The Research Associate (RA) reports directly to faculty and the administrative manager in Research Staff Services. Research areas include but not limited to nonprofit or government sector, social impact, and systems leadership. The ideal RA candidate will be comfortable in an environment that requires a high level of independence and intellectual curiosity and the ability to use discretionary judgment. Under the general direction of Faculty member, RAs will develop, design and conduct research projects; develop interview structures, questions, and conduct interviews; synthesize, analyze, and produce original written materials for all forms of academic writing; conduct background research, propose and create new cases, and update existing cases or materials for classroom use; use advanced knowledge of qualitative research methodologies to design surveys, experiments or other instruments to manage, extrapolate and analyze research data.

Primary Duties

• Partner with HBS faculty on topics central to HBS research agenda, with a focus on the role of leadership in large-scale systemic social change issues. Provide advanced subject-area expertise, analysis, and interpretation to faculty member. Act with a high degree of autonomy. Serve as a collaborator and thought-partner.
• Develop, analyze, and implement research using advanced knowledge and learning in leadership and transformational change.
• Write cases, academic journal articles, case supplements, and project reports from start to finish creating original writing based on subject area expertise, research, and interviews. Independently manage all timelines and deliverables for multiple projects with competing priorities.
• Provide qualitative analysis, writing, and editing of academic journal articles, HBS cases, and HBS teaching notes. Propose, develop, synthesize, and provide analysis of literature reviews.
• Create original, thought-provoking, innovative presentations and writings for domestic and international audiences.
• Exercise independent decision making with regard to progression of research project and methodologies. When confronted with unexpected research data, be able to make deductions, add insight, and draw conclusions to share with faculty.
• Develop new techniques and instruments. Use knowledge of advanced subject area to analyze and interpret experimental results. Identify gaps in research and methods and recommend course of action.
• Produce original and innovative academic materials to supplement faculty research and teaching. Identify research directions, make recommendations to, and create original written material for faculty based on independent research.
• 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.
• In collaboration with faculty member must be able to take complex research ideas, concepts, and methodologies and apply them to new projects and situations. Must be able to structure assignments and keep faculty member informed as necessary, using own judgment.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree with 5+ years relevant work experience, or advanced degree required. Evidence of academic excellence and management experience. Strong skills related to the Microsoft Office Suite are expected.

• Knowledge and experience in Nonprofit Strategy, Social Impact, or Systems Leadership is a plus.

This is a full-time term appointment starting as soon as possible through June 30, 2023, with potential for re-appointment for the following year. All HBS RA roles are structured as one-year appointments.

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis. A cover letter and resume are required for full consideration. Upon the review of application materials, applicants may be asked to submit a writing sample and transcript(s). All positions will be given a writing exam.

HBS is not able to provide visa sponsorship for this position.

The University requires all Harvard community members to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and remain up to date with COVID-19 vaccine boosters, as detailed in Harvard’s Vaccine & Booster Requirements. Individuals may claim exemption from the vaccine requirement for medical or religious reasons. More information regarding the University’s COVID vaccination requirement, exemptions, and verification of vaccination status may be found at the University’s “COVID-19 Vaccine Information” webpage: http://www.harvard.edu/coronavirus/covid-19-vaccine-information/.

This role is offered as a hybrid (some combination of onsite and remote) where you are required to be onsite at our Boston, MA based campus 2-4 days per week. Specific days and schedule will be determined between you and your manager.

While we continue to monitor the evolving COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions, we appreciate your understanding and flexibility with our interview process. Please note that we will be conducting interviews virtually (phone and or Zoom) for selected candidates until further notice.

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/.

Research

USA - MA - Boston

RS0056 Researcher II Humanities

-

Full-time

056

00 - Non Union, Exempt or Temporary

30-Jun-2023

Education, Identity

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.

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.