"Laboratory Technician"

Job Summary

This position supports ecological research on climate and long-term environmental change through hands-on laboratory and data analysis focused on tree-ring samples from old-growth forests. The individual will process tree-ring samples from forest collections for analysis and will organize and quality-check tree-ring and forest ecology data using the programming language R (or the ability to transition from a similar language to R).

Job-Specific Responsibilities

As part of a collaborative research effort, this role contributes to long-term ecological studies on climate and environmental change through hands-on laboratory work and data analysis.

• Conduct sample preparation, image analysis, measurement, and analysis of ecological samples from old-growth forests. Evaluate samples using standard cross-dating procedures to determine data quality. Perform intensive microscopic or similar sample analysis in the laboratory to collect sample data with a high degree of skill and precision.
• Assist the Principal Investigator (PI) with additional quality-check data analysis, including creating ring-width chronologies, in preparation for data management and archival in the Harvard Forest data archive. This work will also enable successful transfer of data at the end of the project to publicly held databases such as the DendroEcological Network. These activities will be led by the lead Research Assistant under the supervision of the PI.
• Assist the PI with standard data recording and the development of tables and figures in preparation for presentations of project results.
• Perform other basic laboratory work, including maintaining equipment and supplies for field expeditions and laboratory research.

Working Conditions

• Work is primarily performed on-site in Petersham, MA and may require up to 5 weeks of travel for vegetation sampling.
• Field conditions include potential biting insects and ticks, and work may be done in inclement weather conditions.
• While days will be spent in the field, lodging will be in local motels/hotels.

Physical Requirements

• Field work requires spending time hiking and working in forests and other remote wilderness regions in prevailing weather conditions with rocky and/or steep terrain covered with vegetation.
• Must be capable of lifting, moving, and transporting related research equipment that may weigh up to 50 lbs.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications

• High school graduate or equivalent.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• One year experience with scientific research in tree-ring analysis or conducting vegetation sampling.
• Some related college courses or strong interest and aptitude in ecology, statistics, and laboratory management.
• Must be capable of working independently in the lab.
• Concentration and precision; work involves cross dating challenging increment core samples.

Additional Information

• This position is a 1 year (12 month) term appointment from the date of hire and may be eligible for extension depending on funding and performance
• Standard Hours: 35 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education
• Applicants MUST submit a cover letter in addition to their resume in order for their application to be reviewed.
• Selected candidates should be prepared to submit 3 relevant professional references upon request.
• All formal offers will be made by FAS HR.

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 049. 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.

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 Details

• Posting date: January 20, 2026
• Job Type: Full-time
• Location: Petersham
• School/Unit: Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences
• Salary Grade: 049
• Job Function: Research
• FLSA Status: Non-exempt
• Term Appointment: Yes
• Union: 55 - Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers