Research Assistant II

12-Feb-2024

Harvard Medical School

64901BR

Position Description

The Department of Health Care Policy (HCP) is a dynamic, data-driven research environment that brings together economists, statisticians, physicians and health services researchers focused on improving public health through comprehensive policy research and education.

Under the direction of Dr. Luca Maini, the Research Assistant (RA) will help coordinate the daily
operations of Dr. Maini’s research projects related to the economics of competition and regulation of pharmaceutical markets. Current projects study the effect of drug prices on patient out-of-pocket costs, the competitive effects of M&A in prescription drug markets, and the pass-through of cost shocks from insurers to patients.

The RA will use statistical software to work with large data sets, including insurance claims datasets. This work will involve the development of data files that can be analyzed (i.e., ‘cleaning the data’) and using statistical analysis (under the supervision of the PI) to analyze the data. The RA will also be expected to have strong writing skills to allow for the drafting of manuscripts based on the analyses.

The RA will also support the development of grant applications and preparing presentations. They will participate in team meetings and (as needed) take minutes of meetings for distribution to the team. They will assist in literature reviews as needed and in preparing and revising manuscripts for publication. The RA will also assist with Institutional Review Board (IRB) applications and Data Use Agreement (DUA) renewals, and other projects as needed.

Basic Qualifications

• One or more years of related research experience. Higher education may count toward years of experience.
• Applicant should have proficiency in using statistical software such as STATA and/or SAS.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• A background in statistical programming (competency in STATA and SAS, but especially STATA is preferred) and a basic understanding of economics/econometrics are strongly encouraged.
• BA or BS, preferably in the field of specific research study, with a preference for coursework in a social science field (economics, statistics, or sociology with a quantitative focus).
• Must demonstrate interest, experience, or background in health economics.
• Must be proficient with most computer software, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Competency with LaTeX preferred. Must learn other software as needed. Independent judgment, patience, and excellent communication skills are required to respond efficiently to varied/complex tasks.
• Organization and attention to detail are a must.
• Flexibility and the ability to work with a team are essential.
• Must be able to maintain a calm and cooperative attitude during periods of increased staff activity.

Additional Information

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. 

The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up-to-date on CDC-recommended vaccines.

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

The Harvard Medical School is not able to provide visa sponsorship for this position.

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Work Format Details

This is a hybrid position that is based in Massachusetts. 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.

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.

Department Office Location

USA - MA - Boston

Job Code

403113 Research Assistant II Non-Lab

Work Format

Hybrid (partially on-site, partially remote)

Department

Health Care Policy

Union

55 - Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers

Pre-Employment Screening

Criminal, Identity

Schedule

35 hrs. per week | Monday - Friday | 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

We are committed to cultivating an inclusive workplace culture of faculty, staff, and students with diverse backgrounds, styles, abilities, and motivations. We appreciate and leverage the capabilities, insights, and ideas of all individuals. Harvard Medical School Mission and Community Values

https://hms.harvard.edu/about-hms/campus-culture/mission-community-values-diversity-statement

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.

LinkedIn Recruiter Tag (for internal use only)

#LI-RA1