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Why join the Harvard Graduate School of Education?
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Many choose to work at the Harvard Graduate School of Education because they believe in our mission and are excited by our vision for the future. We have a reputation as a great place to work, for our excellent leadership, and we are a strong community that values diversity. For more information about HGSE, its programs, research, and faculty, please visit: www.gse.harvard.edu.
Job Description
Project Zero is a research unit in the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Its mission is to understand and enhance learning, thinking, and creativity in the arts, as well as humanistic and scientific disciplines, at the individual and institutional levels.
Under nominal direction, the Research Assistant will support a national, 15-month mixed-methods study investigating how students and professionals in high-need fields (such as education, healthcare, and skilled trades) understand the value of postsecondary credentials beyond economic return. The project explores concepts such as meaning, identity, purpose, and social contribution in education and work. The Research Assistant will assist with data collection, coding, project coordination, and general research and clerical tasks. Responsibilities will be carried out under supervision and as part of a collaborative research team.
Job-Specific Responsibilities:
- Assists in collecting project data through structured interviews, surveys, and focus groups; supports recruitment, scheduling, and tracking of research participants.
- Codes, enters, and organizes both qualitative and quantitative data in accordance with established project protocols; may review transcripts or take notes during interviews.
- Uses tools such as Qualtrics, Excel, or ATLAS.ti to process, summarize, and help report on research findings.
- Prepares summaries or brief reports of project status for the research team; attends and supports regular team meetings.
- May assist in the preparation of draft survey instruments or early-stage prototypes; supports data entry and document formatting.
- Contributes to maintaining project records, including tracking participant incentives, updating IRB documentation, and ensuring data is stored securely.
- Performs clerical and coordination duties such as preparing agendas and notes, managing project files, and supporting virtual event logistics.
- May assist with basic communications tasks such as proofreading blog posts, formatting presentations, or helping maintain website content.
Working Conditions:
This is a part-time (50% FTE) position. Work may be conducted remotely, with participation in virtual interviews and meetings across U.S. time zones. Occasional travel may be required based on project needs. The position may require use of digital meeting tools and transport of project materials.
Qualifications
Basic Qualifications:
- College background or equivalent experience, preferably in education, sociology, social sciences, or a related field
Candidates should submit a cover letter and resume as a single PDF document. Any applicant wishing to be considered for this position should indicate that they meet all of the basic requirements in either the cover letter or resume.
This is a PT (17.5hours a week) position with a term appointment until Nov 30, 2026, from the date of hire.
The position is currently a hybrid position with 2 days in the Cambridge office and 3 days remote.
Additional Qualifications and Skills:
- One to two years of related research experience (academic coursework or supervised research experience may count).
- Exposure to research methods and tools such as Qualtrics, Excel, and/or coding software (e.g., NVivo, Dedoose, or ATLAS.ti) preferred.
- Strong organizational and communication skills; attention to detail.
- Familiarity with research populations and sensitivity to working with diverse communities.
- Ability to work collaboratively and follow established procedures in a research environment.
Additional Information
- Appointment End Date: Nov 30, 2026
- Standard Hours/Schedule: 17.5 hours per week
- 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
Work Format Details
This is a position that is based at a Harvard campus location with some remote work options available. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. All remote work must be performed within one of the Harvard Registered Payroll States, which currently includes Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Virginia, Washington, and California (CA for exempt positions only). 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.