Program Assistant, Digital Data Design Institute

Launched in 2022, the Digital Data Design Institute at Harvard (D^3) is a global research center that provides research-driven insights, accessible to anyone in the world, on using AI and digital technologies to advance business and society.

Founded on the premise that AI technology is only half the answer and that businesses must also revamp their processes to harness AI’s potential, the Institute is made up of an unbiased, multidisciplinary team of researchers and scientists, business leaders, and entrepreneurs. D^3 consists of numerous Harvard and Harvard Business School (HBS) faculty and produces cutting-edge research into the changes in the business landscape as a result of AI and digital transformation.

The Program Assistant will provide project and administrative support to a new and ambitious research program between the Digital Data Design Institute at Harvard (D^3) and an established industry partner to advance research on digital transformation and artificial intelligence in business. The Program Assistant will report the Program Manager under the D^3 Director of Research Services.

Responsibilities Include

• Build trust and collaboration by being present on-site and engaging directly with colleagues and various constituents.
• Administrative support and coordination to deliver on program goals in partnership with internal and external partners.
• Representing the program by providing clear, professional communications with program partners, including faculty, D^3 staff, and industry collaborators.
• Manages and coordinates extremely active, complex calendars; scheduling appointments, meetings, and events with internal and external partners to facilitate research collaboration.
• Coordinate and support conferences, workshops, and other events showcasing research outcomes to academic and industry audiences, which may include speaker scheduling, room reservations, and organizing support for catering or A/V.
• Manage program files to support appropriate access for both internal and external teams.
• Coordinates complex travel arrangements, itineraries, and travel visas for faculty and program staff.
• Prepares, tracks, and processes purchases, reimbursements, and other financial support in a timely and accurate manner.
• Build trust and collaboration by being present on-site and engaging directly with colleagues and various constituents.
• Responsible for other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• 3+ years of experience working in an administrative, clerical, executive support, coordination, or related professional capacity is required.
• Education beyond high school may count toward experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• Strong verbal and written communication skills and ability to effectively present information in a range of ways and to varied audiences, including HBS faculty and external stakeholders.
• Proven ability to handle multiple work streams simultaneously, to adapt to changes in priorities, and to remove obstacles when necessary; ability to work calmly under pressure while taking initiative; and follow projects through to completion.
• Demonstrated experience coordinating schedules and communicating professionally with faculty or executive audiences.

Additional Information

Additional Information: This is an immediate hire full-time term position through April 14, 2026, with strong potential for reappointment based on funding and performance.

Standard Hours/Schedule: 40 hours per week, overtime eligible

Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position

Pre-Employment Screening: Identity

Other Information: 

This is a hybrid position which we consider to be a combination of remote and onsite work at our Boston, MA based campus. HBS expects all staff to be onsite a minimum of 3 days per week, and departments provide onsite coverage Monday – Friday. Specific hours and days onsite will be determined by business needs and are subject to change with appropriate advanced notice.

We may conduct candidate interviews virtually (phone and/or via Zoom) and/or in-person for this role.

A cover letter and writing sample are required to be considered for this opportunity.

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.