Research Associate (Writing Focused)

Harvard University; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous paid time off

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement plans with contributions

Wellbeing and mental health resources

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Harvard University is seeking a Research Associate to support faculty in writing and research activities. The ideal candidate must possess a Bachelor's degree with a GPA above 3.5 and prior writing experience. Responsibilities include producing original writing, assisting with research, and engaging directly with colleagues. The position is full-time, with a work schedule of 40 hours per week and is set to last until June 2027, with expectations for reappointment.

Qualifications

• Prior experience supporting short-form writing and website project management preferred.
• Evidence of original academic writing and ability to produce thoughtful analysis.
• Extremely high standards in quality of work and ability to manage multiple tasks.

Responsibilities

• Work with faculty on research topics and provide subject-area knowledge.
• Write cases, project reports, and articles for business audiences.
• Interpret complex research ideas and apply to new projects.
• Engage directly with colleagues on-site.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Skills

Writing experience

Analysis and interpretation

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor's degree with GPA above 3.5

Job description

Job Description

Research Associate (RA) to support faculty members on writing and content focused work. The successful candidate will have a strong understanding of business topics and prior writing experience.

The Research Associate (RA) position reports directly to faculty supervisors and the administrative manager in the Research Staff Services office. Ideal RA candidates will be comfortable in an environment that requires a high level of independence, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to use discretionary judgment.

Primary Duties

• Work under the general direction of HBS faculty on topics central to the HBS research agenda. Provide subject‑area knowledge, analysis and interpretation to faculty members. Identify and explore a wide range of questions related to faculty’s research agenda.
• Write cases, case supplements, project reports, and drafts for a book project from start to finish, creating original writing based on subject‑area expertise, research and interviews, and write articles for applicable business audiences such as Harvard Business Review.
• Under general direction of the faculty member, take complex research ideas, concepts and methodologies and apply them to new projects and situations. Structure assignments and keep the faculty member informed as necessary, using own judgment.
• Build trust and collaboration by being present on‑site and engaging directly with colleagues and various constituents.
• Responsible for other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree with a GPA above 3.5 is required.
• Prior experience supporting short‑form writing and website project management is preferred.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Evidence of prior high‑quality, original academic writing, and background in analysis and interpretation of relevant data, research, news, and literature is helpful. Ability to read academic, subject‑specific information and produce a reasoned and thoughtful analysis, as well as a creative interpretation, is a must.
• The candidate must have extremely high standards in terms of quality of work, attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and absolute commitment to task completion. Must be able to balance multiple tasks and shifting priorities under tight deadlines at an accelerated pace when necessary. Familiarity with navigating a complex organization such as Harvard Business School is helpful.

Additional Information

Appointment End Date: June 30, 2027. These are term appointments starting summer 2026 through June 30, 2027, with an expectation of reappointment until June 30, 2028. All Research Associate roles at HBS are structured as one‑year term appointments, but faculty strongly prefer candidates willing to commit for two years.

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, Education.

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. Details will be discussed during the interview process.

Salary Grade and Ranges: This position is salary grade level 055.

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that supports a healthy work‑life balance and physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Benefits include:

• 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

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.