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Library Research Assistant Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Maintain laboratory records, reagent inventories, sample tracking, and data transfers. * Assist in ... Library preparation * Sequencing workflows * DV200 assessment Histology * Multiplex ...

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Research Technician

Medford, MA · On-site

$20.90 - $28.90/hr

Gnecco and other lab members; maintain the lab's 3D hydrogel biomaterial library, which includes ... Specific duties include: • Assist in the tissue processing pipeline from clinical collaborators ...

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Library Research Assistant information

See Boston, MA salary details

$9

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$29

How much do library research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for library research assistant in Boston, MA is $20.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $22.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a library research assistant do?

A Library Research Assistant supports librarians and library users by helping with research tasks, locating resources, and organizing materials. They often assist patrons in finding books, articles, or data, and may help with cataloging or maintaining digital collections. Research assistants may also support academic projects, gather information for faculty or students, and help manage interlibrary loans. Their work ensures library services run smoothly and users have access to the information they need.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a library research assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Library Research Assistant, you need strong research, information retrieval, and organizational skills, often supported by coursework or experience in library science or a related field. Familiarity with library databases, cataloging systems, and digital research tools like JSTOR or ProQuest is typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and customer service skills help you collaborate with library staff and assist patrons efficiently. These abilities ensure accurate information delivery and foster a supportive learning environment for library users.

What are some common challenges faced by library research assistants when supporting patrons with research inquiries?

Library Research Assistants often encounter challenges such as locating credible and up-to-date resources across diverse subjects, especially when patrons have complex or interdisciplinary research needs. Balancing multiple requests during peak periods can also be demanding, requiring strong organizational and time management skills. Additionally, they may need to guide users who are unfamiliar with library databases or digital tools, which calls for patience and clear communication. Successful Library Research Assistants are adaptable and resourceful, often collaborating closely with librarians and academic staff to ensure patrons get the most accurate and relevant information.

What is the difference between Library Research Assistant vs Library Technician?

AspectLibrary Research AssistantLibrary Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or relevant courseworkAssociate's degree or certification in library technology
Work EnvironmentAcademic, public, or research librariesPublic, academic, or special libraries
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with research, data collection, and resource organizationManaging cataloging, circulation, and technical services
Common UsageResearch support and information gatheringTechnical and operational library tasks

The main difference between a Library Research Assistant and a Library Technician lies in their focus and responsibilities. Library Research Assistants primarily support research activities and assist users with information gathering, while Library Technicians handle technical tasks like cataloging and managing library systems. Both roles are essential in library settings and often require similar educational backgrounds, but their day-to-day duties differ based on their focus areas.

What are popular job titles related to Library Research Assistant jobs in Boston, MA?

For Library Research Assistant jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Library Research Assistant jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Research Assistant jobs in Boston, MA are:

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Library Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Library Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Library Research Assistant job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,216 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Research Assistant II (Non-Lab), Fionn Folklore Database Project

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA • On-site, Remote

$53/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Harvard University rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

82nd of 628 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Company Description
By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.
Why join the Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences?
The Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) is the historic heart of Harvard University. It is the home of Harvard's undergraduate program (Harvard College, founded in 1636) as well as all of Harvard's Ph.D. programs (the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division of Continuing Education. The 40 academic departments and 30+ centers of the FAS support a community unparalleled in its academic excellence across the broadest range of liberal arts and sciences disciplines. Together, the FAS seeks to foster an environment of ambition, curiosity and shared commitment to knowledge and truth that elicits excellence from all members of our community and prepares the next generation of leaders through a transformative educational experience.
Job Description
Job Summary:
The Fionn Folklore Database (fionnfolklore.org)provides scholars and the public unprecedented global access to one of the most important corpuses of intangible cultural heritage in the Gaelic languages: orally-recorded stories and songs pertaining to the hero Fionn mac Cumhaill.
We are seeking a Research Assistant (RA) to aid in the maintenance and expansion of the database.
Job-Specific Responsibilities:
The RA's duties will include some or all of the following:
  • Translating descriptions, labels and editorial content from English to Gàidhlig or Irish
  • Creating content for the website (e.g. tale and character descriptions)
  • Entering data into the website
  • Online library and archival research to enhance or increase records of collection events in the database
  • Online biographical research to enhance records of people in the database
  • Project publicity tasks such as designing brochures, giving presentations and publicizing the project on social media

This is a remote/work from home position.
The posting will remain open until filled.
Qualifications
Basic Qualifications:
College background or equivalent in Celtic Studies, Scottish Gaelic or Irish Language, or a related field.
Qualifications or relevant experience in Scottish Gaelic or Irish language composition and translation.
Additional Qualifications and Skills:
The following qualifications are not required, but may be beneficial:
  • Excellent literacy and written skills in Scottish Gaelic or Irish
  • Very good oral and written skills in English
  • Strong organizational, decision making, problem solving, time management and prioritization skills
  • An ability to work with all levels of academic and professional services colleagues
  • Highly motivated and able to work with minimal supervision
  • Able to resolve day-to-day issues and plan workload independently
  • A high level of flexibility, adaptability and resilience
  • Coursework and/or past research on Fionn Cycle folklore or literature
  • Experience working with Irish/Scottish Gaelic place names or genealogy (e.g. census data)
  • Experience creating social media content
  • Experience developing and giving presentations
  • Website data entry experience
  • Excellent IT skills and ability to learn new systems quickly

Additional Information
  • 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:

In your cover letter, please include names and email addresses for two referees. Letters of reference are not required at this time.
This is a full time, 7-month term position with possibility of renewal based on available funds.
Work Format Details
This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that the duties and responsibilities can effectively be performed fully remotely at a non-Harvard location. Employees in fully remote positions must work all scheduled hours in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University's Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. At the discretion of the department, fully remote employees may occasionally be required on site at a Harvard location. 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.

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