Writer and Research Assistant

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 Kennedy School?

The John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University is one 12 graduate and professional schools at the university. Harvard Kennedy School’s mission is to improve public policy and leadership so people can live in societies that are more safe, free, just, and sustainably prosperous. By combining cutting-edge research, the teaching of outstanding students, and direct interaction with practitioners, we have an impact on solving public problems that no other institution can match. When you work at Harvard Kennedy School, you make a difference.

The Writer and Research Assistant provides high-level writing support and research for Harvard Kennedy School’s Office of Communications and Public Affairs. They will write compelling content for a broad range of platforms, including for the HKS website, the press, social media, the HKS newsletter, print and online publications, internal platforms, and event coverage. This person will conduct thorough research and reporting and prepare long-and short-form editorial pieces, social media content and video scripts, press releases, talking points, and more. They will also edit and proofread the work of others.  

This role requires proactive anticipation of information needs, independent work across multiple units, and effective synthesis and development of information. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, with quick turnaround times, working in a large decentralized environment. In addition, the candidate should demonstrate curiosity, a willingness to learn new technologies and platforms, and a collaborative spirit when engaging in project work with a range of creative partners. The candidate will report to the Senior Director of Communications. 

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

Write compelling content for the press, web, and various media channels, demonstrating skill with a range of writing styles and communications vehicles. 

Experience writing for the web, including experience with a CMS, writing for SEO, and web writing best practices. 

Identify, develop, and pursue storytelling opportunities (independently or in collaboration with creative colleagues). 

Conduct background research and prepare reports and summaries. 

Draft or revise/edit talking points and other written documents tailored to different contexts and audiences, ensuring accuracy and relevance. 

Work with a sense of urgency and responsibility to meet deadlines and deliver high-quality, accurate content and materials in a timely manner.

Handle confidential data with utmost discretion and maintain high levels of confidentiality.

Cover the John F. Kennedy Jr. Forum events, the school’s flagship speaker series, as well as other HKS events throughout the academic year.  Note: the Forum events are typically in the evenings, so this role will require the flexibility to work some nights and evenings during the academic year. 

Basic Qualifications:  Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of three years of related experience in writing. Relevant internships will count towards experience. 

Important Application Instructions: Please submit a resume, cover letter, and two writing samples.  You can submit your cover letter and samples as attachments.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.  
• Demonstrated collaborative style with wide range of stakeholders.
• Strong time-management and organizational skills and ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously, while maintaining attention to detail required.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, take initiative, and work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Attention to detail and ability to synthesize complex information accurately and compellingly. 
• Discretion and ability to handle confidential information and data.
• Proactive mindset and ability to anticipate information needs.
• Proficiency in gathering and analyzing data from multiple sources. 
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Interest in the work of public policy or academia, while not essential, is an additional plus. 
• Knowledge of editorial styles guides is a plus but not required. Knowledge of grammar and style rules. 

• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education
• Other Information: The interview process will include research and writing exercises. Applicants are required to submit two writing samples. 

Work Format Details

This is a position that is based at a Harvard campus location with some remote work options available. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. All remote work must be performed within one of the Harvard Registered Payroll States, which currently includes Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Virginia, Washington, and California (CA for exempt positions only). Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment. 

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 056. 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.