Research Associate, Accounting
The Research Associate (RA) position reports directly to a faculty supervisor in the Accounting and Management unit, 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 and intellectual curiosity and the ability to use discretionary judgment. Under the general direction of a Faculty member in the Accounting and Management Unit, the RA will develop, design and conduct research projects; develop interview structures, questions, and conduct interviews; synthesize, analyze, and produce original written materials for all forms of academic writing; conduct background research, propose and create new cases, and update existing cases or materials for classroom use. The RA will use advanced knowledge of Accounting principles and business acumen.
Primary Duties:
Partner with HBS faculty on topics central to HBS research agenda. Provide advanced subject-area expertise in the area of accounting and financial reporting, analysis, and interpretation to faculty member. Act with a high degree of autonomy. Serve as a collaborator and thought-partner.
Write cases, articles, case supplements, project reports, and policy memos from start to finish creating original writing based on subject-area expertise, research, and interviews. Independently manage all timelines and deliverables for multiple projects with competing priorities.
Provide qualitative analysis, writing, and editing of academic journal articles, HBS cases, and HBS teaching notes. Propose, develop, synthesize, and provide analysis of literature reviews.
Create original, thought-provoking, innovative presentations and writings for domestic and international audiences.
Exercise independent decision making with regard to progression of research project and methodologies.
Represent HBS to outside entities: interacting with prominent individuals (grace under pressure is essential). Interview decision makers at companies around the world and work closely with company representatives on the case development and course development efforts (e.g., case supplements, rewrites, teaching notes, and multimedia products). Perform on-site field research, interviews (local, regional and international level).
Ensure compliance with department, University and federal regulations. Complete work with only general direction. Be aware of department, School, University policies and potential outside research policies.
Other duties as assigned.
Basic Qualifications:
Bachelors degree in related field such as Accounting, Finance, or Management, with significant work experience, or advanced degree required.
Additional Qualifications:
A preference for CPA, MS in Accounting, or MBA.
Evidence of academic excellence. 2-4 years of relevant experience in accounting or related research. The successful candidate must have strong writing and editing skills; have extensive training in accounting; have solid financial, analytical, conceptual skills; work well independently; and be at home in an academic environment. Excellent communication, interpersonal, organization, and research skills are required. Proven ability to work independently and creatively. This position requires an individual capable of consistent use of discretion, judgment, and initiative. Evidence of prior high-quality, original academic writing, and background in analysis and interpretation of relevant financial data, research, news, and literature.
Please Note
This is a full-time term appointment starting as soon as possible through June 30, 2023, with potential for re-appointment for the following year. All HBS RA roles are structured as one-year 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 “COVID-19 Vaccine Information” webpage: http://www.harvard.edu/coronavirus/covid-19-vaccine-information/.
This role is offered as a hybrid (some combination of onsite and remote) where you are required to be onsite at our Boston, MA based campus. Specific days and schedule will be determined between you and your manager.
While we continue to monitor the evolving COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions, we appreciate your understanding and flexibility with our interview process. Please note that we will be conducting interviews virtually (phone and or Zoom) for selected candidates until further notice.
Culture of Inclusion: The work and well-being of HBS is profoundly strengthened by the diversity of our network and our differences in background, culture, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, and life experiences. Explore HBS work culture at https://www.hbs.edu/employment/.