Research Assistant

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences?

At the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS), we work within and beyond the disciplines of engineering and foundational science to address the most pressing issues of our time. Through teaching and collaborative research, SEAS discovers, designs, and creates novel technologies and approaches to societal challenges – in service to the world, the nation, and our community. We collaborate across academic areas at SEAS and the larger university, and with colleagues in academia, industry, government and public service organizations beyond Harvard. By joining SEAS, you will be part of an inclusive community of dedicated problem-solvers who hold themselves – and one another – to the highest academic and professional standards. To learn more about us, please visit https://seas.harvard.edu/.

Job Description

Job Summary:

The Disease Biophysics Group at the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences is seeking a Research Assistant to support its research and day-to-day laboratory operations. Working closely with the lab manager, postdoctoral fellows, and other research staff, the Research Assistant will perform basic laboratory experiments using established techniques and protocols while also helping to maintain an organized and well-functioning laboratory environment.

The Research Assistant will perform routine experimental and laboratory operations activities independently within established guidelines, working closely with the Lab Manager and other research staff and seeking guidance as needed.

This is a one-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of renewal.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

Research and Experimental Support:

• Prepare media and reagent aliquots for cell culture and experimental use.
• Support cell culture activities, including iPSC expansion and maintenance, following established protocols.
• Perform routine laboratory assays using established techniques and equipment, including Western blotting, ELISA, and qPCR.
• Collect and accurately document experimental data and observations.

Laboratory Operations:

• Manage laboratory inventory; receive, store, and organize supplies and restock reagents and other materials as needed.
• Create and maintain accurate inventories of −20°C and −80°C freezers and other laboratory storage areas.
• Conduct routine equipment checks, including monitoring O₂, CO₂, and LN₂ levels and incubator function, and report issues as appropriate.
• Autoclave reagents and equipment and operate the autoclave for sterilization.
• Maintain laboratory organization and perform routine cleaning of laboratory equipment and work areas.
• Assist with laboratory meetings, events, and related logistics.

Working Conditions:

• Work is performed primarily in a laboratory environment.  
• May be required to work with biological materials, chemicals, and other laboratory materials in accordance with established safety procedures.
• This position requires an on-site presence to support laboratory research and operational activities.
• Occasional weekend work may be required. Work schedule options may be discussed during the interview process.

Physical Requirements:

• May be required to lift, move, and transport laboratory supplies and equipment. 

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

• College background or equivalent work experience.
• At least one year of related work experience; relevant coursework may count toward experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor's degree in life sciences or a related field preferred.
• Previous laboratory experience preferred.
• Experience with cell culture, including iPSC culture, and/or molecular biology techniques preferred.
• Demonstrated ability and interest in learning and following established laboratory techniques, protocols, and procedures.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple responsibilities.
• Excellent attention to detail and record keeping.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a collaborative research environment.

Additional Information

• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 standard hours per week. Occasional weekend work may be required. Work schedule options may be discussed during the interview process.
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity and Education
• Other Information:
  • This is a one-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of renewal, contingent upon work performance and continued funding to support the position.

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 052. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information. 

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.