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Harvard University

Lab Curriculum Coordinator I

Closes:

446

Company Description

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 Description

Job Summary:

The Lab Curriculum Coordinator I position reports to the Manager of the Biology Teaching Laboratories. Supports the implementation of labs for undergraduate instruction in molecular biology, microscopy, cell biology, organismic biology, human evolutionary biology and general education.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

Works as part of a team in preparing the lab portion of undergraduate Biology courses. The position supports multiple courses at a time. Collaborates with course instructors and manager to determine all necessary components for safe, effective lab instruction. Provides material and technical support for undergraduate experiments, including preparing chemical reagents, media, cultures, and consumables. Must be able to accurately calculate molarity, percent solutions, and other formulas as called for. Position may require the pre-running of lab procedures and troubleshooting of protocols under the supervision of course instructors or manager. Attends lab meetings for course portfolio and acts as a guide for Teaching Assistants. Sets up and maintains scientific equipment including microscopes, computers, and audio/visual tools. Provides technical assistance and instruction in the proper use of all equipment. Provides routine maintenance and arranges for repairs when necessary. Maintains clean lab classrooms and properly stores lab components and equipment. Purchases chemicals, specimens, and consumable supplies. Considers new equipment for student and/or teaching staff use and proposes ideas to the manager. Monitors chemical and biological waste and arranges for disposal or decontamination. Acts as the lab safety officer for lab classrooms. Must attend safety meetings and stay up to date on all lab safety training as determined by manager.

Typical Duties:

  • Preparation of reagents, media, and cultures according to approved protocols.
  • Operation of glassware washer, autoclave, and other lab equipment as needed.
  • Transport of lab equipment and materials between lab classrooms and buildings.
  • Orders supplies for each course as needed as well as general lab/office supplies for Teaching Labs' staff.
  • Performs regular lab maintenance and cleaning.
  • Maintains a history of lab protocols and equipment documentation.
  • Anticipates the needs of instructors and uses student protocols to proactively prepare lab classrooms.
  • Act as lab safety officer in lab classrooms and be a first-contact for all users.
  • Other duties as may be requested by lab instructors and performed with Manger's approval.
  • Makes periodic reports of duties and status to supervisor.

Working Conditions:

This position requires being present and active among multiple lab classrooms, full-time, Monday-Friday and is 100% onsite.

Physical Requirements:

At times, position requires repetitive motions. May be required to lift and transport equipment between locations.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

College background required. A minimum of one year of lab experience (relevant course work may count toward experience). Knowledge of lab techniques.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

Bachelor's degree in Biology or related field strongly preferred. General lab safety, hazardous waste, biohazard and blood-borne pathogen experience. Must be able to accurately perform calculations. Must be self-motivated with independent judgment and trouble-shooting skills, customer service oriented, and have strong oral and written communication skills. Must also be comfortable learning new lab skills. Must be able to act with autonomy.

Additional Information

  • 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
  • Other Information: All formal offers will be made by FAS Human Resources

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 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.

Job details

Title
Lab Curriculum Coordinator I
Employer
Harvard University
Location
Cambridge
Published
Sep 15, 2026
Closes:
Nov 14, 2026
Job type
Full time, Staff / Administration
Field
Laboratory and Research

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Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What qualifications do I need for the Lab Curriculum Coordinator I role at Harvard?

You need a college background and at least one year of lab experience; relevant coursework may count toward experience. A Bachelor's degree in Biology or a related field is strongly preferred. Working knowledge of lab techniques, general lab safety, hazardous waste, biohazard, and blood-borne pathogen procedures is expected. You should also be able to accurately calculate molarity and percent solutions, work independently, and communicate clearly. Explore similar research jobs or higher ed administration roles.

🧪What are the main responsibilities of a Lab Curriculum Coordinator I?

You will prepare chemical reagents, media, and cultures for undergraduate biology labs and support courses in molecular biology, microscopy, cell biology, organismic biology, and human evolutionary biology. Daily tasks include setting up microscopes and audio/visual equipment, operating autoclaves and glassware washers, ordering supplies, documenting lab protocols, and acting as lab safety officer. You will also guide Teaching Assistants and troubleshoot protocols. Browse administration jobs or higher ed jobs for related openings.

🛂Does Harvard offer visa sponsorship for this lab coordinator position?

No. Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this Lab Curriculum Coordinator I position. Candidates must meet work location sponsorship requirements before employment. This is common for onsite staff roles in university jobs and Ivy League schools.

📍What is the work schedule and location?

The role is full-time, 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, and is 100% onsite in Cambridge, MA. You will move among multiple lab classrooms and may occasionally lift or transport equipment. Because it is campus-based, you must be able to work at Harvard or Harvard-designated locations. See more university jobs or higher ed administration jobs.

💰What salary range and benefits can I expect?

The posting does not list a specific salary range, but the role is salary grade 053 at Harvard. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance starting day one, retirement plans, generous paid time off, tuition assistance, and wellbeing resources. You can compare academic staff compensation on university salaries or search higher ed jobs for similar roles.

📄How can I strengthen my application for this Harvard lab role?

Highlight any biology lab coursework, lab safety training, and experience with reagent preparation, microscopy, or cell culture. Emphasize accuracy with chemical calculations such as molarity and percent solutions, and show independent problem-solving and customer service. Use a focused free resume template and free cover letter template to tailor your application.

About the employer

Harvard University Jobs

Harvard University

4.0 Star Employer Ranking

Harvard University offers a diverse range of job and work opportunities across various categories, reflecting its status as a leading academic and research institution. These opportunities cater to different skill sets, academic backgrounds, and career stages. Harvard University Academic Positions - click here . Harvard University Staff Jobs - click here . The main types of jobs and work opportunities at Harvard: 1. Faculty and Academic Positions Tenure-Track Faculty : These roles include assistant, associate, and full professors across Harvard’s schools (e.g., Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Harvard Business School). Faculty engage in teaching, research, and service. Qualifications typically include a Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree, a strong research portfolio, and teaching experience. Openings vary by department and school, with competitive hiring processes. Non-Tenure-Track Faculty : Includes lecturers, preceptors, and visiting professors. These roles focus primarily on teaching or short-term research projects and may require a Ph.D. or significant expertise in the field. Research Appointments : Postdoctoral fellowships, research associates, and scientists work on cutting-edge research in fields like medicine, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. These positions often require advanced degrees and are funded through grants or specific research programs. 2. Administrative and Professional Staff Administrative Roles : These include positions in academic administration (e.g., deans’ offices, registrar, admissions), student services, and program management. Examples include academic program coordinators, admissions officers, and financial aid advisors. These roles often require a bachelor’s or master’s degree and relevant experience. Professional Staff : Harvard employs professionals in areas like human resources, finance, communications, development (fundraising), and alumni relations. Examples include HR specialists, financial analysts, and marketing managers. These positions typically require specialized skills or certifications. Executive and Leadership Roles : Senior positions like directors, department heads, or executive administrators oversee operations in specific units or schools. These roles demand extensive experience and leadership skills. 3. Research and Laboratory Staff Research Support Staff : Includes lab managers, research technicians, and data analysts who support faculty and postdoctoral researchers in labs across disciplines like biology, chemistry, physics, and medicine. These roles often require technical skills, such as proficiency in lab equipment or data analysis software. Clinical Research Roles : At Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals, clinical research coordinators and specialists support medical and health-related studies. These positions may require certifications like Good Clinical Practice (GCP) training. 4. Technical and IT Staff Information Technology : Harvard employs IT professionals for roles like systems administrators, software developers, cybersecurity analysts, and data scientists to support its technological infrastructure. These positions require expertise in areas like cloud computing, AI, or network management. Library and Information Services : Harvard’s extensive library system hires librarians, archivists, and digital resource specialists. These roles often require a master’s degree in library science or related fields. 5. Support and Operations Staff Facilities and Operations : Includes roles in maintenance, custodial services, groundskeeping, and security. These positions ensure the smooth operation of Harvard’s campus and may not require advanced degrees but often need specific training or certifications. Dining and Hospitality : Harvard’s dining services employ chefs, food service workers, and catering staff to support campus dining halls and events. Administrative Support : Roles like executive assistants, office managers, and receptionists provide critical support to departments and faculty. 6. Student and Temporary Opportunities Student Employment : Harvard offers on-campus jobs for students, including work-study positions in libraries, dining halls, labs, and administrative offices. These roles are typically part-time and designed to accommodate academic schedules. Temporary and Seasonal Work : Temporary roles, such as event staff or short-term project assistants, are available for non-students as well. These are often listed through Harvard’s temporary staffing services. 7. Medical and Healthcare Roles Clinical and Healthcare Staff : Through Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals (e.g., Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital), opportunities exist for physicians, nurses, medical technicians, and other healthcare professionals. These roles require medical licenses or certifications. Public Health Professionals : The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health employs researchers, policy analysts, and program managers focused on global health initiatives. 8. Creative and Media Roles Arts and Culture : Harvard’s museums (e.g., Harvard Art Museums) and cultural institutions hire curators, educators, and exhibition staff. The American Repertory Theater employs artists, stage managers, and production staff. Communications and Media : Roles in writing, graphic design, social media, and public relations support Harvard’s outreach and branding efforts. Key Characteristics of Harvard Jobs Diversity of Roles : Harvard’s workforce spans academic, administrative, technical, and operational functions, with opportunities for both entry-level and highly specialized professionals. Competitive Benefits : Harvard offers comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, tuition assistance, and professional development. Faculty and staff also gain access to Harvard’s libraries, museums, and cultural events. Global Impact : Many roles, especially in research and public health, contribute to global advancements in knowledge and policy. Location : Most positions are based in Cambridge or Boston, Massachusetts, with some remote or hybrid options, particularly for administrative and IT roles. How to Find Opportunities Harvard Careers Portal : The primary resource for job listings is Harvard’s Human Resources website (hr.harvard.edu/jobs), which lists openings for faculty, staff, and temporary roles. School-Specific Listings : Each Harvard school (e.g., Harvard College, Harvard Law School) may post specialized positions on their websites. Networking and Referrals : Many academic and research roles are filled through professional networks or direct outreach to departments. X Platform : Searching for “Harvard University jobs” on X can reveal real-time discussions, job postings, or employee experiences, though these should be verified through official channels. Additional Notes Qualifications : Requirements vary widely. Faculty roles typically need advanced degrees, while support roles may prioritize experience or specific skills. Work Environment : Harvard emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and collaboration, with opportunities for professional growth and community engagement. Application Process : Most positions require an online application through Harvard’s careers portal, including a resume, cover letter, and sometimes additional materials like teaching statements or research portfolios.

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