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Harvard University

Research Assistant II – Neurodegenerative Disease Biomarkers

Boston, MA, US Posted today

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Sponsorship verdict

Sponsorship possible

One solid signal, not two. Worth applying, and worth asking about sponsorship early.

  • Employer is on a government sponsor recordThe US Department of Labor certified 123 H-1B/E-3 labor condition applications for this employer between Oct 2025 and Jun 2026 (latest Jun 2026) — the step every H-1B hire needs first.
  • The posting doesn’t mention sponsorshipSilence isn’t a refusal — ask the recruiter before investing much time.
  • No salary bar for this routeH-1B has no fixed salary bar: the employer must pay at least the prevailing wage for the role and area.
  • What Harvard University paid sponsored hires in similar roles37 certified filings for “Research Fellow” (Molecular and Cellular Biologists) in MA: $76k–$81k, median $76k.
  • Confirmed live todayWhen a source last listed this job as open.
Details and sources
Employer is on a government sponsor record
The US Department of Labor certified 123 H-1B/E-3 labor condition applications for this employer between Oct 2025 and Jun 2026 (latest Jun 2026) — the step every H-1B hire needs first. Source: LCA disclosure data (US Department of Labor (OFLC)).
No salary bar for this route
H-1B has no fixed salary bar: the employer must pay at least the prevailing wage for the role and area. Cap-subject employers enter a lottery weighted by wage level. Source: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/12/29/2025-23853/weighted-selection-process-for-registrants-and-petitioners-seeking-to-file-cap-subject-h-1b, rules effective 2026-02-27.
What Harvard University paid sponsored hires in similar roles
37 certified filings for “Research Fellow” (Molecular and Cellular Biologists) in MA: $76k–$81k, median $76k. Most were filed at wage level I (73%) — 1 lottery entry, ≈15% projected selection odds for cap-subject employers. Source: US Department of Labor LCA disclosure data (Oct 2025 – Jun 2026).

US H-1B: cap-subject employers enter a lottery weighted by wage level — Level I gets 1 entry, Level IV gets 4 (DHS projected selection odds ≈15% at Level I to ≈61% at Level IV). Universities and non-profit research employers are cap-exempt. The $100,000 fee for new petitions from abroad is currently blocked by a court order (appeal pending).

A verdict summarises public evidence. It is not legal advice and never a guarantee: the employer and the immigration authority decide. Sign in to factor in where you can already work.

About the role

About you: You are a collaborative, impact-focused problem solver who wants to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to creating and commercializing novel approaches to global challenges in healthcare and sustainability. You want the opportunity to explore your scientific interests and apply your knowledge to tackle ambitious projects in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial-minded environment with resources and support from top-notch scientific, operations, and administrative professionals. You enjoy working with highly motivated, diverse teams and leveraging your expertise to create innovations that can change the world. About the role: We are looking for a motivated, enthusiastic Research Assistant II to join our team. You will help develop new diagnostic tests for neurodegenerative disorders, such as ALS and Alzheimer’s disease, using cutting edge, ultra-sensitive technologies. This position is for someone who is excited about science and enjoys working at the bench. You will work within a team and receive significant experimental training in both new and established techniques for profiling protein and nucleic acid biomarkers from human biofluids. What you'll do: • With supervision from senior staff, help design and execute experiments towards the development of new diagnostic technologies as well as protein and nucleic acid biomarkers assays for neurodegenerative diseases. • With oversight from senior staff, order supplies and perform support and lab maintenance activities. • With guidance from senior staff, present data and conclusions at meetings within the Wyss Institute.  What you'll need: • College background in biological science or related field and one or more years of lab experience in molecular biology or biochemistry. Higher education may count towards years of experience. Additional Qualifications and Skills: • Bachelor’s degree in a biological science or related field is strongly preferred. • Two or more years of research experience is preferred. • Experience with protein biochemistry (e.g., ELISA, Western blot, immunoisolation) and nucleic acid techniques (e.g. FISH, real-time PCR) is advantageous but not required. • Experience with imaging techniques (e.g. fluorescence microscopy), engineering, robotics, liquid-handling automation, and microfluidics is advantageous but not required. • Appointment End Date:  This is a one year term position 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, Other Information: Why you’ll like working with us: At the Wyss Institute, you’re a member of a supportive, dynamic community that is united by its shared goal of changing the world through groundbreaking technology development and commercialization. We encourage your professional growth and development through mentorship and tuition reimbursement to support continued learning, and more. We also support your physical, financial, and mental well-being through generous time off benefits, gym reimbursements, and other programs offered through Harvard. Our facility is located in a new, state-of-the-art life sciences building in the lively Fenway neighborhood, where you have access to multiple amenities including a roof top terrace with stunning views of Boston and proximity to numerous restaurants and cultural attractions.  We value an inclusive and diverse workforce, and believe that our differences enrich the work environment for all. Not ready to apply? Join our talent community via this link here. #LI-EC1 Work Format Details This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard

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