Policy Researcher

2 weeks ago


Santa Monica, California, United States RAND Full time

Position Overview

RAND is on the lookout for criminologists with varying levels of expertise. Our researchers engage in collaborative research initiatives, delivering objective and scientific evaluations published in peer-reviewed journals and technical reports aimed at informing policymakers on a wide range of issues. These multidisciplinary teams comprise policy analysts, economists, psychologists, statisticians, social scientists, and other professionals with relevant qualifications. Researchers employ rigorous empirical research methodologies to scrutinize policy matters and assess programs.

Opportunities for Collaboration

Team members have the chance to instruct at the Pardee RAND Graduate School and collaborate on projects across different research sectors, including Education and Labor, Health Care, Homeland Security, National Security, and Social and Economic Well-Being. Current research at RAND encompasses a broad spectrum of subjects, such as mental health services, healthcare policies, drug legislation, disaster recovery, and national security. Our research addresses issues impacting the general population as well as marginalized and hard-to-reach communities.

Qualifications

Ideal candidates will exhibit strong quantitative and/or qualitative research capabilities, excellent analytical and interpersonal skills, outstanding verbal and written communication abilities, a keen interest in developing a policy research portfolio, and the capacity to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team. A strong commitment to RAND's core principles of quality and objectivity is essential.

Areas of Specialization

  • Criminology
  • Law Enforcement
  • Judicial Systems and Corrections
  • Victim Studies
  • Juvenile Justice
  • Cybersecurity
  • Evidence-Based Mental Health Treatments
  • Mental Health Stigma and Interventions
  • Racial Equity
  • Substance Use Disorders and Treatment
  • Artificial Intelligence Policy and Applications

Educational Background

A PhD in criminology, criminal justice, or a related field is required (candidates at the dissertation stage who anticipate completing their PhD within 12 months may also apply); alternatively, a PhD in another discipline or a JD with substantial evidence of applying research methods to behavioral or social science issues; or a Master's degree in public policy, public health, or a technical field with over 5 years of experience demonstrating research leadership and proficiency in research methodologies.

Experience Requirements

Positions are available for candidates at all experience levels. A record of peer-reviewed publications and external funding consistent with the candidate's experience is expected. We particularly seek individuals with experience in conducting applied and policy-oriented research, alongside strong theoretical, methodological, and quantitative skills. Experience collaborating with funding organizations is highly desirable.

Work Arrangement

A hybrid work model, combining remote work and on-site presence, is available. Fully remote work arrangements may also be considered.

Application Materials

  • A CV/Resume, cover letter, and writing sample are required (PDF format is preferred). A single writing sample is acceptable if it is a published journal article from a refereed source; otherwise, two writing samples are necessary (e.g., a draft first-authored journal article or a job market paper).
  • References will be requested upon selection for an interview. For candidates with less than three years of post-PhD experience, three letters of recommendation will be required instead of references, which should be submitted directly. Candidates with more than three years of experience will need to provide contact information for three references if selected for an interview.

Compensation

Salary ranges from $100,000 to $262,500, with specific ranges for different researcher levels:

  • Associate Researcher: $100,000 - $154,200
  • Full Researcher: $115,400 - $190,000
  • Senior Researcher: $152,700 - $262,500

RAND considers various factors when determining offers, including the specific role and responsibilities, the candidate's work experience, education, skills, and internal equity. Successful candidates will be offered employment as an Associate, Full, or Senior researcher based on their education and experience. The salary range includes base pay plus RAND's sabbatical pay, which provides additional compensation during vacation periods. RAND also offers comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, life and disability insurance, a savings plan, paid time off, and more.

Application Review Process

Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis.



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