Research Assistant III

Description

Harvard Medical School Department of Health Care Policy seeks a full‑time Research Assistant to support Professor Nicole Maestas, an economist, on daily operations of research projects in health and labor economics.

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.

Harvard Medical School's mission is to nurture a diverse, inclusive community dedicated to alleviating suffering and improving health and well‑being for all through excellence in teaching and learning, discovery and scholarship, and service and leadership.

You’ll be at the heart of biomedical discovery, education, and innovation, working alongside world‑renowned faculty and a community dedicated to improving human health. This is more than a job – it’s an opportunity to shape the future of medicine.

The Research Assistant will support daily operations of research projects in the fields of health and labor economics, including topics on disability insurance, work capacity and employment, health insurance and health care utilization, and disparities in access to mental health care.

Using statistical software, the Research Assistant will work with large data sets, including possibly health insurance claims datasets. This work will involve cleaning and developing data files as well as conducting econometric and statistical analysis to analyze the data. A background in statistical programming (STATA and/or R preferred) and a basic understanding of economics/econometrics is strongly encouraged.

The Research Assistant is expected to have strong critical thinking and excellent writing skills to assist with drafting manuscripts, presentations, and grant proposals. The Research Assistant will also participate in team meetings, conduct literature reviews, and assist with IRB, data use applications, and progress reports. This position is ideal for candidates with an interest in economics and/or health policy and who have plans for future doctoral studies.

As part of your application, we recommend including a cover letter that will help us better understand your qualifications and background. In your cover letter, please address the following:

• Your interest in this position.
• Your familiarity with programming languages (e.g., STATA, R, SAS, SQL, etc.).
• Your prior experience as a research assistant and/or independent research projects (e.g., a thesis); please describe quantitative analysis tasks you performed.

• Two or more years of related research experience. Higher education may count toward years of experience.
• Proficiency in using statistical software packages such as STATA and/or R.

• BA or BS in economics, statistics, public policy with a quantitative focus, or related field.
• Interest, experience, or background in disability, labor, health policy and/or aging.
• Proficiency with standard computer software such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Proficiency in LaTeX encouraged.
• Willingness to learn other software as needed (e.g., SAS, R).
• Independent judgment, patience, and excellent communication skills are required to respond efficiently to varied/complex tasks.
• Organization and attention to detail is a must.
• Flexibility and the ability to work with a team are essential.
• Maintain a calm and cooperative attitude during periods of increased activity.

• Term:
  One‑year term position from the date of hire, with possibility of extension contingent upon work performance and continued funding.
• Standard Hours/
  
  Schedule:
  
  35 hrs. per week | Monday – Friday | 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Visa Sponsorship Information:
  Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• Pre‑Employment Screening:
  Identity, Criminal
• Other Information:
  Interviews and onboarding are conducted remotely and virtually.
• Staying Informed About Your Application:
  Track status anytime through…