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Job description:

The Research Associate (RA) position reports directly to faculty supervisors. 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. Under the general direction of Faculty member(s), RAs will develop, design, and conduct research projects; develop interview structures, questions and conduct interviews; gather, analyze, edit, and draft all forms of academic writing; produce original written materials; conduct background research, draft new cases, and update existing cases or materials for classroom use; use knowledge of qualitative research methodologies to further research findings; design new databases, surveys and experiments.

Primary duties:

Work under the general direction of an HBS faculty member in the Business, Government, and the International Economy unit on topics central to HBS research agenda. Provide subject-area knowledge, analysis, and interpretation to faculty member.

Develop, conduct and analyze social science research with a focus on Indian politics, economic development and education policy.
Write draft cases and articles, case supplements, project reports, and policy memos creating original writing based on research and interviews. Independently manage all timelines and deliverables for multiple projects with competing priorities.

Provide analysis, editing, and drafts for book manuscripts, academic journal articles, HBS cases and HBS teaching notes. Develop, synthesize and provide analysis of literature reviews.
Create content for multi-media projects to be used as teaching and case supplements.

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. When confronted with unexpected research data, be able to make deductions, add insight, and draw conclusions to share with faculty. Collaborate in development of new techniques and instruments. Make recommendations to and create original written material for faculty based on independent research.

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.

Under general direction of faculty member must be able to take complex research ideas, concepts, and methodologies and apply them to new projects and situations. Must be able to structure assignments and keep faculty member informed as necessary, using own judgment.

Basic Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in a writing-intensive program required, preferably in Political Science, Sociology, Public Policy, or allied field in the social sciences. Research interest in Indian politics and economic development required. Evidence of outstanding academic achievement. Indication of independent research experience and/or applied experience. Proven ability to work independently and creatively. This position requires an individual capable of consistent use of discretion, judgment, and initiative. Background in analysis and interpretation of relevant data, research, news, and literature is necessary. Evidence of prior high-quality, original academic writing required. All positions will be given a writing exam. Ability to read academic, subject-specific information and write a reasoned and thoughtful analysis necessary. Diplomatic skills, comfort in interacting with prominent individuals, and grace under pressure are essential. Strong skills related to the Microsoft Office Suite are expected. Basic knowledge of statistics and statistical software preferable. Experience studying or working in India preferable.

Must be eligible to work in the United States, without needing the University’s visa sponsorship.

Additional Qualifications:

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. Preference for candidate who plans to seek an advanced degree in the social sciences.

Note:
Please note, this is a ½ time appointment from 7/1/15 – 6/30/16 with potential for re-appointment. ½ time positions can be paired together to create a full-time opportunity.

To Apply:

To be considered, please share a resume, cover letter, transcript, and writing sample to Laura Kelley at LKelley@hbs.edu.