Research Assistant II

Research Assistant II

Harvard University invites candidates to support the Open Canopy project, an international online learning community focused on slow journalism and cross‑cultural dialogue. The role is part‑time (20 hours per week) with a hybrid work arrangement in Cambridge, MA, and will run until June 30, 2026.

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's mission with innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to diversity. The Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE) is a well‑known hub for education research and practice, and this position offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge curriculum development and research.

Job Summary: The Research Assistant II will support day‑to‑day operations of the Open Canopy, manage social media, provide technical and pedagogical assistance to educators, curate student work, and explore ways to integrate AI into programming. The role also includes developing new curriculum materials, conducting literature reviews, and participating in qualitative data analysis.

• General organizational support (attending meetings, preparing materials, tracking participation).
• Day‑to‑day platform management (reviewing student work, maintaining contact with educators).
• Contribute to project ideas and materials, including literature reviews, instructional resources, publications, and presentations.
• Manage social media accounts and conduct external outreach.

Basic Qualifications: Post‑high‑school training (preferably in education or a related field). One to two years of experience in K‑12 intercultural dialogue and exchange (internships or coursework may count). Strong attention to detail, excellent writing and analytical skills, good communication in social media, and video editing experience preferred.

Additional

Qualifications and Skills:

Bachelor’s degree preferred. Comfortable communicating across diverse audiences, working independently and collaboratively, tolerant of ambiguity, iterative process, and a sense of humor. Experience with online educational platforms, journalism, and AI is a plus.

• Appointment End Date:
  Date of Hire until June 30, 2026.
• Standard Hours/
  
  Schedule:
  
  20 hours per week, part‑time.
• Visa Sponsorship:
  Harvard University does not sponsor visas for this position.
• Pre‑Employment Screening:
  Identity verification.

The position allows for work at a non‑Harvard location that is a Harvard‑registered state. Specific scheduling and location details will be discussed during the interview process.

This position is salary grade level 053. Refer to Harvard’s Salary Ranges for details.

• Generous paid time off, including parental leave.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance starting 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.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other protected characteristic. Harvard’s policies help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.