Harvard University's Shorenstein Center on Media, Politics and Public Policy is hiring a Software Engineer to join Professor Goel’s Computational Policy Lab. This role focuses on designing and developing complex software systems for large-scale research in education technology and generative AI, translating theoretical models into high-performance, production-ready tools for AI-driven public policy projects.
What You'll Do
- Independently perform complex applications and web development for large to very large research projects.
- Design and develop software systems with a focus on education technology and generative AI-based tools.
- Leverage breakthroughs in machine learning and natural language processing to build, test, and deploy advanced algorithmic tools for empirical research.
- Lead and collaborate on technically challenging projects involving AI, machine learning, natural language processing, and large-scale experimentation.
- Contribute to the design and execution of randomized controlled trials and other empirical methods to evaluate AI-driven interventions.
- Collaborate closely with researchers to translate theoretical models and experimental designs into production-ready systems.
- Co-author or contribute to academic publications and technical reports for peer-reviewed journals, conference proceedings, and lay audiences.
- Stay abreast of emerging technologies and research developments related to AI, computational social science, and causal inference.
- Abide by and follow Harvard University IT technical standards, policies and Code of Conduct.
- Design, implement, and scale AI-powered education technologies like virtual lectures, personalized student diagnostics, and teacher co-pilot tools for testing in real classrooms.
- Build robust, production-quality AI systems for public service delivery and decision-making in high-stakes government environments.
What We're Looking For
- Minimum of two years’ post-secondary education or relevant work experience.
- Confirmation of legal authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship for at least two years.
Nice to Have
- Bachelor's degree and/or relevant work experience in computer science, data science, or a closely related field.
- Strong emphasis on advanced software engineering, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and empirical research methodologies.
- Experience working with generative AI pipelines.
- Experience deploying software in a cloud environment.
- Demonstrated team performance skills, service mindset approach, and the ability to act as a trusted advisor.
- Experience with Python and TypeScript.
- Familiarity with Svelte or React.
Technical Stack
- Languages: Python, TypeScript
- Frameworks/Libraries: Svelte, React
- Domains: Generative AI, Machine Learning, Natural Language Processing
- Infrastructure: Cloud Environment
Team & Environment
This role is housed within the Shorenstein Center on Media, Politics and Public Policy at Harvard Kennedy School, part of Professor Goel’s Computational Policy Lab.
Benefits & Compensation
- 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.
- Compensation aligns with Harvard's Salary Grade 057.
Work Mode
This is a hybrid role. You must work in a Harvard registered state when not at a Harvard location.
Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination, 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.
