Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity
Join us as a Research Grants and Contracts Intern and gain hands-on experience supporting the drafting, review and processing of research-related contracts that enable world-leading research at Waipapa Taumata Rau | University of Auckland.
This internship offers a unique opportunity to work within a research-intensive environment and learn how universities manage contracts, intellectual property, data, and commercial partnerships. You will be supported by experienced Contract Managers within Te Puna Tiketike | Research and Innovation Office (RIO), with opportunities to observe real-world contracting processes.
We are seeking two part-time Interns, who will have the opportunity to work a maximum of 15 hours per week on a 12-month fixed-term contract.
What you’ll be doing
During your internship, you will:
- Support the drafting and review of research contracts, subcontracts and variations under guidance and supervision
- Assist with preparing documentation for contract processing and financial activation
- Help maintain accurate records of contracts within University systems
- Conduct preliminary analysis of contract clauses and escalate issues to senior staff
- Collaborate with a range of stakeholders, from researchers, FIRST teams and the Research Grants and Contracts team
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the Research Grants and Contracts workflow
- Develop a foundational understanding of Māori data sovereignty and its relevance to contracting
- Observe contract negotiations where appropriate and learn about the broader research and innovation ecosystem
Overall, you will gain practical experience in contract analysis, drafting, and research management within a large, research‑intensive institution.
He kōrero mōu | About you
We’re looking for students who are:
- Currently enrolled in the final year of a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or postgraduate Law programme at the University of Auckland
- Interested in contract law, commercial law, intellectual property, privacy, or public sector contracting
- Strong written communicators with excellent attention to detail
- Able to analyse and interpret legal information, with support
- Organised, reliable and comfortable managing competing priorities
- Keen to learn, ask questions and work collaboratively in a professional environment
Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer
- Flexible working arrangements to support study commitments
- Mentorship from experienced Contract Managers
- Exposure to research funding, university contracting processes and contract lifecycle management
- Opportunities to build employability skills in a supportive learning environment
- A chance to contribute to meaningful research activity across the University
- Salary $56,400 prorata
Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply
Applications should be submitted online, before the closing date of Friday, 20th March 2026 and include a CV and a brief cover letter outlining:
- Your interest in learning more about Grants and Contracts in the Research space at UoA
- Confirming that you are a final year law student or a postgraduate