The core mission of the Center for Race, Inequality and Social Equity Studies (CRISES) is the scholarly analysis of contemporary ethno-racial inequality, especially as articulated with class-based and gendered social conditions, through rigorous methodologies, theory-driven insights, and empirically grounded research. The social scientific research conducted by CRISES will inform the vision and attainment of a world without invidious social distinctions that are rooted in historical, institutional, and systemic ethno-racial, gender, and economic inequality. Through its research, collaborations across FAS and Harvard, and convenings of scholars, activists and students, CRISES envisions collective healing and a genuinely democratic society.

We are accepting applications for a one-year postdoctoral position (start date between June 1 and September 1, 2026) to study contemporary ethno-racial inequality, diversity, and democracy in America. The Postdoc will spend approximately 50% of their time working with an established research team on core CRISES projects. The primary project at CRISES involves designing, implementing, and analyzing nationally representative surveys that assess attitudinal and behavioral support for achieving a genuine democracy for all ethno-racial identities and backgrounds in the U.S.

The remaining 50% of the Postdoc's time will be spent on their own research, which should align with the Center's overall mission.

Postdocs are generally expected to be in residence at Harvard for the duration of their appointments, since regular interactions with the CRISES team and affiliated faculty will be critical for engagement and mentorship.

The position may be renewable for a second year, depending upon funding availability and satisfactory performance.

Selection Criteria
The Postdoc will be selected based on their expertise with advanced survey methods and analysis in the social sciences as well as their potential to make important contributions to scholarship on topics related to ethno-racial transformation and inequality; racialized identity, attitudes, and ideologies; advancement of inclusionary civil rights; changing work and economic opportunities; and/or the intersectional dynamics of ethnicity, race, class, and gender. Ideal candidates will have received (or be in the final stage of obtaining) a PhD in sociology, social psychology, economics, demography, political science, public health, gender studies, ethnic studies, or a related area in the social sciences.

Experience with advanced quantitative survey development, data collection and management, and multivariate statistical analysis is required. Qualitative experience is desired but not required.

Salary and Benefits
The position pays an annual salary of $87,500. The postdoc will be eligible for Harvard's subsidized, comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and other benefits. (Most of the benefit plans require a contribution from participants for coverage.) The postdoc will also receive a research and travel allowance up to $5000 annually, and office space within the Center.

Applicants must have received a doctorate or terminal degree no earlier than 2019; applicants without a doctorate or terminal degree must demonstrate that they will receive such a degree no later than September 2026.

If you have not completed your graduate program, please still make sure to include your doctorate and anticipated degree date in the Educational Background section.

Meenakshi Verma-Agrawal, Director of Administration and Operations
Center for Race, Inequality, and Social Equity Studies
William James Hall
Harvard University
Cambridge MA 02138

Harvard is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, military service, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or other protected status. We are strongly committed to creating and supporting a diverse workforce. Minorities and women are especially encouraged to apply.

$87,500