Research Assistant I Lab

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.

About the Department of Cell Biology:

Located in Boston's Longwood Medical Area, Harvard Medical School brings together world-renowned scientists dedicated to advancing fundamental discoveries in biology and medicine. The Harper lab’s focus is on organelle quality control and understanding how protein degradation (via ubiquitin-proteasome system and autophagy) regulates proteome balance. The Harper lab harnesses biochemistry, genetics, proteomics, flow cytometry, and microscopy to uncover pathways and proteins involved in maintaining organelle homeostasis, and how these pathways affect cell physiology (for example in cultured neurons to study neurodegeneration). Additional information about the laboratory can be found at https://harper.hms.harvard.edu. This position provides an excellent opportunity to gain broad experience in modern experimental biology within a collaborative and highly interdisciplinary research environment. Approximately half of the position will involve supporting laboratory operations, with the remaining time devoted to research projects.

The Harper Lab at Harvard Medical School is seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to support research in cell biology and protein quality control. This position is ideal for recent college graduates interested in gaining intensive hands-on research experience before pursuing graduate or medical school. This position will work closely with postdoctoral fellows and the Principal Investigator on cutting-edge projects while developing technical expertise in molecular biology, cell biology, microscopy, proteomics, and quantitative experimental approaches.

The Research Assistant will support the Harper Lab's research program by performing experiments and helping maintain day-to-day laboratory operations. Responsibilities include assisting with cell culture, molecular biology, microscopy, biochemical experiments, and general laboratory organization. 

As part of your application, we recommend including a cover letter describing your research interests and why you are interested in joining the Harper Lab to help us better understand your qualifications and background. This can provide valuable insight into your experience and interest in the role.

Basic Qualifications:

• College background or equivalent work experience, preferably in a related discipline.
• At least one-year related lab experience (relevant course work may count towards experience).

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Engineering, or a related scientific discipline preferred; equivalent directly related research experience may substitute where appropriate.
• The ideal candidate is enthusiastic about scientific research, highly organized, and eager to learn new techniques. 
• Experience with molecular biology techniques such as PCR, DNA cloning, and routine laboratory pipetting.
• Mammalian cell culture experience.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple ongoing projects.
• Excellent attention to detail and record keeping.
• Quantitative reasoning and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. 
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative and diverse research environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

• 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. May occasionally work outside or normal business hours to support cell culture maintenance.
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity 
• 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 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.