Researcher Lifecycle & Compliance Lead

Harvard University, Faculty of Arts & Sciences; Cambridge (MA); Hybrid; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Harvard University, Faculty of Arts and Sciences seeks a Researcher Affairs Specialist to administer a portfolio of researcher appointments and manage the employee lifecycle—from hiring and onboarding to visa coordination and payroll-related transactions—ensuring compliance with university policies. The role requires exceptional organization, sound judgment, and a strong customer‑service orientation.

Minimum qualifications include a bachelor's degree and three years of relevant administrative

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and 3+ years of administrative experience in an academic/research environment.
• Experience administering academic/research appointments and investigator lifecycle management.

Responsibilities

• Administer researcher appointments and lifecycle actions (hiring, onboarding, salary changes, and promotions) in alignment with policy.
• Coordinate visa initiation and compliance with HR and immigration offices; manage I-9 processing where applicable.
• Process payroll and related transactions; ensure timely, accurate postings across departments and grant managers.
• Advise faculty, researchers, and administrators on appointment types and policy requirements; triage issues and coordinate with HR, HIO, and OFA.

Skills

Administrative support

Project coordination

Customer service

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office

HRIS systems

Job description

Harvard University, Faculty of Arts and Sciences seeks a Researcher Affairs Specialist to administer a portfolio of researcher appointments and manage the employee lifecycle—from hiring and onboarding to visa coordination and payroll-related transactions—ensuring compliance with university policies. The role requires exceptional organization, sound judgment, and a strong customer‑service orientation.

Minimum qualifications include a bachelor's degree and three years of relevant administrative