Research Core Scientist

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 Faculty of Arts and Sciences?

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) is the historic heart of Harvard University. It is the home of Harvard’s undergraduate program (Harvard College, founded in 1636) as well as all of Harvard’s Ph.D. programs (the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division of Continuing Education. The 40 academic departments and 30+ centers of the FAS support a community unparalleled in its academic excellence across the broadest range of liberal arts and sciences disciplines. Together, the FAS seeks to foster an environment of ambition, curiosity and shared commitment to knowledge and truth that elicits excellence from all members of our community and prepares the next generation of leaders through a transformative educational experience.

Job Summary:

Execute a range of scientific research activities in a core facility including planning and conducting experiments, recording, and analyzing data, and provide training to researchers.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

Executes a range of activities in a core facility with a primary focus on flow cytometry:

• Independently performs instrument start-up, maintenance, and QC.
• Independently executes flow cytometry and cell sorting experiments according to researchers’ specifications in a fee-for-service core facility.
• Interacts daily with users of the core facility.
• Supports researchers by helping them to troubleshoot instrument issues.
• Performs lab inventory and stocking.
• Partners with Research Computing and Informatics team members to help coordinate project submissions, resource reservations, software access, data analysis, and data storage.

Working Conditions:

• May be exposed to bloodborne pathogens, primary tissue, cell lines or infectious materials
• May work in a research environment where animals are present
• May be exposed to toxic, radioactive, or carcinogenic materials including compressed gases, acids, solvents, vacuum pump oils, and other chemicals
• May be required to work nights and weekends

Physical Requirements:

• Lifting (up to approximately 50 pounds), bending, and other physical exertion including repetitive motions
• Standing and/or sitting for extended periods

Basic Qualifications (required):

• Bachelor’s degree in a scientific or engineering discipline and at least one year of relevant work experience; OR
• A minimum of five years of relevant work experience or equivalent combination of education and experience

Additional Qualifications and Skills (preferred):

• Experience with flow cytometry and cell sorting.
• Demonstrated analytical and quantitative skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to excellent customer service including patience with new researchers and ability to communicate complex, technical material verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work independently, be self-motivated, and have a willingness to learn and implement new techniques.

• This position is a 2 year term appointment from the date of hire with renewal contingent upon funding and performance.
• 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, Education 
• All formal offers will be made by FAS HR.

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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 056. 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.