Research Assistant, Center Justice and Reconciliation

Overview

Research Assistant, Center for Justice and Reconciliation at Point Loma Nazarene University.

Location:

Point Loma Campus, San Diego, CA.

PLNU is a Christian liberal arts university in the evangelical, Wesleyan tradition. We encourage applications from culturally diverse candidates. This role participates in applied research on human trafficking and supports community-based events and collaboration with local partners.

The Research Assistant will contribute to the Center for Justice & Reconciliation's applied research on human trafficking in San Diego County. Responsibilities include data management, report and manuscript development, literature reviews, and supporting biannual community events (Fall and Spring) as well as other community engagements such as the SD HT CSEC Advisory Council meeting. The role offers opportunities to develop skills in applied research, academic writing, and community collaboration while contributing to local anti-trafficking efforts.

Scholarly Writing & Dissemination (40%) (6 hrs/week)

• Contribute to drafting, editing, and preparing research reports, literature reviews, peer-reviewed manuscripts, conference abstracts, and other scholarly publications.
• Assist in developing research briefs, manuscripts, conference presentations, and other scholarly products for publication and dissemination.

Research Projects (30%) (4.5 hrs/week)

• Collaborate with the CJR Research Team on applied research projects focused on anti-human trafficking.
• Conduct quantitative and/or qualitative data collection, cleaning, management, and/or analysis using appropriate software and methodologies.
• Assist with research interviews, including participant recruitment, scheduling, conducting, transcription, and qualitative coding as appropriate.

Research Collaboration & Community Engagement (20%) (3 hrs/week)

• Represent CJR at meetings, community events, and collaborative initiatives with academic, nonprofit, and governmental partners.
• Prepare meeting and event materials (flyers, listserv messages, website updates, presentations, and webinar setup) in collaboration with other research assistants.
• Assist in planning meetings, events, and collaborations with researchers and community leaders.
• Support event logistics on the day of events.
• Represent CJR by attending and staffing community outreach, educational, and networking events, as opportunities arise.

General Research-Related Support (10%) (1.5 hrs/week)

• Support grant development activities, including literature searches, drafting proposal sections, and compiling supporting materials.
• Support the evaluation of CJR programs, as needed.

• Academic background in Public Health, Criminal Justice, Sociology, Psychology, Political Science, Communications, or a related field; graduate degree preferred.
• One to two years of research experience, including report drafting, data management and analysis, literature reviews, and manuscript co-authorship.
• Familiarity with human trafficking in the United States and/or globally.
• Knowledge of analysis and survey software (e.g., SPSS, NVivo, Qualtrics).
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and writing skills, demonstrated through a writing sample.
• Excellent professional communication skills and the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment.
• Detail-oriented with strong time management and organizational skills, and a commitment to following research protocols.
• Growth mindset and openness to feedback.
• CITI certification required within the first week of employment.
• Evidence of Christian commitment and active church involvement. Staff agree to live in agreement with PLNU's Community Life Covenant.
• The job offer is contingent on the successful completion of a background check. PLNU will consider qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local Fair Chance laws.

• The work is primarily sedentary and may require sitting for extended periods of time.
• Use of computer equipment: keyboard, mouse, and monitor.
• Ability to read documents, email and other correspondence, and reports on paper and computer monitor.
• Ability to communicate effectively with others in person and by phone.
• Ability to stand, stoop, push, pull, and lift up to 10 lbs.

Point Loma Nazarene University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex,…