Research Coordinator

08-Nov-2023

Harvard Kennedy School

64176BR

Job Summary

The Research Coordinatoris responsible for supporting the research and programmatic work of the Allen Lab for Democracy Renovation’s Governance of Emerging Technology and Tech Innovations for Next-Gen Governance through Plurality (GETTING-Plurality) Program, a multi-disciplinary research network that unites tech ethics initiatives at Harvard University with external impact partners across higher education and the tech industry. Candidates must demonstrate familiarity with issues at the intersection of technology and governance, exceptional organization and analytic skills, and willingness to approach problems with creativity and collaboration. The Ash Center is a global and values-driven community that believes diverse perspectives are paramount to better understanding and addressing real-world problems. In fostering an environment of rigor, curiosity, and integrity, we value and respect different opinions, lived experiences, and diverse research and policy areas and approaches. We actively seek candidates who share our commitment and values.

Position Description

Working closely with Professor Danielle Allen and the GETTING-Plurality co-director, the Research Coordinator is a key member of the GETTING-Plurality team, responsible for supporting research and analysis, program coordination, and outreach and dissemination. Principal duties and responsibilities include:

Research Support

• Coordinates and carries out designated research tasks and projects, making use of selected methodology and materials, field work, library research, statistical analysis, or other techniques 
• Contribute to priority projects and deliverables of the GETTING-Plurality research network including publications, convenings, and other outputs
• Partner with fellows and research assistants to drive projects from inception to completion through organizing project materials and milestones, troubleshooting, and coordinating communication across teams

Project Management

• Coordinate logistics for events and convenings, from sending invitations and organizing RSVPs to drafting itineraries and booking travel and accommodations.
• Support and schedule regular meetings, taking notes and minutes and ensuring appropriate follow up
• Draft agreements, progress reports, PowerPoint presentations, correspondence, event budgets and other program materials
• Perform other administrative tasks as needed on behalf of the Allen Lab

Multimedia Dissemination

• Contribute to the dissemination of GETTING-Plurality network research and ideas
• Ideate and plan strategy for the rollout of a GETTING-Plurality podcast, including developing the mission, vision, guest list, and protocols
• Host and execute the podcast in close coordination with co-directors, including inviting guests from among external partners and other scholars and experts in the field

Basic Qualifications

Two years of research or administrative experience, inclusive of relevant coursework and internship/research assistant roles.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

If you have some but not all the following, we encourage you to apply; we value employees with a willingness to learn.

• Bachelor’s degree in social science preferred
• Interest in democracy renovation and technology governance policy research desired
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment including positive attitude, poise and good judgment
• Ability to prioritize work, meet deadlines, and work independently in support of projects from inception through completion
• Strong academic qualifications combining research, writing, presentation, and analytical skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate with people at a variety of levels, including deans, faculty, senior administration, students, peers, and visiting dignitaries
• Entrepreneurial spirit, flexibility, adaptability, and ability to multi-task. Enjoys taking initiative and proposing ways to solve problems
• Learning mindset and willingness to grow into new roles and responsibilities over time 

Additional Information

This position is a fully benefits-eligible term appointment ending one year from date of hire, with possibility of renewal. 

Learn more about our work culture and see yourself at Harvard Kennedy School.

We regret that the Harvard Kennedy School does not provide visa sponsorship.

Harvard University requires pre-employment reference and background checks. 

Harvard University is committed to supporting a healthy, sustainable learning and working environment.

The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up-to-date on CDC-recommended vaccines.

Salary Range: $59,027 – $93,064
Note: Starting salaries typically fall in the lower half of the salary range; however, they are ultimately determined by the scope of the position, the candidate’s relevant experience, and internal equity. 

Work Format Details

This position is eligible for 100% remote work. Employees may work from any of the Harvard Registered Payroll States, which currently includes Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Virginia, Washington, and California (CA for exempt positions only). Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Benefits

We invite you to visit Harvard’s Total Rewards website (https://hr.harvard.edu/totalrewards ) to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:

• Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
• Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
• Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
• Retirement: 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: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 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.
• Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
• Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.

Department Office Location

USA – MA – Cambridge

Job Code

403117 Research Assistant III Non-Lab

Union

55 – Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers

Pre-Employment Screening

Identity

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Harvard Kennedy School’s Mission and Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Anti-Racism

At Harvard Kennedy School, fostering a diverse and inclusive community where everyone feels they belong is a matter of basic fairness consistent with our core values as an institution. It is also essential to our mission of improving public policy and leadership—because recruiting the best people and creating an environment where they can thrive make us better at what we do, because we learn more from people with different perspectives, and because we work in diverse groups and serve diverse societies.

Learn more about Harvard Kennedy School’s commitment to Diversity Equity, and Anti-Racism.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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