APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

The Research Support position will assist with multiple research initiatives examining correctional interventions, reentry outcomes, and policies affecting individuals involved in the criminal-legal system. The position will work closely with CJRC faculty, research staff, and external partners to support the development, implementation, analysis, and dissemination of research findings., Responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Assist with data management activities, including data cleaning, organization, documentation, and quality assurance.
• Support quantitative and qualitative research activities, including statistical analysis and interpretation of research findings.
• Assist with data procurement, preparation, and coordination with external research partners.
• Support Institutional Review Board (IRB) submissions and research compliance activities.
• Conduct literature reviews and contribute to research planning and project development.
• Assist with identifying relevant funding opportunities and contribute to grant proposal development.
• Support coordination of research activities, project timelines, and communication among research collaborators.
• Contribute to the preparation of research products, including technical reports, policy briefs, presentations, and manuscripts for academic publication.
• Assist with dissemination activities to translate research findings for academic, practitioner, and policy audiences.
• Perform other research-related duties as assigned.

Research Areas

Current research activities supported by this position include projects examining:

• The impact of correctional vocational programming on post-release employment outcomes and recidivism.
• Recidivism patterns among older adults released from Pennsylvania correctional facilities.
• Correctional policies and programs designed to support successful reentry and improve justice system outcomes.
• Additional emerging research initiatives within the CJRC’s portfolio.

• Experience working with criminal justice, corrections, or public policy research.
• Experience with statistical software and/or data analysis tools.
• Experience preparing research reports, manuscripts, or grant-related materials.
• Familiarity with IRB processes
• Experience assisting with research projects, including data management, analysis, literature reviews, or research coordination.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with faculty, researchers, and external partners.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Available to work at least one 4-hour shift during the week Monday through Friday.

Position Details

This is a part-time research support position within the Criminal Justice Research Center. The position provides an opportunity to contribute to applied research projects that inform criminal justice policy and practice in Pennsylvania and beyond.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Shift and schedule

Monday to Friday

The Criminal Justice Research Center (CJRC) seeks a Part-Time Research Support staff member to contribute to the Center’s mission of bridging criminal-legal research and practice through rigorous, policy-relevant translational research. This position will support ongoing research projects focused on correctional policies, programs, and outcomes in Pennsylvania as part of the CJRC’s longstanding research partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (PADOC)., Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.

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