Research Assistant

Posting date: January 16, 2026

External Reference: 002057SR

Job Type: Full-time
Location: Cambridge
School/Unit: Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences
Salary Grade: 052
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 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 Research Assistant I-Lab will report to a faculty member in the Department of Human Evolutionary Biology. Under specific direction, performs a variety of basic and general laboratory research and clerical tasks determined by the field and scope of several active research projects that are related to reconstructing hominin environments, paleofire in ancient ecosystems, and the diets of mammals and hominins. May perform tasks related to the research project independently, but within specific guidelines and subject to review by supervisor or other research staff.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

Responsibilities would include conducting lab work related to organic and inorganic geochemical experiments on plants, soils, teeth, bones, and geological samples, preparing samples for GC-MS or stable isotope analysis, and basic chemistry, including skills in both organic and inorganic chemistry. Prior experience in stable isotope geochemistry is desirable but not required.

Typical Duties

• Performs laboratory experiments utilizing specific and proscribed techniques and equipment.
• As a member of a project team, may assist in the design of laboratory experiments, techniques, and protocols.
• May perform routine logging and/or testing of samples.
• May occasionally instruct others in basic laboratory techniques.

Working Conditions:

• Work is performed on-site in Cambridge, MA.
• May be required to work with a variety of hazardous materials.

Physical Requirements:

• May be required to lift, move, and transport related laboratory equipment.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

• College background or equivalent work experience, preferably in a related discipline.
• At least one year of related work experience (relevant coursework may count towards experience).

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Demonstrated abilities in basic laboratory techniques helpful, but not required.
• Exposure to applicable computer technologies, including specific software applications (Microsoft Office/365), may be required.
• Strong communication skills required.

Additional Information

• This position is a 1 year term appointment from the date of hire and may be eligible for renewal depending on funding and performance, starting on or after 2/1/26.
• 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:

• All formal offers will be made by FAS Human Resources.
• A sample of research projects in the lab can be viewed at www.kevinuno.com/research

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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 052. 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.