The Science Media Centre is looking for a media advisor to join our dedicated team working to improve the reach, relevance and accuracy of news media reporting on science and related topics in Aotearoa New Zealand.
We are an independent centre that reporters and newsrooms rely on whenever science is in the headlines. We provide essential context in plain language and expert contacts for journalists covering health, environment, tech, rural, innovation, social issues, business and other relevant areas.
The role would suit an experienced journalist with a keen interest in how science and research impact the world around us, or an exceptional science communicator with a solid understanding of news media.
Pūtake tūranga | What you will do
As a media advisor with the SMC you will:
- Act as a key link between scientists and journalists—responding to media queries, pitching ideas and identifying science angles in the news cycle.
- Build trusted relationships across the media and research sectors and support scientists to engage confidently with news media.
- Produce timely, high-quality content for the SMC’s digital platforms and channels using strong editorial judgement. Write, edit and publish media releases, research summaries and other material to daily and weekly deadlines.
- Participate in an after-hours media duty roster and travel occasionally within New Zealand.
We work in a fast-paced environment, immersed in a wide range of research topics and responding rapidly to breaking news stories. You’ll need to be able to make sense of essential information on issues you’re encountering for the first time, and proactively identify angles and contacts that will be useful for New Zealand media.
Pukēnga | Skills and experience
To succeed in the role, you’ll need to be a self-starter who enjoys connecting with people, learning new things, working collaboratively and finding creative solutions to barriers. A relevant research qualification, familiarity with academic journal publications or in-depth knowledge of one or more research specialties would be a definite plus. Excellent writing skills are essential.
You’ll ideally bring established networks of contacts in the New Zealand media and/or research sectors to support the work we do. Networks in te ao Māori or among Pacific communities are highly desirable, as is experience of building trusted relationships across different cultural contexts.
We also regularly deliver events, training and professional development for researchers and journalists through our acclaimed Science Media Savvy programme and newsroom workshops. You’ll be an enthusiastic public speaker, contributor and host for a dynamic programme of high-quality events.
In addition to day-to-day operations, there will be ample opportunities to contribute to longer term strategy and guide the future direction of the Centre.
Te Mahi | Job description
This is a full-time permanent position.
Salary range current midpoint: $82,000. The midpoint is reviewed and adjusted annually in line with the applicable Stats NZ Labour Cost Index movement.
The full salary range is 85% – 115% of the midpoint. An expected appointing salary will be up to the midpoint, depending on the skills and experience of the successful candidate.
View full position description: Kaimanaaki Pāpāho Media Adviser[PDF 180.38 kb]
Mō Te Apārangi | About us
The New Zealand Science Media Centre is an editorially independent operational unit within Royal Society Te Apārangi, funded by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE).
More information about the Science Media Centre can be found on our website: www.sciencemediacentre.co.nz
Royal Society Te Apārangi is an independent statutory organisation that advances and promotes the humanities, mātauranga Māori, science and technology in Aotearoa in New Zealand. We do this through research funding, expert advice, practice advice, community outreach and engagement, and rewarding and acknowledging excellence and leadership.
This role reports to the Director—Science Media Centre | Tumu Pāpāho Rau Pūtaiao.
Whakaurua | Apply
To apply, please submit your CV and covering letter to hr@royalsociety.org.nz by 5pm on Rāpare Thursday, 17 Hōngongoi July 2025.
You must be a New Zealand citizen, resident or visa holder eligible to work in New Zealand.
He pātai | Questions?
We don’t expect perfection in our candidates – if you think you may have what it takes, but don’t meet every point referenced above, please still get in touch!
Interested candidates are welcome to contact SMC Director Dacia Herbulock for a confidential conversation ahead of the closing date on +64 21 230 8938.