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Why join the Harvard Kennedy School?

The John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University is one of 12 graduate and professional schools at the university. Harvard Kennedy School’s mission is to improve public policy and leadership so people can live in societies that are more safe, free, just, and sustainably prosperous. By combining cutting-edge research, the teaching of outstanding students, and direct interaction with practitioners, we have an impact on solving public problems that no other institution can match. When you work at Harvard Kennedy School, you make a difference.

The Belfer Center seeks a Research Coordinator to support the Belfer Center’s Applied History Project by conducting Applied History research and coordinating operations for the project. The Research Coordinator will report to the Associate Director of the Applied History Project. 

The Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs is the hub of Harvard Kennedy School's research, teaching, and training in international security and diplomacy, environmental and resource issues, and science and technology policy. In 2021, the Belfer Center was named a “Center of Excellence” by the University of Pennsylvania’s Think Tanks and Civil Societies Program, in recognition of the Center’s six consecutive years as the world’s #1 university-affiliated think tank.

The Center has a dual mission: (1) to provide leadership in advancing policy-relevant knowledge about the most important challenges of international security and other critical issues where science, technology, environmental policy, and international affairs intersect; and (2) to prepare future generations of leaders for these arenas.

We believe that creating a diverse and inclusive organization is central to our ability to achieve our mission. It is our goal to promote historically underrepresented groups within our organization and within the fields of science and international affairs.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

The Research Coordinator will play a key role in:

• Tracking the activities of the worldwide Applied History network and writing the monthly Applied History Network Newsletter.

• Conducting research on Applied History methods and supporting the production of instructional materials.

• Conducting Applied History research on issues in U.S. foreign policy, international order, nuclear security, and the role of history in public life and higher education.

• Coordinating logistics and supporting agenda development for private working group meetings and events for the Harvard community.

• Assisting in the administration of the Ernest May Fellowship.

• Managing the Applied History Project’s website and social media.

• Other related job duties, as required.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Master’s degree in History is preferred, though we will consider candidates who have a bachelor’s degree with extraordinary academic or professional credentials.

• 2+ years of related work experience preferred but not required.

• Significant knowledge of, and interest in, international history, current international security issues, research methods, and higher education. Relevant coursework will count toward experience.

• Exceptional writing skills, ability to remain organized, and competence coordinating logistics for events.

• Demonstrated ability to work with minimal supervision under tight deadlines.

• Appointment End Date: This is a fully benefits-eligible term appointment ending one year from date of hire with the possibility of renewal.
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education
• Other Information: This is an in-person/on campus position based in Cambridge, MA, with possible flexible work options.

All applicants must submit the following as part of a complete application:

(1) Cover letter of 300 words or less

(2) Résumé or CV

(3) Official or unofficial transcript

(4) Analytic writing sample of 20 pages or less

(5) Names and contact information for three references

The first date of application review is October 10, 2026.  After that, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Evaluation of qualified candidates may include a written assessment exercise which may be followed by competency-based interviews with Dr. Justin Winokur, the Associate Director of the Applied History Project, and Professor Graham Allison, the Director of the Applied History Project and the Douglas Dillon Professor of Government at the Harvard Kennedy School.

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 054. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information. 

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard 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.