Research Assistant: Pharmaceutical Policy and Regulation

Program On Regulation, Therapeutics, And Law (PORTAL)

Recruitment began on February 3, 2026 and the job listing expires on April 5, 2026.

The Program On Regulation, Therapeutics, And Law (PORTAL) in the Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacoeconomics within the Department of Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School invites applications for Research Assistants to support empirical research focused on prescription medication use, regulation, and affordability
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About PORTAL

Established in 2012, PORTAL is one of the nation’s largest academic research centers dedicated to investigating the economic, legal, and clinical challenges of medication use, regulation, and cost. Our vibrant community of more than 15 research fellows, trainees, and staff, led by five renowned Harvard Medical School faculty, brings together expertise in medicine, law, economics, ethics, and health policy to conduct rigorous research to inform policy making.

PORTAL research assistants work under the direction of our faculty and postdoctoral research fellows. Job responsibilities include data collection, data analysis, and supporting the writing or editing of empirical research studies for publication in peer‑reviewed medical and health policy journals. Research assistants also support faculty members with writing and submitting grants, presenting and disseminating our research, and assisting with other administrative tasks as needed.

This paid position exposes new college graduates to the intersection of medicine, law, and health policy, offering significant work experience and built‑in support for graduate school applications. In addition, our faculty members are dedicated to supporting research assistants as they take the next steps in their careers, and PORTAL alumni have gone on to have successful careers in medicine, public health, public policy, law, and more.

This position is benefits‑eligible, with a starting annual salary in the range of $40,000‑$50,000. Individuals with additional post‑baccalaureate training (e.g., Master’s degree, work experience) may qualify for additional compensation. Research assistants are expected to begin in the summer of 2026 and be based in the Boston area for the duration of their position. A minimum two‑year time commitment is typically required.

Applications are invited from recent college graduates or graduating seniors who will complete undergraduate training by May 2026. Candidates with experience or a demonstrated interest in health policy are strongly preferred.

Requirements for successful candidates include:

• Demonstrated academic excellence
• Experience with research, data analysis, or statistics
• Strong writing and editing skills
• Excellent critical thinking and analytic skills
• Adaptability and flexibility
• Ability to support multiple projects concurrently
• Ability to work independently and in small teams
• Reliability in meeting schedules and deadlines

To apply , please submit the following materials via the linked application form by 11:59pm ET on March 15, 2026
:

• a cover letter describing your research skills and experience, your interest in pharmaceutical policy, and career goals;
• a resume or CV;
• an unofficial transcript from your most recent degree program.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.