"Research Assistant II"

Project Zero is a research unit in the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Its mission is to understand and enhance learning, thinking, and creativity in the arts, as well as humanistic and scientific disciplines, at the individual and institutional levels.

Under nominal direction, the Research Assistant will support a national, 15-month mixed-methods study investigating how students and professionals in high-need fields (such as education, healthcare, and skilled trades) understand the value of postsecondary credentials beyond economic return. The project explores concepts such as meaning, identity, purpose, and social contribution in education and work. The Research Assistant will assist with data collection, coding, project coordination, and general research and clerical tasks. Responsibilities will be carried out under supervision and as part of a collaborative research team.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

• Assists in collecting project data through structured interviews, surveys, and focus groups; supports recruitment, scheduling, and tracking of research participants.
• Codes, enters, and organizes both qualitative and quantitative data in accordance with established project protocols; may review transcripts or take notes during interviews.
• Uses tools such as Qualtrics, Excel, or ATLAS.ti to process, summarize, and help report on research findings.
• Prepares summaries or brief reports of project status for the research team; attends and supports regular team meetings.
• May assist in the preparation of draft survey instruments or early-stage prototypes; supports data entry and document formatting.
• Contributes to maintaining project records, including tracking participant incentives, updating IRB documentation, and ensuring data is stored securely.
• Performs clerical and coordination duties such as preparing agendas and notes, managing project files, and supporting virtual event logistics.
• May assist with basic communications tasks such as proofreading blog posts, formatting presentations, or helping maintain website content.

Working Conditions: This is a part-time (50% FTE) position. Work may be conducted remotely, with participation in virtual interviews and meetings across U.S. time zones. Occasional travel may be required based on project needs. The position may require use of digital meeting tools and transport of project materials.

Qualifications:

Basic Qualifications: College background or equivalent experience, preferably in education, sociology, social sciences, or a related field. Candidates should submit a cover letter and resume as a single PDF document. Any applicant wishing to be considered for this position should indicate that they meet all of the basic requirements in either the cover letter or resume. This is a PT (17.5 hours a week) position with a term appointment until Nov 30, 2026, from the date of hire. The position is currently a hybrid position with 2 days in the Cambridge office and 3 days remote.

Additional Qualifications and Skills: One to two years of related research experience (academic coursework or supervised research experience may count). Exposure to research methods and tools such as Qualtrics, Excel, and/or coding software (e.g., NVivo, Dedoose, or ATLAS.ti) preferred. Strong organizational and communication skills; attention to detail. Familiarity with research populations and sensitivity to working with diverse communities. Ability to work collaboratively and follow established procedures in a research environment.

For more information about HGSE, its programs, research, and faculty, please visit: www.gse.harvard.edu.