Te tūnga | The role

We have a full-time, 1-year fixed term opportunity for an Environmental Epidemiologist and Modeller to join our Health Security Group, based at our Christchurch Science Centre. 

In this role, you will provide scientific leadership in the analysis, interpretation and modelling of environmental and health data to inform public health, environmental policy and risk management. Working across groundwater, environmental health, food safety and health security programmes, you will integrate environmental exposure information with health outcomes to identify emerging risks, evaluate interventions and support evidence-based decision-making.

You will design and conduct environmental epidemiology studies, analyse relationships between environmental and climate-related exposures and human health outcomes, and contribute to environmental health surveillance programmes. The role involves working with large and complex environmental, demographic and health datasets, developing statistical, spatial and predictive models, and translating scientific evidence into practical solutions for stakeholders and decision-makers.

You will also contribute to nationally significant research programmes, publish findings in peer-reviewed journals, develop research proposals, collaborate with government agencies, universities and international partners, and present scientific findings at national and international forums. 

This is an opportunity to apply innovative epidemiological and analytical approaches to some of New Zealand’s most important environmental and public health challenges.

Kia angitu koe | About you

To be successful in this role, you will bring a combination of the following:

• A postgraduate qualification (Master's or preferably PhD) in Epidemiology, Public Health, Environmental Health, Biostatistics, Statistics, Data Science or a related discipline.

• Demonstrated experience designing and conducting epidemiological or environmental health research.

• Experience analysing and integrating large and complex environmental and health datasets.

• Strong statistical, quantitative and analytical skills.

• Proficiency in R and experience developing reproducible analytical workflows.

• Experience preparing scientific publications, technical reports and presentations for a range of audiences.

• The ability to translate scientific evidence into policy, practice and decision-making.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• The ability to work collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams and build effective partnerships with stakeholders.

The following would be advantageous:

• A PhD in a relevant discipline.

• Experience in environmental exposure modelling or risk assessment.

• Experience with machine learning or AI-enabled analytical approaches.

• Experience using Python, SQL and GIS software.

• A track record of publishing peer-reviewed scientific papers and contributing to externally funded research programmes.

• Experience supervising students or early-career researchers.

This role suits a scientist passionate about understanding the complex interactions between environmental exposures and human health and who enjoys applying innovative analytical approaches to deliver meaningful public health and environmental outcomes.

Ngā painga | The benefits

• Flexible 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’s Eve)
• 15 days sick leave and service leave provisions after five years
• Annual volunteer day to support an organisation or issue you care about in the community.
• Free annual flu vaccinations
• Life insurance and physical loss benefit
• Subsidised Southern Cross insurance & access to special retail discounts.
• Access to Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), a confidential and free counselling service.

Mō mātou | About Us

Established 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.

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 Toitū Carbonreduce Certification.

Tono mai | Apply Now

We encourage applications from those with an understanding of or a willingness to develop their capability in Te Tiriti o Waitangi, tikanga Māori, and/or te reo Māori.

If you would like to request a full position description, please get in touch with recruitment@phfscience.nz

Applications close 12pm on Friday 27th November 2026

Click 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 Wellbeing

At 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.

If you don't meet every requirement in this position description, please don't exclude yourself. Studies indicate that women and other individuals from under-represented groups often only apply when they satisfy all the criteria. We focus on recruiting individuals who share our core values of Mahi Rangatira (Our quality counts), Mahi tahi (our team spirit), Mahi Auaha (we push boundaries), Mahi Pono (we do the right thing). If these values resonate with you, we encourage you to submit your application.

PHF Science is committed to developing a diverse, inclusive, equitable workplace where people feel they belong. We believe this is the right thing to do, but we also believe it is a worthwhile commitment that makes our organisation stronger and more capable through building on our diversity of thinking, enabling us to better understand the needs of our stakeholders and people and respond effectively to them. An inclusive environment means the diverse perspectives we have are more likely to be expressed, heard, and acted on.

Please note the successful applicant will be required to complete a pre-employment drug-screen and police records check as conditions of employment.

Applications Close: