Kairuruku | Research Fellow in HTS Motors

• Are you a high-achieving engineer interested in working on rotating machines, magnetic levitation, magnet systems and brushless exciters?
• Do you have a passion for contributing to cutting-edge research in High Temperature Superconductors (HTS)?
• Can you demonstrate experience carrying out complex theoretical and/or experimental projects?

Kōrero mō te tūranga - About the role

Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington is currently recruiting for a Kairuruku - Research Fellow in HTS Motors to join Paihau - Robinson Research Institute on a 2-year fixed-term, full-time basis.

This role is based at our Gracefield Research Centre in Lower Hutt, New Zealand.

Paihau - Robinson Research Institute has an international reputation for superconducting engineering, materials physics and manufacturing engineering. We offer a unique opportunity for a high-achieving engineer to work alongside some of New Zealand’s top research scientists and engineers contribute to cutting-edge research in High Temperature Superconductors (HTS). Our work encompasses discovery science through to commercial implementation.

The role requires an understanding of underlying superconducting physics, the ability to conduct electromagnetic simulations, and the capability to produce complex designs specifically for cryogenic environments. By modifying existing designs, developing new approaches and utilising our expertise, the aim will be testing of the flux pump in-situ within a working rotor. Therefore, the position will require groundbreaking research, practical experimental skills and pragmatic problem-solving to overcome the range of real-world challenges.

Ō pūmanawa - About you

We are seeking an early career post-doctoral engineer to work on a number of applied HTS engineering programmes in rotating machines, magnetic levitation, magnet systems and brushless exciters. The successful applicant will contribute to a range of applied projects, working closely with our international and domestic research partners.

Key requirements:

• Postgraduate engineering qualification in a relevant field.
• Proven experience in carrying out complex theoretical and/or experimental projects.
• Plans and manages own work effectively and assists others.
• Consistently delivers agreed outputs to a professional standard.

Desirable:

• Experience in electromagnetic modelling techniques such as LTSpice, Simulink/Simscape or PLECS.
• Proven capability in CAD.
• Experience in using finite element techniques particularly COMSOL.
• Knowledge of electromagnetism, superconductors and applied superconductivity.
• Publication track record in peer-reviewed journals.
• A strong motivation to rapidly design and deliver.
• Experience in operating cryogenic and/or vacuum systems.

If this link is not available, click 'apply' to view this on the University careers page.

Close date for vacancy: 06 October 2026.

Contact details for vacancy: If you have any questions regarding this role please get in touch with Jeannie Redman, Institute Manager ([email protected]).

How to apply: Please ensure you are applying for this role directly on our careers page and not via email. Candidates must submit supporting documents along with their resume, such as a cover letter. Applicants who do not have residency or citizenship and require a visa to work at the University must clearly indicate their visa status in their application.