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Harvard University

Senior Scientist I- Program Manager

Closes:

461

Details

Posted: 27-Aug-26

Location: Boston, Massachusetts

Categories: Staff/Administrative

Internal Number: 461c09ec-2bd2-4548-95bc-5a2694bf9cb2

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 Wyss Institute at Harvard University?

The Wyss Institute’s mission is to transform healthcare and the environment by emulating the way nature builds. We harness the imagination of academia and the focus of industry to translate ground-breaking technologies into commercial products that solve big problems. We support research that universities, companies, and venture capital firms don’t fund because they view it as too risky. We prefer to use the word "challenging," and we love challenges. For more information discover our technologies, catch up on our recent news, or watch our latest videos.

Job Description

About you:

You are a collaborative program manager with significant scientific acumen and experience in meeting program goals on a defined schedule. You have experience working with managing complex research and development grants or contracts, as well as supervising Contract Research Organizations, while ensuring that program reporting requirements, milestones and deliverables are met. You want to be a part of a dynamic team dedicated to tackling an ambitious program in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial-minded environment with resources and support from top-notch scientific, operations, and administrative professionals. You enjoy working with highly motivated, diverse teams and leveraging your expertise to create innovations that can change the world.

About this role:

Reporting to the Principal Engineer-Program Management and working under the scientific direction of the Principal Investigator on the program, you will serve as one of the main contacts with the government agency that funds this program. Working closely with the Principal Investigator and senior scientific staff, you will be responsible for the day-to-day oversight, integration, and coordination of all program activities, including technical operations, administrative infrastructure, and reporting requirements to ensure the efficient planning, initiation, implementation, direction, and completion of the program.

This is a position that is based at a Harvard campus location requiring on average 3 days per week on site with some remote work options available.

What you'll do:

Program Leadership:

  • Provide high level organizational leadership and scientific support to the Principal Investigator and Senior Staff lead to ensure integrated and efficient execution of the award requirements across all contributing teams
  • Serve as one of the primary points of contact with the funding agency for the program of work and all related award activities
  • Develop proficiency for managing complex sponsored awards with comprehensive understanding of award mechanisms, engaging with government sponsors, and coordinating appropriate roles with Wyss Research Administration team.
  • Oversee development of all award reporting requirements including regular program review presentations as well as monthly, annual, and final written reports per award requirements
  • Develop and execute Gantt charts for management of program schedule and/or budget; work with Wyss Research administration to support and fulfill all program budget requirements
  • Regularly review and manage budgets in coordination with Wyss Research Administration team
  • Ensure good laboratory practices and data management across all teams, serve as a resource and contact for the Institute’s lab and data management teams
  • Oversee and organize all relevant IACUC, IRB, COMS, and ESCRO protocols, in partnership with Clinical team
  • Maintain a list of all MTA, NDAs, and points of contact with industrial, investor, foundation, and government collaborators relevant to the award; ensure all are up to date and in place when needed
  • Ensure compliance of Wyss team and subcontractors with all relevant sponsor requirements as well as manage Quality Assurance and Data Management Plans
  • Manage transfer of data files, development of technology transfer packages, and delivery of any other required materials to funding agency
  • Assist research team in preparation of reports of invention, patent submissions, and technology translation working closely with the Wyss intellectual property and business development teams, as well as Harvard's Office of Technology Development

Scientific Contribution and Support:

  • Provide scientific support for teams and serve as a resource to consult, advise and troubleshoot scientific challenges and opportunities that arise
  • Help to coordinate scientific insights and knowledge across teams to ensure that learnings are shared to promote an integrated and shared, scientific knowledge base.
  • Recruit outside experts, consults, and engagements when needed to deepen scientific understanding, incorporate new scientific methods, execute critical work efforts, and/or identify new opportunities to improve experimental protocols
  • Identify additional collaborators or funding opportunities to promote the translation of new fundamental insights and manage relationships with vendors, subcontractors , and contract research organizations
  • Assist researchers in the experimental design, data analysis, writing, and preparation of figures for manuscripts, abstracts, posters, other publications of research findings, and additional related grant applications

Team Engagement and Integration:

  • Maintain dynamic collaborations with open communications among all interacting technical teams to ensure Program success.
  • Motivate and inspire team. Provide advice and mentorship to all team members.
  • Work closely with senior technical staff members to ensure appropriate human resource allocation to ensure adequate staffing and expertise across teams to achieve grant objectives. Identify, recruit and nurture relationships with internal and external experts to advance the scientific agenda when needed.
  • Cultivate a culture of open innovation to rapidly identify and troubleshoot any problems or barriers to the research agenda so that solutions may be identified and implemented in a timely manner.

Qualifications

What you'll need:

  • Advanced degree in a life science, medicine and/or engineering required.
  • A minimum of six years’ experience performing project management or related work with multidisciplinary research and development teams in the biopharmaceutical, biotechnology, diagnostics and/or other industry. A PhD/MD may count towards years of experience.

Desirable skills:

  • Prior program management of ARPA-H, BARDA, DARPA, or other large U.S. government-funded projects strongly preferred
  • Demonstrated success in leading and working in cross-functional teams
  • Excellent management, organizational, documentation, analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • Comfortable in a fast-paced translational environment and able to troubleshoot problems to ensure objectives are met on time and on budget

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, Education

Why you’ll like working with us:

At the Wyss Institute, you’re a member of a supportive, dynamic community that is united by its shared goal of changing the world through groundbreaking technology development and commercialization. We encourage your professional growth and development through mentorship and tuition reimbursement to support continued learning, and more. We also support your physical, financial, and mental well-being through generous time off benefits, gym reimbursements, and other programs offered through Harvard. Our facility is located in a new, state-of-the-art life sciences building in the lively Fenway neighborhood, where you have access to multiple amenities including a roof top terrace with stunning views of Boston and proximity to numerous restaurants and cultural attractions. We value an inclusive and diverse workforce, and believe that our differences enrich the work environment for all.

Not ready to apply? Join our talent community via this link here.

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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 058. 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
Senior Scientist I- Program Manager
Employer
Harvard University
Location
Massachusetts Hall, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
Published
Aug 27, 2026
Closes:
Oct 26, 2026
Job type
Full time, Staff / Administration
Field
Laboratory and Research

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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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