Research Assistant I Non-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 the Harvard Kennedy School?

The John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University is one of 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 Belfer Center seeks a Research Assistant to support Eric Rosenbach, Senior Lecturer at the Harvard Kennedy School and Director of the Belfer Center’s Defense, Emerging Technology, and Strategy Program. The successful candidate will be interested in national and international security, critical emerging technologies, and cybersecurity, but prior experience in one or more of these areas is not required.

This position will work closely with Professor Rosenbach, support staff, and a small student research team. This position will play a key role in:

• Planning, conducting research for, marketing, and executing high-level events, including large public events and small private working groups.
• Coordinating with high-profile visiting guests and fellows.
• Assisting with the facilitation of HKS courses taught by Eric Rosenbach, including a course on policy design and delivery and a course on emerging technologies and national security.
• Contributing to research papers for publication on the Defense, Emerging Technology, and Strategy webpage, and potentially to external publications.
• Onboarding and offboarding student researchers.
• Other job-related duties, as required.

The ideal candidate will:

• Be a self-starter with keen attention to detail.
• Be skilled in managing multiple diverse activities simultaneously, delivering on commitments, and operating with speed, accuracy, and strong judgment.
• Be a team player willing to work on areas outside of a typical portfolio.
• Have experience in an academic or think-tank setting.

Basic Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree required along with 1 or more years of work-related experience. Related internships will count towards this requirement.

A complete application must include the following:

(1) Cover letter of 300 words or less

(2) Résumé or CV

(3) Official or Unofficial transcript

(4) Names and contact info for three references.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Exceptional writing skills; basic quantitative proficiency
• Demonstrated ability to work with minimal supervision under tight deadlines
• Intellectual curiosity
• Strong interpersonal skills

• Appointment End Date: Benefits-eligible one year term appointment with the possibility of renewal.
• 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

Important Application Instructions:

A complete application must include the following:

(1) Cover letter of 300 words or less

(2) Résumé or CV

(3) Official or Unofficial transcript

(4) Names and contact info for three references.

Evaluation of qualified candidates may include a written assessment exercise.

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. 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 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.