Research Assistant III Non-Lab

Posting date: February 27, 2026

External Reference: 002321SR

• Job Type: Full-time
• Location: Boston
• School/Unit: Harvard Medical School
• Department: Health Care Policy
• Salary Grade: 054
• 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 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

Dr. Michael Chernew, the Leonard D. Schaeffer Professor of Health Care Policy and Director of the Healthcare Markets and Regulation Lab (HMR Lab), seeks a Research Assistant (RA) to support research projects focused on health care spending, prices for health care services, payment reform, quality measurement, managed care, Medicare Advantage, delivery system transformation, and risk adjustment.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct literature reviews and searches for faculty member.
• Prepare and analyze large datasets using statistical software.
• Prepare manuscripts and grant materials, including proofreading, text formatting, and designing tables and figures.
• Coordinate collaborator meetings and materials.
• Manage research activities for faculty member and associates.
• Assist with data entry and maintenance of publication files when needed.
• Assist with the drafting of grant proposals, manuscripts, data use applications, and IRB protocols.
• Develop presentation and dissemination materials.

The successful candidate will have programming and data management skills, as well as strong written and verbal communication skills. Prior research experience is preferred, along with demonstrated knowledge of relevant research areas and methods and experience with statistical analysis techniques. The ideal candidate will be self-motivated and able to succeed with limited supervision and direction. This position is ideal for candidates seeking research experience in preparation for an advanced degree in health economics or health policy.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

• Two or more years of related research experience. Higher education may count towards years of experience.
• Applicants should have proficiency in using statistical software packages such as SAS, STATA and/or R.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• BA or BS in economics, statistics, public policy with a quantitative focus, or related field.
• Must demonstrate interest, experience, or background in areas related to health policy evaluation.
• Must be willing to learn other software as needed.
• Independent judgment, patience, and excellent communication skills are required to respond efficiently to varied/complex tasks.
• Organization and attention to detail is a must.
• Flexibility and the ability to work with a team are essential.
• Must be able to maintain a calm and cooperative attitude during periods of increased activity.

Additional Information

• Term: This is a one-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: 35 hrs. per week | Monday - Friday | 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Criminal
• Other Information: Please note that we are currently conducting a majority of interviews and onboarding remotely and virtually. We appreciate your understanding.

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. 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 054. 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.