Wow, that sounds awesome (to the extent I understand it)--congrats! Been thinking about leaving NYC myself recently--I do love it here but it may be about time. No international relocation anticipated though. I hope the transition's been going well.
Wow! The place you are staying is amazing! And it sonds like you are gonna be doing some interesting research! I've never been to Cambridge so unfortunaely I can't shed any light on the area but I hear its lush!