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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
The Lauder Lab at Harvard University studies animal biomechanics and physiology. We are studying a variety of organisms and systems to better understand how animals function. One project is a collaborative effort with Prof. Jessica Whited, which takes an integrative approach to study limb regeneration in salamanders. The goal of our research is to better understand animal metabolism and how changes in morphology affect energy use. We are seeking a Research Assistant I Lab to support our growing lab needs. This position will report directly to the Principal Investigator.
Under specific direction, the Research Assistant performs a variety of basic and general laboratory research and clerical tasks determined by the field and scope of this project on salamander metabolism and regeneration. May perform tasks related to this research project independently, but within specific guidelines and subject to review by supervisor or other research staff.
Typical Duties:
- Performs laboratory experiments to measure the metabolic rate of salamanders;
- Collects project data;
- Under direction, processes, organizes, and summarizes data, reporting experimental results using a variety of scientific, word processing, spreadsheet, or statistical software applications or program platforms;
- 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;
- Performs related laboratory maintenance such as maintaining and cleaning equipment and ordering supplies.
Working Conditions:
Will be required to work with and handle animals.
Qualifications
Basic Qualifications:
College background in Biology and at least one year of related work experience with live animals. Education may count towards experience.
Additional Qualifications and Skills:
Experience and approval to work with live animals, measuring animal metabolic rates, and specific experience in salamander animal care and maintenance are preferred. Candidate must understand and follow good laboratory practices, including record keeping. Successful candidates will be detail-oriented, responsible, dependable, organized, with a good sense of judgment. Must have excellent communication skills, both oral and written. Ability to work independently and with a team is important.
Additional Information
- This is a one year term position
- 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
In order to be considered for this position, a cover letter and resume must be submitted.
***All formal offers will be made by FAS Human Resources.
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.