Jobs / United States / Harvard University

Harvard University

Research Assistant I Lab

Cambridge, 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

Job Summary: The Extavour Lab is a collection of developmental biologists, molecular biologists, geneticists, cell biologists, zoologists, and evolutionary biologists. Our shared interest is in the evolution of the genetic mechanisms employed during early animal embryogenesis to specify cell fate, development and differentiation. We focus primarily on the evolution and development of reproductive systems, including both the germ line and the somatic components of the gonad. Job-Specific Responsibilities: The Extavour Lab seeks to hire a Research Assistant I. This position performs a variety research tasks for the Extavour laboratory research projects, within specific guidelines and under the direction of the Principle Investigator (PI) and other research staff. Typical Duties: • Performs laboratory experiments utilizing specific and proscribed techniques and equipment. • Prepares matter for analysis and diagnosis, performing duties such as dissecting and staining tissue, mounting slides, and preparing complex chemical solutions and media. • Collects project data and records results of experiments according to standard laboratory techniques. • Under direction, processes, organizes and summarizes data, reporting experiment results using scientific software. • As a member of a project team, may assist in the design of laboratory experiments, techniques, and protocols. • May perform routine logging and/or testing of samples. • May maintain cultures and other experimental matter, requiring knowledge of laboratory techniques. • May operate scientific equipment, requiring a high degree of skill and/or precision. • Performs related laboratory maintenance such as maintaining and cleaning equipment and ordering supplies.   Working Conditions: • Work is typically performed in a laboratory setting on campus in Cambridge, MA. • May be required to work with a variety of hazardous materials. • May be required to work with and handle animals.    Physical Requirements: • May be required to lift, move and transport related laboratory equipment.   Basic Qualifications  ( required ) : • College background in science or biology. • At least one year of experience in Drosophila laboratory work required.   Additional Qualifications and Skills  ( preferred ) : • Candidates should have a bachelor's degree in a discipline of science/biology. • Candidates must understand and follow good laboratory practices, including record keeping. • Successful candidates will be detail-oriented, responsible, dependable, organized, with a good sense of judgment. • Must have excellent communication skills both oral and written. • Ability to work independently and with a team is important.   • Appointment End Date:  This is a one year term position with the possibility of extension based on funding. • Standard Hours/Schedule: 40 hours per week • Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position • Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, and reference checks required   Other Information: ***All formal offers will be made by FAS Human Resources.   Work Format Details This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment. Salary Grade and Ranges This position is salary grade level 052. 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, yo

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