Research Assistant II Non-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 the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health?

The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health is a world-renowned institution dedicated to advancing public health through cutting-edge research, education, and global collaboration. Our school is a special place to work because of its vibrant, mission-driven community, interdisciplinary approach, and commitment to addressing some of the most pressing health challenges worldwide. We foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment where innovation, continuous learning, and work-life balance are valued.

Learn more about the School’s mission, objectives, and core values, our Principles of Citizenship, and about the Dean’s AAA vision about our school’s ongoing strategic initiatives.

Job Summary:

The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Department of Environmental Health is looking for a full-time Research Assistant II Non-Lab to join our team. Work conducted by our team is focused on understanding air pollution exposures within homes and neighborhoods and includes environmental exposure assessment, emerging sensor technologies and other diagnostic tools, and the application of data science. We are working to develop and improve the methods of quantifying environmental exposures and health risks in ways that inform outreach, intervention, and public policy. Our work is motivated by a desire to improve health and alleviate environmental health disparities.

This position will include both fieldwork and data analysis. For the field work, this position will support a NIH-funded intervention study on heat stress based in Boston, MA involving participant enrollment and data collection in 100 households. For data analysis, this position will assist in data cleaning and statistical analyses for two projects examining indoor air pollution. This position will also support air monitoring equipment and project coordination for additional team projects.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Participant enrollment and scheduling participants from specific areas of Boston, MA (n=100)
• Data collection (temp/RH monitor set-up, survey administration)       
• Organization of on-site (in Boston) and off-site (throughout the US) field activities
• Air quality monitoring equipment maintenance and troubleshooting
• Data processing, cleaning, quality control, and management
• Assistance with data analysis, interpretation, and manuscript preparation
• Work closely with the PI, Project Manager, and other study staff
• Performing other duties as assigned

PLEASE NOTE: This position has a term appointment of 2 years from date of hire, with the possibility of extension.

PLEASE NOTE: Finalists may be required to submit code samples or take assessment to evaluate Spanish language proficiency.

PLEASE NOTE: Data collection will require travel from office to participant homes in Boston, MA and schedule may require evening work (as needed based on participant availability). This is a hybrid position and this position will be based in Boston, MA.  Additional detail pertaining to this position will be discussed during the interview process.

Basic Qualifications:

• 2+ years of relevant experience is required; a combination of education and experience may be considered
• 1+ year computer programming experience in any language (R or Python preferred) is required
• Fluency in Spanish is required

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science, comparable Science major, statistics, or related field
• Prior experience in community engagement, human subject studies, or related work
• Strong attention to detail
• Works well independently and as part of a team
• Strong self-starter
• Strong verbal/written communication and interpersonal skills 
• Interest in air pollution science and monitoring equipment

• Appointment End Date: Two years from the date of hire
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Criminal

Join the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health to support our mission of health research and education, and to be a part of the oldest institution of higher learning in the country! 

-------------------- 

• The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health does not provide visa sponsorship, now or in the future, for staff positions. 
• Harvard University requires pre-employment reference checks and background screenings. 
• This position has a 90 day orientation and review period. The O&R period will be waived for any internal Harvard employee transfers. 

-------------------- 

The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up to date on CDC-recommended vaccines. 

#LI-SL1

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.