Research Assistant I

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Why join the Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences?

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) is the historic heart of Harvard University. It is the home of Harvard’s undergraduate program (Harvard College, founded in 1636) as well as all of Harvard’s Ph.D. programs (the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division of Continuing Education. The 40 academic departments and 30+ centers of the FAS support a community unparalleled in its academic excellence across the broadest range of liberal arts and sciences disciplines. Together, the FAS seeks to foster an environment of ambition, curiosity and shared commitment to knowledge and truth that elicits excellence from all members of our community and prepares the next generation of leaders through a transformative educational experience.

Job Summary:

The Ölveczky lab, a neuroscience research group at Harvard University, is looking for a Research Assistant I to help manage day-to-day operations and contribute to ongoing research projects.  We are looking for a curious, responsible, and detail-oriented person who is willing to apply themselves to new problems and learn new skills.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

This position will involve assisting senior researchers with a variety of laboratory tasks.  These include:

• Monitor lab inventory and purchasing supplies as needed.
• Assist with running lab experiments.
• Perform standard procedures, including updating animal protocols.
• Build and operate scientific equipment.
• Analyze results from experiments.
• Performs related job duties as required.

Working Conditions:

May be required to work with a variety of hazardous materials.  May be required to work with and handle animals.  May be required to lift, move, and transport related laboratory equipment and supplies.

Basic Qualifications:

College coursework in science, biology, or engineering, preferably with one year of lab experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

Candidates should have at least a bachelor's degree in a discipline of science/engineering. Prior relevant research experience and facility with coding and electronics are desired but not required. Successful candidates will be detail-oriented, responsible, dependable, and have a good sense of judgment.

• Appointment End Date:This is a one-year term position
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 40 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity
• Other Information:
  • In order to be considered for this position, a cover letter and resume must be submitted.

    ***All formal offers will be made by FAS Human Resources.

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.