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Research at Victoria University of Wellington

As New Zealand’s number one university for intensity of high-quality research (2018 Performance-Based Research Fund), we are committed to research excellence and work that will have a positive impact.

Science student Malaghan using electron microscope

Research impact

Our researchers are passionate about finding solutions to some of the world’s biggest problems. Their contributions have impact—translating into real improvements for local, national and global communities.

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Research news and commentary

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Areas of research strength

Our researchers work at the forefront of significant areas across a variety of disciplines. These research strengths are the foundation of our international reputation.

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Study with us

Explore a topic you’re passionate about, create new knowledge and become an expert in your research area with a PhD, professional doctorate or Master’s by research.

We offer a research environment with highly experienced and engaged supervisors and with extensive connections to industry, government and communities.

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Partner with us

At Victoria University of Wellington we are committed to research that will have an impact in the real world. We work with businesses, organisations and entrepreneurs on

Organisations across a diverse range of industries and communities have benefited from our research. Let us help you to make a difference.

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Engage with our students

Our students shine in whatever capacity you engage with them. There are many ways that our talented students and graduates can add value to your organisation.

Discover how you can collaborate with research students, on work placements, internships, short-term projects and student or graduate employment.

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Support for researchers

Victoria University of Wellington’s Research Office provides professional research support services, including help with research grants, development, ethics, policy, per

It provides advice for new researchers, information on Māori research practices, commercialisation and research administration.

Research support

Find a researcher

Hunter building on Kelburn campus in Wellington.

Centres, institutes and chairs

Our research centres, institutes and chairs are having a wide-reaching impact in their specialist areas. Their links to industry and government allow our academics to conduct relevant and effective research.

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Featured researchers

Bing Xue.

The feature attraction

Bing Xue uses evolutionary computation to help us make sense of the larger picture in areas such as biomedical sciences and aquaculture.
Dr Van Jackson, School of History, Philosophy, Political Science and International Relations.

The foreign policy ‘hustler’

An expert in politics and security in the Asia–Pacific, Van Jackson has been an adviser to the US government and now shares his insights with the world.
Dr Catherine Trundle siting on an orange chair in the corner of a room, with walls that display framed pictures.

Voices missing from the debate

Socially engaged research is important to anthropologist Catherine Trundle, who is currently exploring the effect of the housing crisis on women.
Meet our researchers

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