Case Researcher

Division of Research and Faculty Development (DRFD)

The mission of Harvard Business School (HBS) is to educate leaders who make a difference in the world. Within HBS, by providing unparalleled faculty support, the DRFD helps to build and develop the faculty; and facilitates the creation of enduring knowledge that shapes both business scholarship and the practice of business. As the School’s largest administrative department, the DRFD houses approximately 350 full-time and part-time staff members. As a premier service organization, and in collaboration with colleagues across the School, DRFD staff deliver high-touch, customized support to the faculty, demonstrating solid judgment and high standards of responsiveness and professionalism.

Case Research and Writing Group (CRG)

Within the DRFD, the CRG’s mission is to support faculty by providing high quality, high value, efficient and innovative case research, development, and writing. Case Researchers support HBS faculty members in their case writing and course development efforts and assist administrative and academic departments with research, case writing, and training services. We are a collaborative feedback-driven team.

Position Summary

Would you enjoy working alongside HBS faculty members as they study and teach about the defining leadership and organizational challenges of our time? Are you a strong writer who loves learning, is curious, and is excited about engaging with intellectual puzzles? If so, consider joining the CRG and becoming a Case Researcher. 

Case Researchers help HBS faculty members develop and write course materials, in particular case studies, that train future leaders in the HBS MBA and Executive Education programs. HBS cases are sold worldwide and impact tens of thousands of students.

To do so, we interview business leaders and others (politicians, professional athletes, entertainers, philanthropists, and more) about their most pressing challenges and organizational dilemmas. Travel may be involved. In addition to interviews, we gather library research, and then we write. Case Researchers occasionally work on other course development projects (such as video supplements or teaching guides) and participate in CRG recruiting, training, and mentoring activities.

We are actively hiring for two Case Researcher openings under this posting.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

Reporting to either the CRG’s Director or Assistant Director, the Case Researcher:

• Writes case studies based on field and/or library research, supports the development of course materials, including teaching notes, technical notes, and multimedia materials; manages timelines, drafts and deliverables; and creates basic case components (e.g., tables, charts, graphs), in accordance with faculty guidance.

• Uses research and writing technologies and is willing to experiment with and learn from new tools, including AI, to enhance productivity, efficiency, and accuracy while maintaining high quality standards.

• Once experienced, Case Researchers are expected to participate in CRG-level activities such as recruiting, training, mentoring and on-boarding. 

• Builds trust and collaboration by being present on-site and engaging directly with colleagues and various constituents.

• Responsible for other duties as assigned.