Research Associate

at  Harvard University

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Harvard Business School (HBS) is seeking a full-time Predoctoral Research Associate beginning as soon as possible through June 2025, with potential for re-appointment for the following year. The role involves collaborating with leading researchers such as Shai Bernstein (HBS), Emanuele Colonnelli (University of Chicago), and Paul Gompers (HBS), on cutting-edge projects focusing on entrepreneurship and venture capital in emerging ecosystems globally. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful research through the design and implementation of large-scale surveys and field experiments on a new platform that is under development at Harvard Business School. This role is ideal for candidates who are considering pursuing a Ph.D. in Economics or Finance or Business and have a deep interest in entrepreneurship, venture capital, and economic development. The role provides an excellent stepping stone for those aiming to gain research experience and enhance their academic profile before applying to doctoral programs.
The Predoc will report directly to faculty and administrative manager in the Research Staff Services office. Ideal Predoc 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:

• Use statistical software to work with large data sets, including large administrative data (e.g. financial transactions data for fintech users), unique data from new start-ups (e.g. bankruptcy applications from a legal technology company), and assist with the execution of human subjects experiments.
• Participate in meetings, conduct literature reviews, and assist with IRB, data use applications, and progress reports.
• Independently manage all timelines and deliverables. Exercise independent decision making with regard to progression of research project and methodologies. Must be able to structure assignments and keep faculty member informed as necessary, using own judgment.
• Statistical programming (coding will primarily be done in STATA but experience with R or other programs also qualifies), and a basic understanding of economics and econometrics is strongly encouraged.
• Strong critical thinking and excellent writing skills to assist with drafting of manuscripts, presentations, and grant proposals.
• Responsible for other duties as assigned.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree required, with a focus in economics, mathematics, statistics, or related area of study.

ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

Advanced degree preferred. Evidence of outstanding academic achievement. Indication of independent research experience and/or applied experience. Strong skills related to the Microsoft Office Suite are expected. Excellent communication, interpersonal, organization, research, analytical, writing, and editing skills are required.

ABOUT US

Founded in 1908 as part of Harvard University, Harvard Business School is located on a 40-acre campus in Boston. Its faculty of more than 250 offers full-time programs leading to the MBA and PhD degrees, as well as more than 175 Executive Education programs, and Harvard Business School Online, the School’s digital learning platform. For more than a century, faculty have drawn on their research, their experience in working with organizations worldwide, and their passion for teaching, to educate leaders who make a difference in the world. The School and its curriculum attract the boldest thinkers and the most collaborative learners who will go on to shape the practice of business and entrepreneurship around the globe.

• Use statistical software to work with large data sets, including large administrative data (e.g. financial transactions data for fintech users), unique data from new start-ups (e.g. bankruptcy applications from a legal technology company), and assist with the execution of human subjects experiments.
• Participate in meetings, conduct literature reviews, and assist with IRB, data use applications, and progress reports.
• Independently manage all timelines and deliverables. Exercise independent decision making with regard to progression of research project and methodologies. Must be able to structure assignments and keep faculty member informed as necessary, using own judgment.
• Statistical programming (coding will primarily be done in STATA but experience with R or other programs also qualifies), and a basic understanding of economics and econometrics is strongly encouraged.
• Strong critical thinking and excellent writing skills to assist with drafting of manuscripts, presentations, and grant proposals.
• Responsible for other duties as assigned