Research Associate; Writing Focused

Overview

Harvard Business School is seeking multiple Research Associates to support faculty members on writing and content‑focused projects. The role reports directly to faculty supervisors and the Research Staff Services office. Ideal candidates are independent, intellectually curious, and use discretion.

• Work under the general direction of HBS faculty on topics central to the HBS research agenda. Provide subject‑area knowledge, analysis, and interpretation to faculty members and identify and explore a wide range of questions related to their research agenda.
• Write cases, case supplements, project reports, and drafts for a book project from start to finish, creating original writing based on subject‑area expertise, research, and interviews, and write articles for applicable business audiences such as Harvard Business Review.
• Take complex research ideas, concepts, and methodologies and apply them to new projects and situations; structure assignments and keep faculty members informed as necessary, using own judgment.
• Build trust and collaboration by being present on‑site and engaging directly with colleagues and various constituents.
• Responsible for other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree with a GPA above 3.5 is required.
• Prior experience supporting short‑form writing and website project management preferred.

• Evidence of prior high‑quality, original academic writing and background in analysis and interpretation of relevant data, research, news, and literature.
• Ability to read academic, subject‑specific information and produce a reasoned, thoughtful analysis, as well as a creative interpretation.
• Extremely high standards in terms of quality of work, attention to detail, strong organization skills, and absolute commitment to task completion.
• Ability to balance multiple tasks and shifting priorities under tight deadlines at an accelerated pace when necessary.
  • Familiarity with navigating a complex organization such as Harvard Business School is helpful, but not required.

Term appointments starting summer 2026 through June 30, 2027 with an expectation of reappointment through June 30, 2028 based on funding and performance. All Research Associate roles at HBS are structured as one‑year term appointments, but faculty prefer candidates willing to commit for two years.

40 hours per week.

Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.

• 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. Harvard’s policies prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.