Research Associate

18-Oct-2024

Research Associate

Harvard Business School

67187BR

Position Description

Harvard Business School (HBS) is seeking a full-time Predoctoral Research Associate beginning as soon as possible through June 2025, with potential for re-appointment for the following year. The role involves collaborating with leading researchers such as Shai Bernstein (HBS), Emanuele Colonnelli (University of Chicago), and Paul Gompers (HBS), on cutting-edge projects focusing on entrepreneurship and venture capital in emerging ecosystems globally. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful research through the design and implementation of large-scale surveys and field experiments on a new platform that is under development at Harvard Business School. This role is ideal for candidates who are considering pursuing a Ph.D. in Economics or Finance or Business and have a deep interest in entrepreneurship, venture capital, and economic development. The role provides an excellent stepping stone for those aiming to gain research experience and enhance their academic profile before applying to doctoral programs.

The Predoc will report directly to faculty and administrative manager in the Research Staff Services office. Ideal Predoc candidates will be comfortable in an environment that requires a high level of independence, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to use discretionary judgment.

Primary Duties:

• Use statistical software to work with large data sets, including large administrative data (e.g. financial transactions data for fintech users), unique data from new start-ups (e.g. bankruptcy applications from a legal technology company), and assist with the execution of human subjects experiments.
• Participate in meetings, conduct literature reviews, and assist with IRB, data use applications, and progress reports.
• Independently manage all timelines and deliverables. Exercise independent decision making with regard to progression of research project and methodologies. Must be able to structure assignments and keep faculty member informed as necessary, using own judgment.
• Statistical programming (coding will primarily be done in STATA but experience with R or other programs also qualifies), and a basic understanding of economics and econometrics is strongly encouraged.
• Strong critical thinking and excellent writing skills to assist with drafting of manuscripts, presentations, and grant proposals.
• Responsible for other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree required, with a focus in economics, mathematics, statistics, or related area of study. 

Additional Qualifications and Skills

Advanced degree preferred. Evidence of outstanding academic achievement. Indication of independent research experience and/or applied experience. Strong skills related to the Microsoft Office Suite are expected. Excellent communication, interpersonal, organization, research, analytical, writing, and editing skills are required.

Additional Information

This is a full-time term appointment starting as soon as possible, with likely reappointment for the next year. All Predoctoral Research Associate roles at Harvard Business School are benefits-eligible and structured as one-year term appointments with potential for renewal. Preference for candidates willing to commit for 2 years.

Candidates should not reach out to faculty directly.

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, a cover letter and resume are required for full consideration. Upon the review of application materials, applicants may be asked to submit a writing sample, and transcript(s). All candidates in consideration will be given a writing exam.

Harvard Business School will not offer visa sponsorship for this opportunity.

This role is offered as a hybrid (some combination of onsite and remote) where you are required to be onsite at our Boston, MA based campus. Specific days and schedule will be determined between you and your manager.

Culture of Inclusion: The work and well-being of HBS is profoundly strengthened by the diversity of our network and our differences in background, culture, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, and life experiences. Explore more about HBS work culture here.

About Us

Founded in 1908 as part of Harvard University, Harvard Business School is located on a 40-acre campus in Boston. Its faculty of more than 250 offers full-time programs leading to the MBA and PhD degrees, as well as more than 175 Executive Education programs, and Harvard Business School Online, the School’s digital learning platform. For more than a century, faculty have drawn on their research, their experience in working with organizations worldwide, and their passion for teaching, to educate leaders who make a difference in the world. The School and its curriculum attract the boldest thinkers and the most collaborative learners who will go on to shape the practice of business and entrepreneurship around the globe.

Benefits

We invite you to visit Harvard's Total Rewards website (https://hr.harvard.edu/totalrewards) to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:

• Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
• Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
• Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
• Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
• Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
• Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
• Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
• Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.

Job Function

Research

Department Office Location

USA - MA - Boston

Job Code

RS0055 Researcher I Humanities

Work Format

Hybrid (partially on-site, partially remote)

Sub-Unit

------------

Salary Grade

055

Department

Division of Research and Faculty Development

Union

00 - Non Union, Exempt or Temporary

Time Status

Full-time

Appointment End Date

30-Jun-2026

Pre-Employment Screening

Education, Identity

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Harvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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