Research Assistant I

Research Assistant I

Posting date: April 30, 2026

Job Type: Full-time
Location: Cambridge
School/Unit: Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences
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 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:

In the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, we research and teach how the collective behavior of molecules and cells forms the basis of life. We are driven by a passion for discovery and value collaborative approaches to scientific inquiry, where connections between people fuel interdisciplinary science and break boundaries across varied experimental systems. Against a backdrop of cutting edge biological research, we work as a team of educators and mentors to inspire and train the next generation of scientists and global citizens. The Whipple Lab in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology at Harvard University is seeking a full-time Research Assistant I. Our lab studies how gene expression is regulated in the brain, with a focus on genomic imprinting—an epigenetic phenomenon in which genes are expressed from only one parental allele. We use imprinting as a model system to uncover fundamental principles of chromatin organization and RNA-guided gene regulation in mammalian cells.

Our research integrates molecular biology, genomics, and neuroscience approaches to investigate how allele-specific chromatin architecture and non-coding RNAs regulate neuronal function. Ongoing work includes studies of long non-coding RNAs and small nucleolar RNAs, with implications for neurodevelopmental disorders such as Angelman syndrome and Prader–Willi syndrome.

The Research Assistant will contribute to an individual research project within the lab’s broader program while also supporting laboratory operations. This position is ideal for candidates seeking significant hands-on research experience and mentorship in preparation for graduate training.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

We are seeking a highly motivated and organized individual to provide technical support for ongoing research projects while contributing to the daily operation of the laboratory. The Research Assistant will work closely with the PI and other lab members and will have the opportunity to develop both experimental and professional skills in a collaborative research environment. The successful candidate will be expected to work both independently and collaboratively, take initiative in learning new techniques, and contribute to a rigorous and supportive lab environment.

Research responsibilities may include:

• Assisting with experimental design and execution
• Performing molecular biology experiments (e.g., cloning, genetic perturbations)
• Supporting sequencing-based assays (e.g., RNA-seq, chromatin profiling)
• Working with mammalian cell culture systems, including stem cells and neurons
• Collecting, organizing, and analyzing experimental data
• Contributing to lab meetings, presentations, and written summaries

In addition to research activities, the Research Assistant will contribute to laboratory operations. Responsibilities may include:

• Maintaining laboratory organization and shared resources
• Preparing reagents and managing inventory
• Ordering supplies and coordinating equipment maintenance
• Supporting laboratory safety and compliance

Working Conditions:

• This position is based fully on-site in Cambridge, MA and does not offer any hybrid remote flexibility.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications (required):

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, neuroscience, biocomputation, or a related field.

Additional Qualifications and Skills (preferred):

• At least one year of laboratory research experience is strongly preferred
• Basic knowledge of general laboratory practices and procedures
• Experience with molecular biology, cell culture, or genomics approaches
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities and work independently
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• High level of motivation, reliability, and professionalism

Additional Information

• This position is a 1 year term appointment from the date of hire with possibility of extension contingent on performance and funding.
• 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

Other Information:

• This position is designed to provide substantial research and professional development over time and is best suited for candidates interested in gaining in-depth experience prior to graduate training.
• Applicants MUST submit a cover letter in addition to their resume in order for their application to be reviewed.
• All formal offers will be made by FAS HR.

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.