Academic applicants

The specific information and references you need to supply to substantiate your academic qualifications and experience, and what happens after you apply.

Information you must provide

You must supply contact details for three recent referees who can substantiate your suitability for the position, and the permission to contact them if we choose to. You also need to describe your:

  • academic qualifications
  • present position
  • details of appointments held, with special reference to teaching
  • research experience
  • field in which specially qualified
  • publications, preferably under appropriate headings, for example, books or articles.
  • date on which you can start the role.

After you apply

Shortlisting

After applications close, an initial shortlist is made and written references are requested. Once the written references are received, members of the selection panel review the initial shortlist to confirm a final shortlist for interview based on the reference information.

If you are shortlisted, you will be contacted by phone and/or email to arrange an interview.

Applicants who are not shortlisted are advised as soon as possible by email.

Interviews

The panel

The interview panel is usually made up of between three and six people. Candidates are given information about the panel at the time the interview is arranged.

The University’s interviewing style

The interviewing style is interactive and behaviourally based.

Each panel member has a question or set of questions. The questions will focus on your past experiences in the key areas defined in the role description.

Behavioural interviewing focuses on your past behaviour in actual work or other relevant situations. Your pre-interview preparation should include examples of these situations.

Interview tips

To prepare for the interview:

  • research the school and its teaching and research programmes
  • review your experiences in those areas of teaching and research
  • consider how your skills, experience and qualifications match those required for the position
  • think about the strengths you would bring to the position and to the University
  • find out about the day-to-day aspects of the position.

Overseas candidates

Candidates outside New Zealand are often initially interviewed by conference call. If appropriate, a visit to the University may be arranged.

During the visit, the selection process will usually consist of:

  • a presentation by the candidate
  • a structured interview
  • meetings with key staff in the appropriate school.

Professorial candidates

For professorial vacancies, further interviews and/or activities may be scheduled, and the composition of the interview panel may differ.

Whānau support

If your interview is in person, you can bring along whānau (family) or other support people. Advise the person who arranges the interview if you intend to do this.

Any expenses involved in bringing support persons to an interview are your responsibility.

Further information on the conduct of a whānau support interview should be discussed with the person arranging the interview.

The selection decision

Once interviews are completed, an appointments committee is convened, and the successful candidate is selected. That person will be phoned and offered the position as soon as possible.

The University will go through appropriate pre-employment verification as part of its selection and offer process. You will be kept informed during this process.

Unsuccessful candidates who have been interviewed are advised by phone or email and in writing, as soon as possible after the final decision has been made.