Research Assistant I

Posting date: January 26, 2026

External Reference: 002099SR

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:

The Girguis Lab at Harvard University is seeking a Research Assistant I to support an ongoing research project about energy harvesting from ocean biomass. This position will report directly to the Principal Investigator and the lab manager. Broadly speaking, the Research Assistant will conduct and/or manage the nutrient analyses of seawater, sediment, concentrated organic matter, digested organic matter from the fermentation reactor, and post-incubated organic matter from the microbial fuel cell. Specifically, the technician may be asked to work on running or outsourcing samples to generate data on total organic carbon, total organic nitrogen, dissolved organic carbon, nutrient analyses, including nitrate/nitrite, ammonium, silica, among others.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

Typical Duties:

• Performs laboratory experiments utilizing specific and proscribed techniques and equipment;
• Collects project data;
• Under direction, processes, organizes, and summarizes data, reporting experiment results using a variety of scientific, word processing, spreadsheet, or statistical software applications or program platforms;
• As a member of a project team, may assist in the design of laboratory experiments, techniques, and protocols;
• May perform routine logging and/or testing of samples;
• May occasionally instruct others in basic laboratory techniques;
• Performs related laboratory maintenance such as maintaining and cleaning equipment and ordering supplies;
• May process orders or invoices, or undertake other clerical and simple accounting duties under the direction of administrative personnel.

Working Conditions: Office and lab setting.

Physical Requirements: May be required to lift, move, and transport related laboratory equipment. May be required to work with a variety of hazardous materials.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications: College background in Biology, Marine Engineering, or Marine Sciences. At least one year of work experience in a wet lab. Education may count towards experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills: B.S. or B.A. in biology, marine engineering, or marine sciences. Must have a strong background and proficiency in biology and enjoy working in a collaborative team with others. Must know standard laboratory practices and be familiar with general laboratory equipment. Must be highly motivated, organized, and able to work independently.

Additional Information

• Appointment End Date: one year term appointment from date of hire
• 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
• In order to be considered for this position, a cover letter and resume must be submitted.
• 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 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.