and others in the
workplace the priority. Any other duties as required by the Director (or nominee).



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Qualifications and Experience
Qualifications: Relevant degree in food science/technology/engineering/nutrition or related
disciplines
an advantage.

Capabilities - Behaviour
Communication • Excellent oral and written communications skills.
Essential • Understands limits of own authority and knows when to consult or inform
others.
Collaboration • Works effectively with a wide range of people.
collective goals or performance milestones.
Time • Takes responsibility for effective and timely completion of own work.
Management
Essential
Attitude • Behaves in a fair, honest, consistent, and ethical manner

Capabilities - Technical
Technical • Ability to interpret, evaluate and analyse data, information and processes to
solutions
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Pre-employment checks
Pre-employment checks: • Requirement to pass a Qualifications Validation check (if applicable).
Essential • Requirement to pass a Criminal and Traffic convictions (Security) check.



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