Research Associate - Social Media and Communications

Please note only applicants who apply online via HarvardCareers will be considered. 

The nature and scope of work is rapidly changing, creating massive business and political challenges. Managing the Future of Work (MFW) initiative was created to define these workplace issues and their implications for business leaders.

Under the general direction of Professors Joe Fuller and Bill Kerr, the Research Associate (RA) will assist with the identification, exploration, and translation of topics central to the Managing the Future of Work agenda. This person will support design, editing, and publishing of research materials under the MFW project. 

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

Primary Duties:

• Work under the general direction of HBS faculty on topics central to MFW research agenda.  Provide subject-area knowledge, analysis, and interpretation to faculty member. 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, while collaborating with team members.
• Provide qualitative analysis, writing, and editing of presentation materials, HBS cases, and HBS teaching notes.  Propose, develop, synthesize, and provide analysis of literature reviews.
• Collect and assemble data from complex and disparate sources.  Create original, thought-provoking, innovative presentations, content, and writings for domestic and international audiences.
• 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: 

Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Marketing, Communications, or related field required.
Professional social media platform experience desired.
Strong writing skills required.

Additional Qualifications:
Evidence of academic excellence and of prior independent research experience.  Preference for a candidate experienced or well-versed in academic knowledge of business and policy perspectives, globalization, innovation, and/or management. All positions will be given a writing exam.  Ability to read academic, subject-specific information and write a reasoned and thoughtful analysis, as well as produce a creative interpretation, is a must. 

Proven ability to work independently and creatively. 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.   The candidate must be able to balance multiple tasks and shifting priorities under tight deadlines at an accelerated pace when necessary.  

Diplomatic skills, comfort in interacting with prominent individuals, and grace under pressure are essential.   It is helpful if the candidate is familiar with navigating a complex organization, such as Harvard Business School.   

Application Details:

This is a full-time term appointment starting as soon as possible (start date flexible) through June 30, 2024, 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.

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 between 2-4 days per week. Specific days and schedule will be determined between you and your manager. 

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/.