Research Assistant, Advancing Justice

at  American Institutes for Research

Overview:
AIR is seeking a Research Assistant focused on advancing justice and community safety to join our Youth, Family & Community Development (YFCD) Program Area within AIR’s Human Services Division. AIR’s work in justice systems is committed to transformative change that dismantles structural disparities. Our work spans the justice continuum—from prevention to intervention and reentry—and embeds community-based, restorative, developmentally appropriate, and culturally responsive approaches. We aim to address root causes of harm and trauma and promote safety, dignity, and thriving.

In support of this work, the selected candidate will apply a strengths-based, equity-focused perspective to work aimed at building evidence on equitable pathways to thriving for youth, adults, families, and communities. This includes an understanding of the potential of all people to thrive under the right conditions and with the right supports, as well as an orientation toward supportive and restorative, rather than punitive, approaches. Related topics may include, but are not limited to:

• Community violence prevention and intervention
• Juvenile and criminal justice diversion
• Community- and school-based restorative justice
• Alternatives to exclusionary discipline and disrupting the school to prison pipeline
• Youth engagement and re-engagement with school and work
• Mentoring (including credible messenger mentoring)
• Police accountability and reform
• Reimagining public safety systems
• Prison-based education and reentry supports

This position may work remotely within the United States (U.S.) or from one of our U.S. office locations.This does not include U.S. territories.

EDUCATION, KNOWLEDGE, AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in such fields as economics, psychology, sociology, criminology, statistics, computer science, public policy, public health or other social science related fields.
• Passionate about topics related to youth, family, and community development (see program area description above).
• Experience (i.e., Intern or volunteer) in organizations that support youth, family, or community development.

Skills:

• Attention to detail and commitment to accuracy when writing.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to ensure effective communication with individuals at all levels and from diverse backgrounds.
• Comfortable working independently under supervision while committed to details and quality.
• Strong teamwork skills and positive contributor to team efficiency.
• Strong time management, organizational skills, and the ability to multitask.
• Commitment to working in a culturally competent work environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion.

• Conducting literature reviews to support projects and proposals.
• Assisting in the identification, review, and development of scholarly information to inform and/or describe project findings and deliverables.
• Conducting data collection (e.g., via interviews, focus groups, surveys).
• Analyzing qualitative and/or quantitative data.
• Summarizing findings for project reports.
• Providing managerial support on projects (e.g., preparing materials, notetaking during meetings, budgeting and invoicing)