HMS - Research Associate in the Department of Cell Biology at Harvard University – Cambridge, Massachusetts

Harvard University

Position

Details

TitleHMS - Research Associate in the Department of Cell BiologySchoolHarvard Medical SchoolDepartment/AreaHMS - Cell BiologyPosition DescriptionWe are looking for an individual that will support our research efforts in transcription and DNA replication biology by facilitating cell culture requirements and protein production requirements across relevant single and multi subunit protein (complexes). The individual will also support general lab ordering and lab organization tasks and maintain common laboratory stocks. The candidate needs to be familiar with general molecular biology workflows (including but not limited to SDS-PAGE, agarose gel, cloning etc.), well-versed in aseptic techniques, and familiar with eukaryotic transcription systems (e.g. insect cell culture and mammalian cell culture).

The successful candidate will work with Dr. Lucas Farnung within the scope of the lab’s research focus. In addition to supporting research, the successful candidate will be expected to apply for fellowship funding, contribute to the writing of grants and manuscripts, participate in teaching and mentoring of lab members as needed, and otherwise contribute to overall lab operations and collaborative environment.

Salary and Benefits

This position is salaried and benefits eligible.

With this appointment, you are represented by the Harvard Academic Workers (HAW) – UAW for purposes of collective bargaining and matters affecting your compensation and working conditions.

• Basic QualificationsPh.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in areas such as biological sciences or related fields.
• Knowledge in eukaryotic cell culture system, molecular cloning, molecular biology techniques, aseptic technique.

Additional QualificationsSpecial Instructions Required documents:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Statement of Research for PhD work
• Cover Letter describing your interest in the lab and initial ideas for new research directions or projects you could undertake in the lab.
• Note with names and contact information for three people who have agreed to serve as your reference

Please submit application documents through the ARIeS portal. Applications will be considered on March 09, 2026. Selected candidates will be invited for in-person interviews involving a research presentation on past work.

Expected Dates

• Application deadline: 03/09/2026
• Start date: The position is expected to start on or around 03/16/2026 with some flexibility.
• Duration: This is a one-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance, business need, and continued funding to support the position.

Contact InformationHMS – Dept. of Cell Biology

240 Longwood Ave., Farnung Lab

Boston, MA 02115

Contact EmailLucas_Farnung@hms.harvard.edu; xheni_vaqari@hms.harvard.eduSalary RangeThis position is salaried and benefits eligible.

Minimum Number of References RequiredMaximum Number of References AllowedKeywords

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment StatementHarvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard’s academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university’s non-discrimination policy. Harvard’s equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

1. Curriculum Vitae
2. Cover Letter
3. Statement of Research
4. Note

Optional Documents

1. Publication