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Research Assistant I

Research Assistant I

locationCambridge, MA, USA
PublishedPublished: 9/6/2025
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:

In the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology at Harvard University, we research and teach how the collective behavior of molecules and cells forms the basis of life. We are driven by a passion for discovery and value collaborative approaches to scientific inquiry, where connections between people fuel interdisciplinary science and break boundaries across varied experimental systems. Against a backdrop of cutting-edge biological research, we work as a team of educators and mentors to inspire and train the next generation of scientists and global citizens.

The Gredler Laboratory investigates cell behaviors in live embryos to address fundamental questions about how tissues are built. We invite applications for a Research Assistant position with responsibilities including mouse colony management, genotyping, embryo and tissue processing for downstream analysis, and technical support for general lab setup. The successful candidate will perform tasks related to the research project independently while under the guidance and mentorship of the supervisor.


Job-Specific Responsibilities:

We are seeking a highly motivated individual to provide comprehensive technical support and experimental work for projects aimed at understanding collective cell behaviors in mouse embryos. Gredler Lab projects provide opportunities to gain experience with interdisciplinary techniques including mouse embryo dissection, genotyping, immunofluorescence, and high resolution imaging. As this work exists at the interface of cell biology, genetics, and developmental biology, applicants with a diverse background in training and education will be considered. The successful candidate will perform tasks related to the research project independently while under the guidance and mentorship of the supervisor.

This position does not offer hybrid remote/in person work flexibility. There is an expectation that employees be able to work in person in Cambridge, MA.


Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

College background or equivalent work experience, preferably in a related discipline


Additional Qualifications and Skills:

  • B.S./B.A. degree in Biology or a related field
  • Basic knowledge of general laboratory practices and procedures
  • At least one year of laboratory research experience is required
  • Background training and knowledge of animal colony maintenance is strongly preferred
  • Knowledge of basic computer technologies, including specific software applications such as Windows system, Google Drive suite, MATLAB, and Python
  • Strong interpersonal skills, in addition to the ability to work both independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team
  • Must be well-organized with attention to detail, both experimentally and with communication both oral and written
  • Must be self-motivated with excellent time management, organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Additional Information
  • Appointment End Date: This is a one year term
  • 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 written offers will be made by FAS HR.

Work Format Details

This position is based on-site at a Harvard campus location. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. 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.

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, sex, ethnicity, color, national origin, 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.