Career Center

HBS seeks a Research Associate (RA) to partner with a faculty member in the Organizational Behavior unit during the 2022 - 2023 academic year and possibly further. Under the general direction of the faculty member, the RA will identify and explore a wide-range of questions; provide subject-area knowledge, analysis, and interpretation to faculty member. This is an exciting opportunity for those interested in qualitative research and academic writing focused on leadership, talent management, organizational culture, change, digital transformation, innovation, and related topics.

The RA position reports directly to the faculty supervisor and administrative manager in the Research Staff Services office. Ideal RA candidates will be comfortable in an environment that requires a high level of independence, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to use discretionary judgment.

Primary duties:

Conduct background research: analyze a wide range of primary and secondary sources. Develop, synthesize and provide analysis of literature reviews. Read and efficiently distill information to identify key themes and important areas, which will elicit further research needs.

Design, manage, and conduct qualitative, interview-based research. Exercise independent decision-making with regard to progression of research project and methodologies. Analyze and implement research to produce original writing.

Gather, analyze, edit and draft all forms of academic writing including but not limited to, HBS cases, teaching notes, case supplements, articles, project reports, and policy memos. This appointment will include the writing and editing of a book.

Conduct digital marketing, using social media platforms such as but not limited to Twitter, Instagram, etc.

Independently structure assignments, and manage all timelines and deliverables for multiple projects. Complete work with only general direction. Keep faculty member informed as necessary, using own judgment.

Ensure compliance with department, University, and federal regulations. Be aware of department, School, University policies and potential outside research policies.

Other duties as assigned.


This is a full-time term appointment starting this summer (start date flexible) through June 30, 2023 with likely reappointment for the next academic year and further. All Research Associate roles at HBS are benefits-eligible and structured as one-year term appointments.

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, a cover letter and resume are required for full consideration. Upon the review of application materials, applicants may be asked to submit a writing sample, and transcript(s). All positions will be given a writing exam.

HBS is not able to provide visa sponsorship for this position.

The University requires all Harvard community members to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and remain up to date with COVID-19 vaccine boosters, as detailed in Harvard's Vaccine & Booster Requirements. Individuals may claim exemption from the vaccine requirement for medical or religious reasons. More information regarding the University's COVID vaccination requirement, exemptions, and verification of vaccination status may be found at the University's

Bachelor's degree required. Familiarity/interest in organizational behavior, leadership, sociology, psychology, qualitative research and related fields preferred.
Strong digital marketing background with familiarity using social media platforms preferred.

Excellent writing and editing skills. Evidence of outstanding academic achievement. Indication of independent research experience and/or applied experience. Proven ability to work independently and creatively.

Strong skills related to the Microsoft Office Suite are expected, including the ability to prepare charts, graphs, and use graphics for presentations.


Ability to read academic, subject-specific information and write a reasoned and thoughtful analysis necessary. Background in analysis and interpretation of relevant data, research, news, and literature is necessary. Evidence of prior high-quality, original academic writing required.

This position requires an individual capable of consistent use of discretion, judgment, and initiative.
The candidate must have extremely high standards in terms of quality of work, attention to detail, strong organization skills, and absolute commitment to task completion. He or she must be able to balance multiple tasks and shifting priorities under tight deadlines at an accelerated pace when necessary. It is helpful if the candidate is familiar with navigating a complex organization, such as Harvard Business School.


EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: 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, or any other characteristic protected by law.