"Research Assistant II"

Job Summary

The We-Search Lab at Harvard University, directed by Ashwini Ashokkumar, is seeking a full-time Researcher Assistant with computational and data analysis skills for an exciting series of projects aimed at studying the psychology of political discourse. Projects will involve analyzing natural language datasets to answer research questions about identity processes and group dynamics.

Job-Specific Responsibilities

The Researcher Assistant's primary responsibilities will include: (1) Collecting and processing large-scale social media or other natural language datasets; (b) Developing and maintaining text analysis pipelines and data analysis scripts; (c) Organizing and maintaining these datasets in shared drives/servers; (d) Developing and leading original projects with the PI or collaborating with lab members on projects; (e) Writing manuscripts and presenting at conferences; and (f) Assisting with maintaining shared lab resources, such as IRB protocols.

This is an excellent and unique opportunity for a motivated individual to gain experience with computational social science research.

The candidate's contribution would likely lead to authorship on papers published from these projects.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications

College background in psychology, social/political science, communications, economics, computer science, data science, statistics, or related field.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• 1-2 years research experience in psychology, social/political science, communications, economics, computer science, data science, statistics, or related field
• Excellent data analysis and coding abilities, including skills in statistical analysis (e.g., R), computational methods (e.g., NLP methods), programming (e.g., Python), online research tools (e.g., Qualtrics)
• Strong interpersonal skills and a high level of organization with careful attention to detail
• This position requires a high degree of motivation, although extensive training and supervision will be provided

Additional Information

• 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

Interested candidates should submit the following:

• A cover letter describing your (a) research interests, (b) prior research experience, including experience with statistical skills and methods, and (c) contact details of two references
• CV
• One writing sample

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled. All applications received by April 10 will receive full consideration. For more information, please visit the lab website (https://www.ashwinia.com) or contact the PI directly.

All formal offers will be made by FAS Human Resources.

This is a two-year term position with renewal dependent upon continuation of funding.

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.