Research Assistant I

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.

The Zheng Lab in the Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology at Harvard Medical School is seeking a Research Assistant (RA) to support research focused on the application of chemical biology towards building cancer therapeutics. The RA will perform routine laboratory experiments using a variety of techniques, including organic compound synthesis, recombinant DNA cloning and analysis, protein purification and analysis, and mammalian cell culture. There will also be opportunities to gain experience in high-throughput screening and mass spectrometry, as well as assisting with more complex experiments. The incumbent will also be responsible for supporting general lab operations such as ordering, managing supply inventory, preparing reagents, maintaining lab safety polices, and other tasks relating to day-to-day lab operations. 

The lab offers a dynamic and collaborative academic environment with ample opportunities for individuals interested in conducting cutting-edge biomedical research. For more details about the Zheng Lab, please see the lab website (https://sites.harvard.edu/zheng/).

Basic Qualifications:

• College background or equivalent work experience, preferably in a related discipline (at least 1 year related work experience - relevant course work may count towards experience).

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• 1-2 years of hands-on research experience in a biology or chemistry laboratory preferred.
• Experience with chemical synthesis, cell culture, protein expression, and standard molecular biology methods a plus.

• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week | Monday - Friday | 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity

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. 

Please note that we are currently conducting a majority of interviews and onboarding remotely and virtually. We appreciate your understanding.

Not ready to apply? Join our talent community to keep in touch and learn about future opportunities! https://www.gem.com/form?formID=16341e35-cbc6-4904-88a3-09b35763307e

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.