Staff Researcher

Posting date: February 27, 2026

Reference: 002404SR

• Job Type: Full-time
• Location: Cambridge
• School/Unit: Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences
• Department: Research Staff
• Salary Grade: 056
• Job Function: Research
• FLSA Status: Exempt
• Term Appointment: Yes
• Union: 00 - Non Union, Exempt or Temporary

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 John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences?

At the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS), we work within and beyond the disciplines of engineering and foundational science to address the most pressing issues of our time. Through teaching and collaborative research, SEAS discovers, designs, and creates novel technologies and approaches to societal challenges – in service to the world, the nation, and our community. We collaborate across academic areas at SEAS and the larger university, and with colleagues in academia, industry, government and public service organizations beyond Harvard. By joining SEAS, you will be part of an inclusive community of dedicated problem-solvers who hold themselves – and one another – to the highest academic and professional standards. To learn more about us, please visit https://seas.harvard.edu/.

Job Description

Job Summary:

The Staff Researcher is responsible for applying the Integrated Methane Inversion (IMI) to quantify methane emissions in different countries and regions of the world. The IMI is a software tool developed in Professor Daniel Jacob’s Atmospheric Chemistry Modeling Group (ACMG) to infer methane emissions from satellite observations. There is demand from stakeholders contracting with Harvard to apply the IMI to a range of conditions. The Staff Researcher will handle a variety of these assignments within the ACMG and under Professor Jacob’s supervision. They will interact directly with the stakeholders to configure the IMI in the most effective way for specific applications and will contribute new developments to the IMI. This is a one-year term appointment with the possibility of extension.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

• Apply the IMI to quantify methane emissions.
• Interact directly with the stakeholders to configure the IMI for their applications.
• Develops, designs and conducts original research experiments in line with research plans.
• Participates in the development and modification of new protocols and experimental strategies.
• Interprets and implements research methodology.
• Formulates research methods and suggests options for improving quality; troubleshoots and recommends solutions to problems.
• Conducts scientific analysis of experimental results to understand trends, characteristics and tendencies.
• Presents research findings at laboratory meetings.
• Disseminates project results through writing articles, reports, and conference presentations.
• Trains users in equipment operation and laboratory techniques.

Working Conditions:

Work is performed in a research lab and office setting.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in atmospheric science, environmental engineering, or related field plus a minimum of 3 years’ related experience. An advanced degree in a related field may count towards years of experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Advanced degree in atmospheric science, environmental engineering, or related field strongly preferred.
• Scientific programming experience required.
• Excellent written and oral presentation skills.

Additional Information

• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week. This hybrid position will require on campus work as needed, to be determined by supervisor.
• Compensation Range/Rate (including Shift Differential if applicable):
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity and Education
• Other Information:
  • This is a one-year term appointment with the possibility of extension.
  • Applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to be considered for this position.

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 056. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.