Job Information
Harvard University Research Associate in Cambridge, Massachusetts
66067BRAuto req ID:66067BRJob Code:RS0055 Researcher I Humanities Department Office Location:USA - MA - Boston Business Title:Research AssociateSub-Unit:------------ Appointment End Date:30-Jun-2025Salary Grade (https://hr.harvard.edu/salary-ranges#ranges) :055Time Status:Part-time Union:00 - Non Union, Exempt or Temporary Basic Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree required.
Evidence of outstanding academic achievement and excellent writing and editing skills. Indication of independent research experience and/or applied experience.
Proven ability to work independently and creatively. Strong skills related to the Microsoft Office Suite are expected.
Additional Qualifications and Skills:Ability to build personal connections and act as a node in the HBS space network.
Ability to read academic, subject-specific information and write a reasoned and thoughtful analysis necessary. Background in analysis and interpretation of relevant data, research, news, and literature is necessary. Evidence of prior high-quality, original academic writing required.
This position requires an individual capable of consistent use of discretion, judgment, and initiative. The candidate must have extremely high standards in terms of quality of work, attention to detail, strong organization skills, and absolute commitment to task completion. He or she must be able to balance multiple tasks and shifting priorities under tight deadlines at an accelerated pace when necessary. It is helpful if the candidate is familiar with navigating a complex organization, such as Harvard Business School.Additional Information:This is a part-time term appointment starting this summer through June 30, 2025, with potential for re-appointment for the following year. All HBS RA roles are structured as one-year appointments.
This is a hybrid position which we consider to be a combination of remote and onsite work at our Boston, MA based campus. HBS expects all staff to be onsite 3 days per week and departments provide onsite coverage Monday – Friday. Specific hours and days onsite will be determined by business needs and are subject to change with appropriate advanced notice.
We may conduct candidate interviews virtually (phone and/or via Zoom) and/or in-person for this role.
A cover letter is required to be considered for this opportunity. All candidates will be expected to submit a writing sample, and transcript.
Harvard Business School will not offer visa sponsorship for this opportunity.
Culture of Inclusion: The work and well-being of HBS is profoundly strengthened by the diversity of our network and our differences in background, culture, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, and life experiences. Explore HBS work culture at https://www.hbs.edu/employment/.Department:Division of Research and Faculty DevelopmentPre-Employment Screening:Education, IdentityJob Function:Research Position Description:Harvard Business School Professor Matthew Weinzierl seeks a Research Associate (RA) to partner with him for one year or more, beginning this summer, on research projects related to the business and economics of the space sector. Research topics will range broadly and include the business strategies of leading space companies, potential drivers of economic demand in space, and the proper policy responses to the rapid evolution of the sector. This position is ideal for someone with some experience in the commercial space sector or space policy, and it will provide a strong foundation of experience, connections, and knowledge for those looking to make their careers in the sector.
Under the general direction of Professor Weinzierl, the RA will identify and explore a wide-range of questions; provide subject-area knowledge, analysis, and interpretation to the faculty member. The RA position reports directly to the faculty supervisor and the administrative manager in the Research Staff Services office. Ideal RA candidates will be comfortable in an environment that requires a high level of independence, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to use discretionary judgment.
Primary duties:
Conduct background research; gather, analyze, edit and draft all forms of academic writing including but not limited to, cases and articles, case supplements, project reports, and policy memos; create original writing based on research and interviews.
Provide analysis, editing, and drafts for academic journal articles, HBS cases and HBS teaching notes. Develop, synthesize and provide analysis of literature reviews.
Support the hosting of multiple high-profile space sector leaders as classroom guests, including briefings on course material, personal interaction during the visit, logistical arrangements, and general problem solving.
Nurture and build the HBS space network with targeted communications, interactions with student and alumni clubs, meetings with peer institutions, and ad hoc advice to students seeking space-based careers.
Read and efficiently distill information to identify key themes and important areas, which will elicit further research needs.
Independently manage all timelines and deliverables for multiple projects. Exercise independent decision making with regard to progression of research project and methodologies. Must be able to structure assignments and keep faculty member informed as necessary, using own judgment.
Ensure compliance with department, University, and federal regulations. Complete work with only general direction. Be aware of department, School, University policies and potential outside research policies.
Responsible for other duties as assigned.
School/Unit:Harvard Business School EEO Statement:We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging:Harvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.Benefits:We invite you to visit Harvard's Total Rewards website (https://hr.harvard.edu/totalrewards) to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:
Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.
Work Format:Hybrid (partially on-site, partially remote) LinkedIn Recruiter Tag (for internal use only):#LI-KD1About Us:Founded in 1908 as part of Harvard University, Harvard Business School (www.hbs.edu) is located on a 40-acre campus in Boston. The School offers two full-time MBA and PhD programs, more than 175 Executive Education programs, and certificates and courses through Harvard Business School Online. For more than a century, Harvard Business School faculty have drawn on their research, connection to practice, global expertise, and passion for teaching to educate leaders who make a difference in the world. The School and its curriculum attract the boldest thinkers and the most collaborative learners who will shape the practice of business and entrepreneurship around the globe.