Research Associate

Harvard University - Boston, MA

Full-time - Entry Level

Hybrid - Boston, MA

Educational Services

About the position

Harvard Business School (HBS) is seeking a qualified candidate for a Research Associate (RA) position. This role is ideal for intellectually ambitious researchers who are interested in pursuing doctoral studies in management, accounting, or applied economics disciplines, as well as those looking to build a research career. The position will provide exposure to both applied quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, as well as opportunities to engage with executives, analysts, and investors in the field. The RA will work closely with two faculty members from the Accounting and Management unit at HBS, focusing on research topics such as corporate governance, empirical asset pricing, performance measurement and compensation, and management systems for strategy execution and growth, particularly in scaling ventures and managing geographically dispersed retail and service organizations. The RA position requires a high level of independence, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to exercise discretionary judgment. The successful candidate will support the development and execution of various research projects, conduct background research for literature reviews and case materials, and interpret and codify qualitative data. Additionally, the RA will utilize statistical programs to clean and analyze quantitative data, create datasets, and run analyses. Advanced knowledge of quantitative techniques, including robust causal inference methods or machine learning analysis, will be essential for furthering research findings. The RA will also assist in developing surveys, executing field experiments, and managing special projects, such as creating videos. Other duties may be assigned as needed.

Responsibilities

• Support the development and execution of research projects
• Conduct background research for literature reviews and case materials
• Interpret and codify qualitative data
• Use statistical programs to clean up quantitative data, create datasets, and run analyses
• Utilize advanced knowledge of quantitative techniques such as robust causal inference methods or machine learning analysis
• Support the development of surveys and assist with field experiments and special projects
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a quantitative field (Economics, Statistics, Computer Science, etc.)
• Evidence of outstanding academic achievement
• Statistical/programming expertise and/or applied experience with STATA and SAS
• Demonstrated intellectual curiosity and strong quantitative background
• Excellent writing skills and ability to use discretionary judgment
• Extremely high standards in quality of work, attention to detail, and organizational skills
• Independence, initiative, and commitment to task completion
• Diplomatic skills and comfort in interacting with individuals under pressure
• Ability to balance multiple tasks and shift priorities under tight deadlines
• Strong skills in Microsoft Office Suite; knowledge of Latex is a plus.

Nice-to-haves

• Master's degree preferred

Benefits

• Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year, 12 accrued sick days, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess, 3 personal days per year, and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary caregivers.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, with most coverage beginning on the start date.
• Child and elder/adult care resources, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, and meditation.
• University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings, with full vesting after 3 years of service.
• Tuition Assistance Program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
• Tuition Reimbursement Program providing 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
• Professional Development programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
• Various commuter options including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes, and biking benefits.
• Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and discounts to various services and cultural activities throughout metro-Boston.