Research Associate, Center on Sentencing and Corrections

Start date:
May/June 2008

Description:
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 safety and
justice. Vera.s Center on Sentencing and Corrections helps state legislators, judges,
corrections commissioners, attorneys general, and other officials deal with the
substantive needs and political realities that often make sentencing and corrections
reform difficult to achieve. Vera.s research focuses on conducting both evaluations and
exploratory research on issues of criminal and social justice. By providing an integrated
mix of research, technical assistance, and planning services, the center is uniquely
positioned to enhance decision making, improve processes, and support system reforms that
impact adult sentencing and corrections policy.

The Center on Sentencing and Corrections is currently seeking a research associate to
work on various projects, including a study of parole violators in New York State that
begins immediately. This position would be ideal for someone pursing a social science PhD.

Responsibilities:
The Center on Sentencing and Corrections seeks a research associate who
will work with the center.s senior research associate on a New York State Division of
Parole research project. This work includes quantitative analysis of administrative
parole data as well as qualitative interviews with parolees and parole officers. More
generally, the responsibilities of the research associate will include work in all
research planning and implementation; managing and analyzing computerized databases using
SPSS; constructing and preparing data collection instruments, interview materials, and
code books; recruiting and interviewing study subjects; conducting rigorous statistical
analysis; and writing detailed reports. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced
environment and have a high degree of analytic ability. The research associate will
report to the center.s senior research associate. This position will involve travel
within and beyond New York State.

Qualifications:

    * Three or more years research experience at the graduate or post-graduate level
    * Experience in project planning and strategic implementation
    * A background in criminology and criminal justice
    * Experience in multivariate data analysis using statistical software such as SPSS
    * Experience in qualitative interviewing and data analysis
    * A masters's degree in a related social science field, or equivalent experience
    * Willingness to travel
    * Some experience developing and managing database applications a plus
    * Excellent presentation and writing skills

Salary:
50's, depending on experience.

To apply for this position send a cover letter and rumto:

    Research Associate
    Center on Sentencing and Corrections
    Vera Institute of Justice
    233 Broadway, 12th Floor
    New York, NY 10279
    e-mail: job.CSC.resrepost@vera.org
    fax: (212) 941-9407
No telephone calls, please. Only applicants selected for interviews will be contacted.
The Vera Institute values diversity and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.