Research Assistant II

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 Department of Health Care Policy (HCP) is a dynamic, data-driven research environment that brings together economists, statisticians, physicians, and health services researchers focused on improving health and health care delivery through comprehensive policy research and education. Under the direction of Professor Haiden Huskamp, a health economist and health policy researcher and the Henry J. Kaiser Professor of Health Care Policy, the Research Assistant will help coordinate the daily operations of research projects in the field of health policy, including topics related to the health and economic effects of policies governing mental health and substance use disorder treatment and prescription drugs. Current projects are focused on the role of telemedicine in mental health and addiction care; factors influencing the low rates of use of medications that treat alcohol use disorder and opioid use disorder; and the impacts of changes in provider payment policies on access to mental health and addiction treatment services, quality of care, and spending.  

The primary task for the Research Assistant will be to use statistical software to work with large data sets, including insurance claims datasets. This work will involve creating and managing data files that can be analyzed and conducting statistical analyses under the supervision of Dr. Huskamp. The Research Assistant is expected to have strong critical thinking and excellent writing skills to assist with drafting and preparation of manuscripts, presentations, and grant proposals. The Research Assistant will participate in team meetings and is expected to have strong verbal and written communication skills in conveying and discussing the methods and analyses with faculty collaborators and other team members. The Research Assistant will also conduct research tasks such as literature reviews. This position is ideal for candidates with an interest in health policy and who have plans for future doctoral studies.

As part of your application, we recommend including a cover letter that will help us better understand your qualifications and background. This can provide valuable insight into your experience and interest in the role.

Basic Qualifications:

• One or more years of related research experience or relevant coursework.
• Applicants should have proficiency in using statistical software such as R, SAS, and/or STATA.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• A background in statistical programming (competency in R, SAS, or STATA) and a basic understanding of econometrics or statistics is strongly encouraged.
• BA or BS in economics, statistics, public policy, political science, or related field, with quantitative coursework in a social science field.
• Must demonstrate interest, experience, or background in health policy research.
• Must be proficient with most computer software, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, and a willingness to learn other statistical or computer software as needed.
• Independent judgement, patience, and excellent communication skills are required to respond efficiently to varied/complex tasks.
• Organization and attention to detail are essential.
• Flexibility and the ability to work in a team is required.

• 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
• 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.

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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 053. 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.