Programmer, IT​/Tech, Data Scientist

Job Summary

The Department of Biostatistics is a very busy and diverse department focused on research and teaching. Our 70+ faculty are leaders in the development of statistical methods for clinical trials and observational studies, studies on the environment, computational biology, and genomics/genetics. We offer degree programs in biostatistics, computational biology and data science; currently, more than 180 students are enrolled in these programs.

Our team invites applications for a Programmer position in the National Studies on Air Pollution and Health group (https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).). The position will be under the supervision of Principal Research Scientist, Dr. Danielle Braun, in Biostatistics.

We are seeking a Programmer to join our dynamic team. Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Assist with developing and deploying data cleaning, data processing pipelines, data management, variable creation, and variable naming protocols of projects involving electronic health records, administrative claims data, environmental exposure data, and other complex databases using Git Hub
• Maintain databases using R, Python, and SQL in collaboration with members of the research team
• Create and link customized databases and analytic datasets in UNIX environments
• Assist in the development, maintenance, and documentation of software in R (including R functions), Python, and SQL
• Function as a resource for the Senior Programmer, to help debug programs and to access correct data
• Work on HPC computing clusters and work with cluster computing IT to troubleshoot any issues in collaboration with the Senior Programmer and other team members
• Develop and refactor code for modular data processing pipelines, utilizing workflow languages and configuration managers
• Perform data exploration for preparation of datasets for environmental health research
• Build deployable data products using containers for data processing pipelines and dashboards
• Support data cataloging via JSON‑based metadata schema
• Perform other duties as assigned

PLEASE NOTE:

This position has a term end date of June 30, 2026, with the possibility of extension.

PLEASE NOTE:

Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit work samples (sample code) and/or complete a coding assessment.

• 2+ years post‑secondary experience required, or combination of education and/or relevant work experience
• Professional working experience with R, Python, SQL, Git Hub, and/or related software required

• Bachelor's or Master’s Degree in Statistics, Data Science, Computer Science, Mathematics, Informatics, or other health data related field preferred;
  Master's Degree in a related field is strongly preferred*
• Knowledge of maintenance and support of IT infrastructure systems within a HPC cluster environment
• Effective written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, as well as efficiency and time management skills
• Organized with attention to detail and accuracy
• Experience collaborating with all levels of research team; demonstrated team performance skills
• Service oriented mindset and approach
• Desirable experience with version control for team development
• Awareness of and aptitude to appropriately and effectively understand, respect, and adapt to cultural and identity‑based difference within group environments
• Knowledge of and commitment to concepts and issues tied to social justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Skills related to creating and supporting an environment that allows for inclusion, effective intercultural engagement, and personal humility and authenticity
• Experience fostering and reinforcing an environment that values unique experiences, cultures, backgrounds, and goals

June 30, 2026 with the possibility of extension

35 hours per week

Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position

Identity, Education

• 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

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.