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Research Assistant II (Non-Lab), Fionn Folklore Database Project

Closes:

1,418

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 Fionn Folklore Database (fionnfolklore.org) provides scholars and the public unprecedented global access to one of the most important corpuses of intangible cultural heritage in the Gaelic languages: orally-recorded stories and songs pertaining to the hero Fionn mac Cumhaill.

We are seeking a Research Assistant (RA) to aid in the maintenance and expansion of the database.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

  • Translating descriptions, labels and editorial content from English to Gàidhlig or Irish
  • Creating content for the website (e.g. tale and character descriptions)
  • Entering data into the website
  • Online library and archival research to enhance or increase records of collection events in the database
  • Online biographical research to enhance records of people in the database
  • Project publicity tasks such as designing brochures, giving presentations and publicizing the project on social media

This is a remote/work from home position.

The posting will remain open until filled.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications: College background or equivalent in Celtic Studies, Scottish Gaelic or Irish Language, or a related field.

Qualifications or relevant experience in Scottish Gaelic or Irish language composition and translation.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

The following qualifications are not required, but may be beneficial:

  • Excellent literacy and written skills in Scottish Gaelic or Irish
  • Very good oral and written skills in English
  • Strong organizational, decision making, problem solving, time management and prioritization skills
  • An ability to work with all levels of academic and professional services colleagues
  • Highly motivated and able to work with minimal supervision
  • Able to resolve day-to-day issues and plan workload independently
  • A high level of flexibility, adaptability and resilience
  • Coursework and/or past research on Fionn Cycle folklore or literature
  • Experience working with Irish/Scottish Gaelic place names or genealogy (e.g. census data)
  • Experience creating social media content
  • Experience developing and giving presentations
  • Website data entry experience
  • Excellent IT skills and ability to learn new systems quickly

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
  • Other Information: In your cover letter, please include names and email addresses for two referees. Letters of reference are not required at this time.

This is a full time, 7-month term position with possibility of renewal based on available funds.

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that the duties and responsibilities can effectively be performed fully remotely at a non-Harvard location. Employees in fully remote positions must work all scheduled hours in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University's Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. At the discretion of the department, fully remote employees may occasionally be required on site at a Harvard location. Certain visa types and funding sources 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.

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.

Job details

Title
Research Assistant II (Non-Lab), Fionn Folklore Database Project
Employer
Harvard University
Location
Cambridge
Published
Aug 11, 2026
Closes:
Oct 10, 2026
Job type
Full time, Staff / Administration
Field
Laboratory and Research

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Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What qualifications are needed for this Research Assistant II position?

The role requires a college background or equivalent in Celtic Studies, Scottish Gaelic, Irish Language, or a related field. Strong composition and translation skills in Scottish Gaelic or Irish are essential. Additional desirable qualifications include excellent IT skills, organizational abilities, and experience with website data entry. Previous coursework or research on the Fionn Cycle is an asset. For similar opportunities, explore research assistant jobs.

🔤Is fluency in Scottish Gaelic or Irish required?

Yes, proficiency in Scottish Gaelic or Irish is mandatory for this post. The Research Assistant will translate descriptions, labels, and editorial content from English into these languages, create website content, and conduct research involving Irish/Scottish Gaelic place names and genealogy. You must have demonstrable experience in Gaelic language composition and translation.

🛂Can international applicants receive visa sponsorship?

No. Harvard University cannot provide visa sponsorship for this position. All candidates must already have authorization to work in the United States and be able to perform the job fully remotely from a Harvard registered state (as outlined in the university’s remote work policy).

📚What is the Fionn Folklore Database project?

The Fionn Folklore Database (fionnfolklore.org) is a digital archive that provides global access to one of the most important corpora of intangible cultural heritage in the Gaelic languages: orally-recorded stories and songs about the hero Fionn mac Cumhaill. The Research Assistant will help maintain and expand this database through translation, data entry, archival research, and publicity.

📝How do I apply and what should I include in my cover letter?

Submit your application through Harvard’s online portal. In your cover letter, you must include the names and email addresses of two referees. Letters of reference are not required at the time of application. For tips on crafting a strong academic cover letter, visit our free cover letter template. The posting will remain open until filled, so early application is recommended.

🏠Is this position fully remote?

Yes, this is a remote/work from home position. The employee must work all scheduled hours in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Some on-campus visits may be required at the department’s discretion. See more remote higher education jobs.

About the employer

Harvard University Jobs

Harvard University

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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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