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Harvard University

Staff Assistant III, Lab Operations

Closes:

1,521

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

The Department of Immunology seeks to fill a Staff Assistant III, Lab Operation position to help support the business office in the department and to support a Principal Investigators lab. Will perform a variety of complex administrative/support duties to coordinate the activities and procedures of the Immunology Business Office and faculty lab support. Will assist the Principal Investigator (PI) in administrative tasks to support the daily running of a laboratory for 20+ researchers. The responsibilities of this position are highly variable depending on the needs of the PI and the Business Office, it will include; assisting in the submission of grants proposals and progress reports; assist with lab protocol renewals and amendments (IACUC and COMS); coordination of travel/ meeting commitments; assist in the drafting of out-going correspondence; serving as administrative liaison with other Harvard departments; maintenance of the PI’s lab website and curriculum vitae (CV); assist with the onboarding of newly arrived lab members. Prepare purchase orders and payment requests and reimbursements for the department and the lab. Works independently with minimal supervision. Updates supervisors on status of projects.

  • Organizes and implements administrative systems and procedures performing necessary support duties.
  • Serves as principal source of information on established School and Department policies and advises the faculty, students or staff on existing options or alternatives.
  • Gathers and maintains data for and assists in preparing reports, often using a variety of computer software.
  • Prepares and maintains the PI’s lab and department’s records, reviews complex documents, reports, etc., to assure compliance with university requirements and/or government regulations and notifies supervisors of unusual situations.
  • Acts as liaison with related programs or projects at other universities or with government agencies, keeping the supervisor informed of relevant information.
  • Provides for smooth day-to-day flow of communications within the PI’s lab and the Immunology Department.
  • May compose, proofread, edit and prepare correspondence, reports and other materials using word processing, spreadsheets and/or databases.
  • May arrange for use of facilities and advise availability of services within and outside the University for gatherings such as conferences and seminars.
  • May assist in training, scheduling and distributing work of other staff members, students, and temporary workers.
  • Contributes to PI lab and Department goals by accomplishing related duties as required.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

Three + years related experience with proven office administration and customer service skills required. Education beyond high school may count toward experience.

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. In office 3 days a week and remote 2 days a week.
  • Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
  • Pre-Employment Screening: Identity
  • Staying Informed About Your Application: Due to the high volume of applications, we may not always be able to reach out right away, but you can track your status anytime through the Careers@Harvard portal.

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 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
Staff Assistant III, Lab Operations
Employer
Harvard University
Location
Boston
Published
Aug 26, 2026
Closes:
Oct 25, 2026
Job type
Full time, Staff / Administration
Field
Administrative Assistants

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Frequently Asked Questions

📋What are the main duties of the Staff Assistant III, Lab Operations at Harvard Medical School?

This Staff Assistant III, Lab Operations role supports the Department of Immunology business office and a Principal Investigator’s lab with 20+ researchers. Key duties include assisting with grant proposals and progress reports, managing IACUC and COMS lab protocol renewals, coordinating travel and meeting commitments, drafting correspondence, onboarding new lab members, maintaining the PI’s CV and lab website, and preparing purchase orders, payment requests, and reimbursements. You’ll also act as an administrative liaison with other Harvard departments. Explore similar administrative roles in higher education.

🎓What qualifications are required for this Harvard Medical School lab operations position?

The role requires three or more years of related experience with proven office administration and customer service skills. Education beyond high school may count toward experience. You should be comfortable with word processing, spreadsheets, and databases, and able to work independently with minimal supervision while updating supervisors on project status. See more administration jobs in higher education and use our free resume template to highlight relevant experience.

🛂Is visa sponsorship available for this Staff Assistant III role?

No. Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Applicants must already have authorization to work in the United States. For other university jobs, visa sponsorship availability may vary by role.

📍What is the work schedule and location for this Harvard Medical School job?

This is a hybrid role based in Boston, Massachusetts. The standard schedule is 35 hours per week, Monday through Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, with 3 days in the office and 2 days remote per week. When working remotely, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Employment Outside of Massachusetts policy. Review more higher education administrative jobs.

📝How do I apply for the Staff Assistant III, Lab Operations position at Harvard Medical School?

Applications are submitted through the Careers@Harvard portal. Because of high application volume, Harvard may not reach out immediately, but you can track your status anytime through the portal. Tailor your application to highlight grant proposal support, lab protocol renewals, and office administration. Get started with a free cover letter template or browse administrative roles in higher education.

⏳Is this Harvard Medical School Staff Assistant III position permanent?

No. This is a one-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension contingent upon work performance and continued funding. The role is full-time at 35 hours per week and is classified as salary grade level 053.

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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