Research Assistant, China

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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 Assistant to support Graham Allison, the Douglas Dillon Professor of Government at Harvard Kennedy School and Director of the Belfer Center’s Avoiding Great Power War Project, in conducting in-depth research on China-related topics, focused on Chinese domestic politics, Chinese foreign policy, and US-China relations. 

About the Belfer Center

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 Assistant will work closely with other members of a small research team and play a key role in:
•    Conducting research on China-related topics and producing in-depth analytic memos, eventually building deep expertise in their areas of responsibility.
•    Contributing to internal and external publications such as research reports, op-eds, academic articles, and book chapters. 
•    Planning and conducting research for high-level events, including private working groups and large public events; includes managing the planning and research related to the Belfer Center’s China Working Group. 
•    Other related job duties, as required.

Basic Qualifications:

• Master’s Degree or Bachelor's degree with two years of related work experience (internships will count toward experience)
• Mandarin proficiency

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Master’s degree in a relevant field is preferred, though we will consider candidates who have a bachelor’s degree with extraordinary academic or professional credentials. 
• 2+ years of China-related work or research experience preferred.
• Advanced Mandarin (reading, writing, speaking) highly preferred.
• Demonstrated knowledge of, and interest in, current international security issues, research methods, and basic quantitative techniques. Relevant coursework will count toward experience. 
• Experience living/studying/working in Mainland China highly preferred.
• Significant knowledge of, and interest in, current international security issues.
• Exceptional writing skills.
• Basic quantitative proficiency.
• Demonstrated ability to work with minimal supervision under tight deadlines.

Important Application Instructions:

In order to be considered complete, applications must include:
(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

Materials must be submitted by April 15, 2026, at 11:59pm Eastern. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and early submissions are encouraged. 
Evaluation of qualified candidates may include a written assessment exercise which may be followed by competency-based interviews with the research team and with Professor Allison.

• 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.  The team works 3 days/week on campus (M,Tu, Wed) with the option for 2 days/week remote (Thu, Fri)

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 053. 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.