Research project manager

Research Project Manager (3 year fixed-term) Join to apply for the Research Project Manager (3 year fixed-term) role at Auckland University of Technology (AUT) Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity The Faculty of Design and Creative Technologies (DCT) is one of AUT’s largest and most research-focused faculties. We are seeking a Research Project Manager (three-year fixed term) to provide specialist expertise and high-level project management support to academic staff across DCT. In this role, you will help drive the faculty’s research ambitions by strengthening research performance, enhancing outcomes, and ensuring effective management of externally funded research projects. You will also play a key role in supporting the Associate Dean of Research, the Faculty Research Office, and the DCT Head of Finance. This includes guiding staff through research processes and systems to ensure the smooth, efficient, and effective operation of the Faculty Research Office. Ngā haepapa matua | Key Responsibilities Providing project coordination/management, direction, and leadership from conception to completion of projects Leading the development, effective implementation, and monitoring of integrated and robust research quality processes and systems. Leading/navigating initial external research project set-up and any on-going tasks (e.g., Scholarships, recruitment, travel, policies/procedures etc.) Taking the lead in liaising with the DCT Finance Manager to ensure timely and desired financial outcomes across externally funded Faculty projects Ensuring that project budgets are accurate and aligned with expectations Training PIs on managing their external projects (both financial and from a project management perspective) Leading the regular monitoring of project financial reports to track actual vs budget variances Ko wai koe | About you You are an experienced project manager with a strong record of leading complex initiatives and delivering successful outcomes. You excel in dynamic environments, combining strategic insight with practical execution. With excellent cultural competence, strong negotiation skills, and the ability to build trusted relationships, you are driven by achieving results that benefit researchers, partners, and the wider university community. The Ideal Candidate Will 10+ years of experience in research management strategy, project leadership, funding acquisition, financial oversight, reporting, and stakeholder engagement. Proficiency with project management tools such as MS Project, Monday.com, and/or Trello. Strong financial acumen and confidence in managing budgets and reporting. Experience in research management and administration, or similar application and compliance processes. Ngā Huanga | Benefits Professional development Generous leave allowances Flexible and hybrid working options At AUT, we offer a genuine work-life balance with flexible working arrangements. Free gym membership. Continuous professional development and career growth opportunities. If you're ready to take on a role in a strategic cloud environment and contribute to a university making a real impact, we’d love to hear from you. Reference: 93938 Closing date: 8 December 2025, 11:55 pm Full-time denotes 37.5 hours per week At AUT we strive to be a place where people love to work and learn. We are committed to te Tiriti, excellence and inclusivity and aspire to be the University of choice for Māori and Pacific communities. We welcome people of all ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, religious and political beliefs, socio-economic situations and accessibility needs. Please note that all applications must be submitted through the online application process. For further information, please send us an enquiry here or call 921 9499. You will need to apply through the standard registration process. #J-18808-Ljbffr