Research Associate

24-May-2022

Harvard Business School

56896BR

Position Description

HBS seeks a Research Associate to work closely with a faculty member in the General Management & Entrepreneurial Management units, on research projects focusing on competitiveness, entrepreneurship, and innovation. The Research Associate (RA) position reports directly to faculty supervisor and administrative manager in the Research Staff Services office. The Research Associate will work on course development and case writing, as well as a variety of exciting and high-impact research and policy projects related to entrepreneurship; innovation; financial technology (fintech); and Artificial Intelligence and Big Data

Under the general direction of faculty member, the RA will develop, design, and conduct research projects. They will develop interview structures, questions and conduct interviews; gather, analyze, edit, and draft all forms of academic writing; produce original written materials; conduct background research, draft new cases, and update existing cases or materials for classroom use; use knowledge of qualitative research methodologies to further research findings; design new databases, surveys and experiments. Ideal RA 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 may include:

• Field-based and library-based research, literature reviews, collecting and analyzing qualitative and quantitative data, presenting data in PowerPoint presentations, writing a variety of research-related output, and managing the research agenda.
• Write drafts of articles, case supplements, project reports, and policy memos creating original writing based on research and interviews. Technical writing ability is essential. Narrative writing ability is helpful.
• Independently manage all timelines and deliverables for multiple projects with competing priorities.
• Provide subject-area knowledge, analysis, and interpretation to faculty member.
• Make recommendations to and create original, thought-provoking, innovative presentations and writings for domestic and international audiences.
• Exercise independent decision making with regard to progression of research project and methodologies. When confronted with unexpected research data, be able to make deductions, add insight, and draw conclusions to share with faculty.
• Represent HBS to outside entities: interacting with prominent individuals (grace under pressure is essential).
• Ensure compliance with department, University and federal regulations. Complete work with only general direction. Be aware of department, School, University policies and potential outside research policies.
• Under general direction of faculty member must be able to take complex research ideas, concepts, and methodologies and apply them to new projects and situations. Must be able to structure assignments and keep faculty member informed as necessary, using own judgment.
• Basic understanding of small business issues is helpful, but not required.

Basic Qualifications

BA or BS degree in Business, Economics, Political Science, or similar field is required.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

The ideal candidate will have 2-4 years of consulting or other relevant corporate, non-profit, or government experience, with excellent analytical and communication skills (both written and oral).

Indication of independent research experience and/or applied experience. Proven ability to work independently and creatively. This position requires an individual capable of consistent use of discretion, judgment, and initiative. Background in analysis and interpretation of relevant data, research, news, and literature is necessary. Evidence of prior high-quality, original academic writing required. Ability to read academic, subject-specific information and write a reasoned and thoughtful analysis necessary. Strong skills related to the Microsoft Office Suite are expected, especially PowerPoint and Excel.

The candidate must have extremely high standards in terms of quality of work, attention to detail, strong organization skills, and absolute commitment to task completion. He or she must be able to balance multiple tasks and shifting priorities under tight deadlines at an accelerated pace when necessary. The position requires managing interactions with media and highly-placed individuals in business and government. Diplomatic skills, comfort in interacting with prominent individuals, and grace under pressure are essential. It is helpful if the candidate is familiar with navigating a complex organization, such as Harvard Business School.

Additional Information

This is a full-time term appointment starting summer 2022, through June 30, 2023, with likely extension for the following year. All Research Associate roles at HBS are structured as term appointments. There is a preference for candidates willing to commit for two or more years.

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 positions will be given a writing exam.

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

The University requires all Harvard community members to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and remain up to date with COVID-19 vaccine boosters, as detailed in Harvard’s Vaccine & Booster Requirements. Individuals may claim exemption from the vaccine requirement for medical or religious reasons. More information regarding the University’s COVID vaccination requirement, exemptions, and verification of vaccination status may be found at the University’s “COVID-19 Vaccine Information” webpage: http://www.harvard.edu/coronavirus/covid-19-vaccine-information/.

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.

While we continue to monitor the evolving COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions, we appreciate your understanding and flexibility with our interview process. Please note that we will be conducting interviews virtually (phone and or Zoom) for selected candidates until further notice.

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 HBS work culture at https://www.hbs.edu/employment/.

Location

USA - MA - Boston

Job Code

RS0055 Researcher I Humanities

Department

Division of Research and Faculty Development

Union

00 - Non Union, Exempt or Temporary

Appointment End Date

30-Jun-2023

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.