Harvard Business School
Website:
hbs.edu
Job details:
The Research Associate (RA) is a key member of the Harvard Business School India Research Center’s research team, supporting faculty in developing case studies and course materials. Faculty lead each project, and the RA works closely with them and other researchers to produce high-quality teaching content for the HBS classroom. In addition to case development, the role includes contributing to case leads, supporting broader research projects, and the thoughtful application of AI tools.
The RA manages multiple projects at different stages, often working with evolving direction and incomplete information. The role requires ownership of timelines, drafts, and deliverables, along with the ability to incorporate feedback from faculty and peers to refine outputs.
The RA also ensures that all work meets HBS case-writing standards and develops familiarity with
pedagogical materials, including case studies, teaching notes, and course overviews.
Key Responsibilities
Reporting to the Assistant Director and Team Lead - Research, the Research Associate will:
- Support the IRC’s research and educational mission by contributing to case studies and academic materials.
- Conduct primary and secondary research, including fieldwork, interviews, and analysis of sources (e.g., company financials, government publications, industry reports, and archival materials).
- Synthesize complex information into clear, structured narratives and supporting exhibits.
- Develop questionnaires, prepare research briefs, and produce written outputs (case drafts, articles, and supporting materials).
- Collaborate with HBS faculty and engage with business leaders, alumni, and institutional partners across the region.
- Support additional research projects, as required.
- Manage multiple projects concurrently, ensuring high standards of accuracy and timeliness.
While the role is primarily that of an individual contributor, it requires a collaborative orientation. The role may involve domestic, regional, and international travel, including visits to the HBS campus.
Qualifications
- A master’s degree (MA/MS), or an equivalent qualification, is strongly preferred.
- Two to three years of relevant professional experience.
Skills and Attributes
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with full professional fluency in English.
- Strong analytical ability, with the capacity to synthesize complex information clearly.
- Ability to work effectively with ambiguity and deliver under tight timelines.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy and quality.
- Receptiveness to feedback and the ability to iterate work quickly.
- Collaborative mindset and openness to peer learning.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of ownership.
- Sound understanding of South Asian business environments and institutional contexts.
- Professional maturity and judgment in engaging with faculty and senior stakeholders.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
Application Requirements
Candidates should submit the following materials as part of their application:
- A one-page statement outlining their interest in the Harvard Business School India Research Center, alignment with long-term career goals, and relevant experience.
- A current curriculum vitae (CV).
- Academic transcripts, including 10th and 12th grade scores (overall and subject-wise).
- Undergraduate and postgraduate academic performance (preferably expressed as percentage/GPA).
- A writing sample of at least 1000 words (preferably published work).
Applications should be submitted to Rashmi Patel at rpatel@hbs.edu
Incomplete applications, or those missing any of the required materials, will not be considered.
Click on Apply to know more.