Research Assistant I Lab

Posting date: February 04, 2026

External Reference: 002117SR

1. Job Type: Full-time
2. Location: Boston
3. School/Unit: Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
4. Department: Immunology and Infectious Diseases
5. Salary Grade: 052
6. Job Function: Research
7. FLSA Status: Non-exempt
8. Term Appointment: Yes
9. 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 T.H. Chan School of Public Health?

The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health is a world-renowned institution dedicated to advancing public health through cutting-edge research, education, and global collaboration. Our school is a special place to work because of its vibrant, mission-driven community, interdisciplinary approach, and commitment to addressing some of the most pressing health challenges worldwide. We foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment where innovation, continuous learning, and work-life balance are valued.

Learn more about the School’s mission, objectives, and core values, our Principles of Citizenship, and about the Dean’s AAA vision about our school’s ongoing strategic initiatives.

Job Description

Job Summary:

The Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases (IID) focuses on the biological, immunological, epidemiological and ecological aspects of viral, bacterial and protozoan diseases of animals and humans, including the vectors that transmit infectious agents. Research in the department's 14 laboratories is primarily focused on diseases of developing countries.

The Neafsey Lab uses genomic and serologic data to study vector-borne infectious diseases (principally malaria). The lab employs a perspective informed by population genetics and molecular evolution to investigate interactions between microbes, vectors, and hosts.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

The successful candidate will assist in research exploring the evolutionary genomics of malaria parasites and Anopheles mosquito vectors.

The responsibilities of the Research Assistant include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Perform molecular protocols preparatory to sequencing or genotyping samples, including DNA extraction, PCR or whole genome amplification, library construction, and DNA quantitation
• Execution of genotyping assays for malaria parasites and Anopheles mosquitoes, including locus selection, primer design, and evaluation of assay performance from Illumina sequencing data
• Manage samples and data with precision, and perform routine computational activities to summarize biological data
• Perform other duties as assigned

The candidate is required to interact with a large variety of other staff and researchers including graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and senior scientists. The candidate will present their work in group and laboratory meetings to update the Principal Investigator.

PLEASE NOTE: This position has a term appointment of June 30, 2027, with the possibility of extension.

PLEASE NOTE: The finalist will be required to pass an occupational health screening.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

• 1+ years of relevant experience is required; a combination of education and experience may be considered

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor's Degree
• College coursework in Biology or related field
• Experience with sterile technique and basic molecular biology protocols
• Experience with or knowledge of molecular biology methods
• Analytical and quantitative skills
• 1 year of research experience
• Spanish language facility or fluency desirable
• Experience with DNA extraction and PCR
• Experience working Google Workspace and Slack
• High level of initiative
• Excellent organizational skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
• Experience with multi-tasking in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent interpersonal skills and great at working in a team environment

Additional Information

• Appointment End Date: June 30, 2027
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Criminal,

Join the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health to support our mission of health research and education, and to be a part of the oldest institution of higher learning in the country!

The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health does not provide visa sponsorship, now or in the future, for staff positions.

Harvard University requires pre-employment reference checks and background screenings.

This position has a 90 day orientation and review period. The O&R period will be waived for any internal Harvard employee transfers.

The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up to date on CDC-recommended vaccines.

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.