Research Associate

START DATE: IMMEDIATE

The Vera Institute of Justice, a private nonprofit organization, combines expertise in research, demonstration projects, and technical assistance to help leaders in government and civil society improve the systems people rely on for justice and safety. Vera’s Prosecution and Racial Justice Program assists district attorneys in developing management strategies for monitoring the use of prosecutorial discretion in their offices. By providing an integrated mix of research, technical assistance, and planning services, the Program is uniquely positioned to enhance decision making, improve processes, and support system reforms that affect adult prosecution.

The Program seeks an enthusiastic and motivated individual to work as a Research Associate.

Responsibilities
The ideal candidate should be able to:
• Design and implement perception surveys (including sampling and survey questionnaires)
• Conduct in-depth semi-structured interviews and focus groups of criminal justice practitioners, including prosecutors
• Analyze large survey and administrative datasets using statistical software, such as SPSS
• Draft reports with well-reasoned narratives and visual aids (e.g., graphs)
• Present findings to, and engage in research and policy discussions with a broad range of audiences; including researchers, practitioners and the general public
• Collaborate on the development of new research and proposals
• Travel nationwide; and
• Work with local prosecutors’ offices on gathering and systematizing criminal justice data.

Qualifications
Applicants must possess a graduate degree in sociology, criminal justice, public policy, or a closely related discipline and be well familiar with the social science research methods. Position requirements include:
• Two years research experience
• Experience in developing and managing databases
• Experience in designing and conducting statistical analysis
• Experience in working in applied research settings, particularly in criminal justice
• Interest and experience in designing, conducting and analyzing focus groups, interviews and surveys
• Familiarity with or interest in performance measurement and public policy analysis
• Excellent presentation and writing skills; and
• Experience working with Lexis-Nexis or Westlaw and reviewing legal documents.

Salary
50s, depending on experience. Excellent benefits.
 
How to Apply
Submit cover letter and résumé.
Online submission is preferred.

However, if necessary, materials may be mailed or faxed to:
ATTN: Human Resources /PRJ Research Associate recruitment
Vera Institute of Justice
233 Broadway, 12th Flr.
New York, NY 10279
Fax: (212) 941-9407

Please use only one method of submission (online, mail or fax).
No phone calls, please. Only applicants selected for interviews will be contacted.

The Vera Institute of Justice values diversity and is an equal opportunity employer.

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