Research Assistant I

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.

The Datta Lab in the Department of Neurobiology is seeking a Research Assistant to support research aimed at understanding how Alzheimer’s disease (AD) risk genes influence the function of innate immune cells. Our work leverages an interdisciplinary toolkit—including tissue imaging, single-cell sequencing, and in vitro culture systems—to elucidate how these cells operate during the late stages of Alzheimer’s disease.

The Research Assistant will perform a variety of laboratory research tasks related to our projects investigating cell–cell interactions in tauopathy and their impact on disease progression. The work will be performed under specific direction, and the research assistant may be asked to perform familiar tasks independently. The ideal candidate is well organized and motivated, has strong communication skills, and works well with a multidisciplinary team of researchers.

Typical responsibilities include:

• Handling and maintaining animal colonies, including colony tracking and genotyping.
• Carrying out behavioral and molecular experiments and research according to protocols given by lab members. This will include basic procedures such as brain slicing using a cryostat, staining for proteins using immunohistochemical techniques, identifying RNAs via in situ analysis, etc.
• Analyzing data and presenting results at lab meetings and during one-on-one meetings with the PI and direct supervisor.
• Maintaining laboratory equipment and inventory.
• The technician may also assist with broad lab support tasks (e.g. ordering supplies) as needed.

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:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Previous laboratory experience 6 months to 1 year preferred.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills for troubleshooting experiments.
• Time management and organizational skills.
• Collaboration skills to work alongside others in the lab.
• Technical skills to set up equipment and use laboratory instruments.
• Passion for science and basic research.

• Term: This is a one-year 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: 35 hrs. per week | Monday - Friday | 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Criminal, Pre-Placement Medical Evaluation
• Other Information: Please note that we are currently conducting a majority of interviews and onboarding remotely and virtually. We appreciate your understanding.
• Staying Informed About Your Application: Due to the high volume of applications, we may not always be able to reach out right away, but you can track your status anytime through the Careers@Harvard portal.

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.