Job Description

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences?

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) is the historic heart of Harvard University. It is the home of Harvard’s undergraduate program (Harvard College, founded in 1636) as well as all of Harvard’s Ph.D. programs (the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division of Continuing Education. The 40 academic departments and 30+ centers of the FAS support a community unparalleled in its academic excellence across the broadest range of liberal arts and sciences disciplines. Together, the FAS seeks to foster an environment of ambition, curiosity and shared commitment to knowledge and truth that elicits excellence from all members of our community and prepares the next generation of leaders through a transformative educational experience.

Job Description

Job Summary:

The Extavour Lab is a collection of developmental biologists, molecular biologists, geneticists, cell biologists, zoologists, and evolutionary biologists. Our shared interest is in the evolution of the genetic mechanisms employed during early animal embryogenesis to specify cell fate, development and differentiation. We focus primarily on the evolution and development of reproductive systems, including both the germ line and the somatic components of the gonad.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

The Extavour Lab seeks to hire a Research Assistant I. This position performs a variety research tasks for the Extavour laboratory research projects, within specific guidelines and under the direction of the Principle Investigator (PI) and other research staff.

Typical Duties:

1. Performs laboratory experiments utilizing specific and proscribed techniques and equipment.
2. Prepares matter for analysis and diagnosis, performing duties such as dissecting and staining tissue, mounting slides, and preparing complex chemical solutions and media.
3. Collects project data and records results of experiments according to standard laboratory techniques.
4. Under direction, processes, organizes and summarizes data, reporting experiment results using scientific software.
5. As a member of a project team, may assist in the design of laboratory experiments, techniques, and protocols.
6. May perform routine logging and/or testing of samples.
7. May maintain cultures and other experimental matter, requiring knowledge of laboratory techniques.
8. May operate scientific equipment, requiring a high degree of skill and/or precision.
9. Performs related laboratory maintenance such as maintaining and cleaning equipment and ordering supplies.

Working Conditions:

• Work is typically performed in a laboratory setting on campus in Cambridge, MA.
• May be required to work with a variety of hazardous materials.
• May be required to work with and handle animals.

Physical Requirements:

• May be required to lift, move and transport related laboratory equipment.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications (required):

• College background in science or biology.
• At least one year of experience in Drosophila laboratory work required.

Additional Qualifications and Skills (preferred):

• Candidates should have a bachelor's degree in a discipline of science/biology.
• Candidates must understand and follow good laboratory practices, including record keeping.
• Successful candidates will be detail-oriented, responsible, dependable, organized, with a good sense of judgment.
• Must have excellent communication skills both oral and written.
• Ability to work independently and with a team is important.

Additional Information

• Appointment End Date: This is a one year term position with the possibility of extension based on funding.
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 40 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, and reference checks required

Other Information:

***All formal offers will be made by FAS Human Resources.

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 052. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information.

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:

• 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

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

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.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting 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 or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.