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Research Assistant II - Flow Cytometry Operator

Closes:

1,214

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

Exciting opportunity for a Flow Cytometry Operator to join the Harvard Medical School Department of Immunology’s Flow Cytometry Core Facility and participate in a spectrum of cutting-edge research across multiple departments. The Operator will participate in the operation, maintenance and quality control of top-flight flow cytometers and cell sorters. The Operator will perform cell sorting services with researchers at HMS and provide advice on experimental design and execution. The Operator will also participate in general administrative duties and tasks required for the operation and maintenance of the facility. We are looking for an enthusiastic, curious, and interactive team member for this stimulating position, and will train a promising candidate.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

  • College background or equivalent work experience.
  • One to two years of related experience, preferably in flow cytometry or a related analysis technique. Relevant coursework and research experience may count toward experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, Immunology, Cell Biology, or a related field.
  • Prior experience working in a laboratory environment, with a solid understanding of flow cytometry and cell sorting techniques.
  • Familiarity with data analysis software like FlowJo, FACSDiva, or similar platforms.
  • Strong multitasking abilities, attention to detail, and the ability to manage complex technical procedures.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively collaborate with diverse research teams.

Additional Information

  • Term: This is a two-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:40 hrs. per week | Monday - Friday | 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
  • Pre-Employment Screening: Identity
  • 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 053. 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.

Job details

Title
Research Assistant II - Flow Cytometry Operator
Employer
Harvard University
Location
Boston
Published
Sep 9, 2026
Closes:
Nov 8, 2026
Job type
Full time, Staff / Administration
Field
Laboratory and Research

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Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What qualifications do I need for this Flow Cytometry Operator role?

To qualify, you typically need a college background or equivalent work experience and one to two years of related experience in flow cytometry or a related analysis technique. A Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, Immunology, Cell Biology, or a related field is strongly preferred. Practical skills in FlowJo, FACSDiva, or similar data analysis software will help your application stand out. Explore research assistant jobs to see how similar roles compare.

🔬What will I do as a Flow Cytometry Operator at Harvard Medical School?

In this Research Assistant II role, you will support the Department of Immunology Flow Cytometry Core Facility. Key duties include operating, maintaining, and performing quality control on flow cytometers and cell sorters, performing cell sorting services for researchers, and advising on experimental design. You’ll also help with facility administrative tasks. Learn more about research job responsibilities or browse clinical research jobs.

🛂Is visa sponsorship available for this Harvard Medical School job?

No. Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must already meet work location sponsorship requirements before employment. If you are exploring other opportunities, see Ivy League schools hiring now or research assistant jobs with different sponsorship policies.

🗓️What is the term, schedule, and work format for this position?

This is a two-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension contingent on performance and funding. The standard schedule is 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. All duties are performed on-site at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. For broader context, see higher education administration jobs.

📝How can I improve my application for a Flow Cytometry Operator position?

Highlight hands-on flow cytometry and cell sorting experience, list FlowJo or FACSDiva proficiency, and show strong attention to detail and multitasking. Tailor your materials using this guide to writing a winning academic CV and prepare with research assistant interview questions.

💼What benefits does Harvard Medical School offer for this position?

Harvard provides a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance starting on day one, retirement plans with university contributions, generous paid time off, parental leave, wellbeing and mental health resources, and professional development opportunities such as tuition assistance. Learn more about Ivy League schools or explore research assistant jobs with strong benefits.

About the employer

Harvard University Jobs

Harvard University

4.0 Star Employer Ranking

Harvard University offers a diverse range of job and work opportunities across various categories, reflecting its status as a leading academic and research institution. These opportunities cater to different skill sets, academic backgrounds, and career stages. Harvard University Academic Positions - click here . Harvard University Staff Jobs - click here . The main types of jobs and work opportunities at Harvard: 1. Faculty and Academic Positions Tenure-Track Faculty : These roles include assistant, associate, and full professors across Harvard’s schools (e.g., Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Harvard Business School). Faculty engage in teaching, research, and service. Qualifications typically include a Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree, a strong research portfolio, and teaching experience. Openings vary by department and school, with competitive hiring processes. Non-Tenure-Track Faculty : Includes lecturers, preceptors, and visiting professors. These roles focus primarily on teaching or short-term research projects and may require a Ph.D. or significant expertise in the field. Research Appointments : Postdoctoral fellowships, research associates, and scientists work on cutting-edge research in fields like medicine, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. These positions often require advanced degrees and are funded through grants or specific research programs. 2. Administrative and Professional Staff Administrative Roles : These include positions in academic administration (e.g., deans’ offices, registrar, admissions), student services, and program management. Examples include academic program coordinators, admissions officers, and financial aid advisors. These roles often require a bachelor’s or master’s degree and relevant experience. Professional Staff : Harvard employs professionals in areas like human resources, finance, communications, development (fundraising), and alumni relations. Examples include HR specialists, financial analysts, and marketing managers. These positions typically require specialized skills or certifications. Executive and Leadership Roles : Senior positions like directors, department heads, or executive administrators oversee operations in specific units or schools. These roles demand extensive experience and leadership skills. 3. Research and Laboratory Staff Research Support Staff : Includes lab managers, research technicians, and data analysts who support faculty and postdoctoral researchers in labs across disciplines like biology, chemistry, physics, and medicine. These roles often require technical skills, such as proficiency in lab equipment or data analysis software. Clinical Research Roles : At Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals, clinical research coordinators and specialists support medical and health-related studies. These positions may require certifications like Good Clinical Practice (GCP) training. 4. Technical and IT Staff Information Technology : Harvard employs IT professionals for roles like systems administrators, software developers, cybersecurity analysts, and data scientists to support its technological infrastructure. These positions require expertise in areas like cloud computing, AI, or network management. Library and Information Services : Harvard’s extensive library system hires librarians, archivists, and digital resource specialists. These roles often require a master’s degree in library science or related fields. 5. Support and Operations Staff Facilities and Operations : Includes roles in maintenance, custodial services, groundskeeping, and security. These positions ensure the smooth operation of Harvard’s campus and may not require advanced degrees but often need specific training or certifications. Dining and Hospitality : Harvard’s dining services employ chefs, food service workers, and catering staff to support campus dining halls and events. Administrative Support : Roles like executive assistants, office managers, and receptionists provide critical support to departments and faculty. 6. Student and Temporary Opportunities Student Employment : Harvard offers on-campus jobs for students, including work-study positions in libraries, dining halls, labs, and administrative offices. These roles are typically part-time and designed to accommodate academic schedules. Temporary and Seasonal Work : Temporary roles, such as event staff or short-term project assistants, are available for non-students as well. These are often listed through Harvard’s temporary staffing services. 7. Medical and Healthcare Roles Clinical and Healthcare Staff : Through Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals (e.g., Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital), opportunities exist for physicians, nurses, medical technicians, and other healthcare professionals. These roles require medical licenses or certifications. Public Health Professionals : The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health employs researchers, policy analysts, and program managers focused on global health initiatives. 8. Creative and Media Roles Arts and Culture : Harvard’s museums (e.g., Harvard Art Museums) and cultural institutions hire curators, educators, and exhibition staff. The American Repertory Theater employs artists, stage managers, and production staff. Communications and Media : Roles in writing, graphic design, social media, and public relations support Harvard’s outreach and branding efforts. Key Characteristics of Harvard Jobs Diversity of Roles : Harvard’s workforce spans academic, administrative, technical, and operational functions, with opportunities for both entry-level and highly specialized professionals. Competitive Benefits : Harvard offers comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, tuition assistance, and professional development. Faculty and staff also gain access to Harvard’s libraries, museums, and cultural events. Global Impact : Many roles, especially in research and public health, contribute to global advancements in knowledge and policy. Location : Most positions are based in Cambridge or Boston, Massachusetts, with some remote or hybrid options, particularly for administrative and IT roles. How to Find Opportunities Harvard Careers Portal : The primary resource for job listings is Harvard’s Human Resources website (hr.harvard.edu/jobs), which lists openings for faculty, staff, and temporary roles. School-Specific Listings : Each Harvard school (e.g., Harvard College, Harvard Law School) may post specialized positions on their websites. Networking and Referrals : Many academic and research roles are filled through professional networks or direct outreach to departments. X Platform : Searching for “Harvard University jobs” on X can reveal real-time discussions, job postings, or employee experiences, though these should be verified through official channels. Additional Notes Qualifications : Requirements vary widely. Faculty roles typically need advanced degrees, while support roles may prioritize experience or specific skills. Work Environment : Harvard emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and collaboration, with opportunities for professional growth and community engagement. Application Process : Most positions require an online application through Harvard’s careers portal, including a resume, cover letter, and sometimes additional materials like teaching statements or research portfolios.

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