Research Assistant I

Posting date: February 07, 2026

External Reference: 002196SR

Job Details

• Job Type: Full-time
• Location: Boston
• School/Unit: Harvard Medical School
• Department: Microbiology
• Salary Grade: 052
• Job Function: Research
• FLSA Status: Non-exempt
• Term Appointment: Yes
• Union: 55 - Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers

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 Harvard Medical School?

Harvard Medical School's mission is to nurture a diverse, inclusive community dedicated to alleviating suffering and improving health and well-being for all through excellence in teaching and learning, discovery and scholarship, and service and leadership.

You’ll be at the heart of biomedical discovery, education, and innovation, working alongside world-renowned faculty and a community dedicated to improving human health. This is more than a job - it’s an opportunity to shape the future of medicine.

Job Description

The Jost laboratory at Harvard Medical School is looking for a research assistant to contribute to our work in microbiome biology. The individual will join a young laboratory with opportunities to contribute to multiple exciting projects, broadly focused on defining the molecular mechanisms of host-microbiome interactions using CRISPR screens, advanced cell culture models, and genetic manipulations of microbiome bacteria. The research assistant will carry out experiments with mammalian cell lines and human microbiome bacteria, working closely with students and post-doctoral fellows in the laboratory. The research assistant will also participate in lab management duties including reagent preparation, assisting of lab members in projects and maintaining cultures of mammalian cell lines. Target start date for the position is June 1st, 2026.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

• At least one-year related work experience (relevant course work may count towards experience).
• College background or equivalent work experience, preferably in a related discipline.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or similar field preferred.
• General interest in basic science research.

Additional Information

• Term: This is a one-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance and continued funding to support the position.
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hrs. per week | Monday - Friday | 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity
• Other Information: Please note that we are currently conducting a majority of interviews and onboarding remotely and virtually. We appreciate your understanding.
• Staying Informed About Your Application: Due to the high volume of applications, we may not always be able to reach out right away, but you can track your status anytime through the Careers@Harvard portal.

#LI-KM2

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 052. 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.