Scion is a group of the Bioeconomy Science Institute that carries out research for the benefit of New Zealand. Since its origins as the Forest Research Institute in 1947, Scion has created economic value and positive social and environmental outcomes for our communities. Today, we’re focused on helping lead New Zealand’s transition to a circular bioeconomy and achieve a net-zero 2050 and beyond.

Located in Rotorua, Christchurch and Wellington, our people thrive in a working environment that is diverse, empowering, innovative and inclusive.

Benefits of working at Scion

Scion is committed to creating a work environment that is diverse, empowering, innovative and inclusive.

• Read more about the benefits of working at Scion

Our roles

From UAV pilots and engineers to field and laboratory technicians and forest scientists, Scion offers an exciting career that unlocks the power of trees. Together, we are at the forefront of innovation, leading New Zealand’s transition to a circular bioeconomy.

Current vacancies

See our current vacancies, register for upcoming job alerts, or complete an expression of interest on the Science New Zealand website.

Science

Our science capabilities are organised into eight research groups:

• Chemistry and Physics
• Data and Geospatial Intelligence
• Ecology and Environment
• Economy and Society
• Forest Genetics and Biotechnology
• Materials, Engineering and Manufacturing
• Plant Development and Physiology
• Te Ao Māori

From these eight research groups, highly skilled individuals come together on projects across with our three impact areas:

1. Forests and Landscapes
2. Forests to Timber Products
3. Forests to Biobased Products

We call this the matrix structure, and it unlocks opportunities and diversity across your science career.

Apply your expertise to research areas that interest you and develop new skills in fields you may never have explored before.

Corporate

Working as one team, our corporate professionals are considered the enablers of Scion. They are the driving force behind our science research programmes and bring impact out of the lab and into our communities.

Roles include:

• Administration
• Facilities
• Finance
• Information technology
• Innovation
• Knowledge centre
• Legal
• Marketing and communications
• People, culture and safety
• Project management
• Research investments office
• Stores

Students

We run a student summer programme each year that is open to all New Zealand resident students. Please visit Science New Zealand to see what projects are available and to apply.