Interdisciplinary Research Program Coordinator
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The Harvard Graduate School of Design (GSD) educates design, research, and scholarship leaders to make a resilient, just, and beautiful world. The GSD offers degree programs across a range of design disciplines and advanced research programs that cut across disciplines, along with a robust public program of lectures and exhibitions. This position is a benefits-eligible, 1 / 2 time (17.5 hours / week) term appointment for up to three years depending on funding.
Responsibilities
- Coordinate cross-team activities to support the three research thrusts : advanced thermal materials, intelligent building-scale systems, and cooperative urban-scale energy management.
- Act as a central communications hub to facilitate information sharing across project teams, leadership, and partners.
- Draft internal and external reports documenting milestones, synthesizing research outcomes, and communicating progress to stakeholders.
- Engage with industry partners to ensure practical insights inform research and deployment strategies.
- Coordinate preparation and submission of proposals for extramural funding to sustain and expand the initiative.
- Facilitate integration across disciplines to advance interdisciplinary collaboration and impact.
- Contribute to scaling HouseZero-inspired innovations into energy-efficient, interconnected communities delivering real-world climate solutions.
Supervisory and Other Requirements
Supervisory responsibilities : There are no supervisory responsibilities associated with this position.Physical requirements : Ability to perform typical office tasks; able to sit for extended periods; occasional lifting up to 20 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be provided.Work environment : In-person role based in Cambridge, MA. Employment authorization to work in the US is required; visa sponsorship is not provided.Qualifications
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
Experience leading or coordinating complex, multi-stakeholder research initiatives, especially in sustainability, climate resilience, or urban systems.Ability to synthesize interdisciplinary research and produce accessible reports.Strong leadership, facilitation, and organizational skills; experience managing collaborative teams and meetings.Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including grant writing and report preparation.Familiarity with extramural funding processes and experience coordinating successful proposals.Demonstrated ability to work across disciplinary boundaries with external industry partners.ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Doctoral degree in engineering, architecture, urban planning, environmental science, energy systems, or a closely related interdisciplinary field (strongly preferred).Subject matter knowledge in one or more core focus areas : advanced thermal materials, intelligent building-scale systems, or urban-scale energy management.Experience in interdisciplinary or systems-level research at the nexus of building design, sustainable technologies, and urban development.Familiarity with real-world implementation of research-based innovations in the built environment.Benefits
Generous paid time off including parental leaveMedical, dental, and vision health insurance starting on day oneRetirement plans with university contributionsWellbeing and mental health resourcesSupport for families and caregiversProfessional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursementCommuter benefits, discounts and campus perksEEO / Non-Discrimination
Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives.
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