Writer and Research Assistant

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Why join the Harvard Kennedy School?

The John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University is one of 12 graduate and professional schools at the university. Harvard Kennedy School’s mission is to improve public policy and leadership so people can live in societies that are more safe, free, just, and sustainably prosperous. By combining cutting-edge research, the teaching of outstanding students, and direct interaction with practitioners, we have an impact on solving public problems that no other institution can match. When you work at Harvard Kennedy School, you make a difference.

Job Summary:

The Writer and Research Assistant to the Dean provides high-level research and speechwriting support to the Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) Dean. This role requires exceptional writing ability and analytical thinking, excellent interpersonal skills, attention to detail, ability to work on tight deadlines, proactive anticipation of information needs, and effectiveness in carrying out research and synthesis.

Reporting to the Chief of Staff and responding to requests from the Chief of Staff and Dean, the Writer and Research Assistant will research and prepare formal remarks, briefings, talking points, and presentations as they relate to the Dean's official functions, including meetings, professorial and decanal lectures, and events. Operating as a representative of the Dean with senior-level staff, faculty, and external audiences, they will be expected to operate at all times with collegiality, discretion, and judiciousness, including with respect to confidential and sensitive information. They will collaborate with multiple units and HKS colleagues to gather necessary background information and draft briefings and remarks. They will provide research assistance to advance strategic priorities for the school and contribute to academic projects of the Dean. Finally, in support of the Chief of Staff, the incumbent will support the daily and long-term activities of the Dean's Office and work to advance the Dean's agenda. 

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

• Draft and revise formal written remarks, drawing on input from the Dean and Chief of Staff, in consultation with HKS departments and research centers as appropriate.
• Draft and revise talking points, slide decks, and other written documents tailored to different contexts, ensuring accuracy and relevance, in consultation with HKS departments and research centers as appropriate. 
• Conduct background research and prepare reports and summaries for the Dean and Chief of Staff. Undertake research and prepare briefings and reports related to the Dean’s strategic priorities and research projects.
• Support the Dean’s classroom teaching, including course administration and development.
• Partner with HKS administrative units to plan and execute special events and semi-annual campus gatherings.
• Develop background materials as necessary, including financial data, historical context, and academic data.
• Work with a sense of urgency to meet deadlines and deliver high-quality briefings and materials in a timely manner. 
• Accompany the Dean and Chief of Staff to meetings as requested for purposes of notetaking and information synthesis.

Note: Applicants wishing to be considered must provide a resume/CV, cover letter, and writing sample. 

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree.
• Minimum of three years of related experience in research, speechwriting and/or policy-based writing, and administration. Relevant internships will count towards experience. 

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• A demonstrated collaborative style with a wide range of stakeholders and the ability to establish and maintain productive working relationships. 
• Strong time-management and organizational skills and the ability to both take initiative and work on multiple projects simultaneously, on deadline, while maintaining attention to detail. 
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information and data with requisite discretion.
• Strong interest in higher education and technology policy, and experience writing or researching on issues in these domains.
• A proactive mindset and the ability to anticipate information needs. 
• Proficiency in gathering and analyzing data from multiple sources. 

Required Application Materials:

• Resume/CV
• Cover Letter
• Writing Sample

• Appointment End Date: One year from date of hire, with possibility of renewal/extension. 
• 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
• Other Information: The interview process for this position will include research- and writing-based exercises.

This position is based on our campus in Cambridge, MA and is required to work a minimum of 3 days/week in-person. This is not a remote-eligible position. 

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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 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.