Senior Lecturer or Associate Professor in Sport Coaching

• Shape the future of sport coaching and leadership in Aotearoa through research, teaching, and innovation.
• Are you an accomplished scholar and educator in sport coaching who is passionate about inspiring future coaches, advancing knowledge, and leading impactful research?
• This is a unique opportunity to join the School of Sport and Human Movement at the University of Waikato and help strengthen its national and international reputation as one of the world's top-ranked sport schools.

Ngā kōrero mō te tūranga – About the role

We are seeking an outstanding academic to contribute to teaching, research, and leadership within the Sport Development and Coaching major, as well as to broader interdisciplinary collaborations across the School of Sport and Human Movement.

The appointee will contribute to teaching and supervision at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, lead and support research aligned with sport coaching, and engage in professional and community partnerships that enhance sport development across Aotearoa and beyond. Depending on experience and qualifications, the position will be appointed at either Senior Lecturer or Associate Professor level.

The successful candidate will:

• Contribute to high-quality, research-informed teaching in sport coaching. A second discipline in areas such as sport psychology, sport sociology, performance analysis, strength and conditioning, athlete wellbeing, or leadership in sport would be advantageous.
• Maintain an active research profile, publishing in reputable journals, securing research funding, and mentoring postgraduate students.
• Provide academic leadership and mentorship to colleagues, supporting the growth of research and teaching excellence within the School.
• Build partnerships with sport organisations, community groups, and national bodies to support knowledge exchange and real-world impact.

This is a continuing, full-time role based at our Hamilton campus, with teaching and research activities that may extend to Tauranga. Salary will be in the range of $129,718 to $161, 729 per year based on skills, knowledge and experience brought to the position. Please see the linked position descriptions  Senior Lecturer or Associate Professor for more information.

All applications must be submitted through the online portal, emailed applications will not be accepted.

Ko wai koe? – Who are you?

You will hold a PhD in Sport Coaching or a closely related discipline and bring a strong record of excellence in teaching, research, and supervision.

For appointment at Senior Lecturer level, you will demonstrate:

• Proven tertiary-level teaching experience in sport coaching or related areas.
• An established record of research publications and emerging success in research funding.
• A commitment to high-quality student engagement, curriculum development, and innovation in teaching methods.
• Ability to contribute to postgraduate supervision and interdisciplinary collaborations.

For appointment at Associate Professor level, you will demonstrate:

• A sustained record of research excellence and recognised contributions to the academic field at national and international levels.
• Leadership in curriculum design, academic mentorship, and the development of research teams.
• Success in attracting external research funding and leading postgraduate supervision.
• Evidence of significant academic or professional service and engagement with sport or community organisations.

Across both levels, you will be recognised for your ability to inspire students, foster collaboration, and integrate Te Tiriti o Waitangi, cultural safety, and inclusion into teaching, research, and leadership practice.

Ko wai mātou? – Who are we? 

The Division of Health at the University of Waikato is dedicated to improving health and wellbeing outcomes across Aotearoa. Our programmes span Biomedical Sciences, Health Promotion, Human Performance Science, Midwifery, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Sport Development and Coaching.

The School of Sport and Human Movement combines expertise in human performance, coaching, health, and wellbeing. Ranked among the top 100 in the world for sport, the School delivers innovative programmes across undergraduate and postgraduate levels and collaborates with national and international partners to advance sport science, coaching, and athlete development.

Our mission is to deliver teaching and research that leads to better and fairer outcomes in sport and health, combining Western science and mātauranga Māori to create a holistic and culturally grounded approach to human performance.

He aha ngā take me tono mai ai koe? – Why should you apply for this position?

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of Aotearoa's newest health education and research ecosystem. You will play a key role in creating the technical infrastructure and operational systems that enable innovative, equitable, and sustainable health education for the future.

At the University of Waikato, we value integrity, creativity, diversity, and our enduring partnership with Māori. We are committed to a workplace that is inclusive and mana-enhancing, and we welcome applications from candidates with the skills, authority, and vision to help us achieve our goals.

Our rankings reflect these strengths. Working with us means you'll enjoy a satisfying work environment with many benefits.

The University of Waikato is distinctive for the diversity of its staff and students and encourages applicants with the relevant capabilities from all backgrounds to apply. Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in NZ in accordance with the NZ Immigration regulations which can be found here. 

Ko te Tangata – For the People

The University of Waikato prides itself on the quality of its engagement with the communities that it serves, the provision of a world-class education and the national and international impact of its research. Our policies are guided by the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity for all. 

E herea ana te Whare Wānanga ki te kaupapa kia whakaratohia te mea angitū ōrite ki ngā tāngata katoa.

Applications Close on January 18, 2026

Requisition number: 1003196