Research Assistant I - Lab

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 Harvard Medical School?

Harvard Medical School's mission is to nurture a diverse, inclusive community dedicated to alleviating suffering and improving health and well-being for all through excellence in teaching and learning, discovery and scholarship, and service and leadership.

You’ll be at the heart of biomedical discovery, education, and innovation, working alongside world-renowned faculty and a community dedicated to improving human health. This is more than a job - it’s an opportunity to shape the future of medicine.

We are seeking a Research Assistant for our MUPPETS project, which aims to develop methods for preserving pathogens for research. In addition, this position will aim in related projects with the CDC and commercial entities around pandemic preparedness and diagnostic development. This position will support lab projects including (1) maintaining and propagating 100s of pathogens (bacteria, fungal, and viral); (2) perform high throughput viability testing; (3) cell culture work; (4) utilizing various equipment such as qPCR and robotics (not a prerequisite skill); and (5) performing molecular biology lab techniques.

The RA will participate in group meetings and collaborate in writing papers and reports to funding agencies. They will attend seminar series within HMS and take part in the scientific and intellectual life of the lab, Harvard Medical School, and the broader MUPPETS team. Strong applicants should be self-motivated and equally adept working independently and bringing their skills to a collaborative and conscientious multidisciplinary team.

This is an exciting position for a recent graduate who wishes to explore the interface between academic research and industrial-scale solutions for global problems. The successful candidate will receive training in robotics, safety, and experimental design.  

Basic Qualifications: College background or equivalent work experience. At least one-year related work experience (relevant course work may count towards experience).

Additional Qualifications and Skills: High level of reliability and organization.

• Term: This is a 6-month term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance and continued funding to support the position. 
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 40 hrs. per week | Monday - Friday | 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity 
• Other Information: Please note that we are currently conducting a majority of interviews and onboarding remotely and virtually. We appreciate your understanding.

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Work Format Details

This position is based on-site at a Harvard campus location. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. 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, sex, ethnicity, color, national origin, 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.