Research Assistant, Center for Justice and Reconciliation

PLNU is a Christian liberal arts university in the evangelical, Wesleyan tradition, offering quality undergraduate, graduate and professional programs. We provide higher education in a vibrant Christian environment where minds are engaged and challenged, character is modeled and formed, and service is an expression of faith. PLNU is an institution that is committed to reflecting the rich diversity of God’s kingdom. We therefore encourage applications from culturally diverse candidates.

Job Summary:

The Research Assistant will play an active role in advancing the Center for Justice & Reconciliation’s applied research on human trafficking in San Diego County. Key activities include data management, report and manuscript development, conducting literature review, as well as supporting the community-based Human Trafficking awareness biannual events (Fall and Spring) as well as participating in other community events such as the SD HT CSEC Advisory Council meeting. This role offers the chance to contribute directly to projects shaping local anti-trafficking efforts through applied research and its dissemination.. It’s an opportunity to build skills in applied research, academic writing, and community collaboration while making research matter in the collective anti-trafficking efforts.

Salary:
Pay range: $20.91 - $22.58 per hour


Schedule: 15 hours per week, approximate one year assignment with eligibility to renew

Job Status:

Part time

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Job Description:

The Center for Justice & Reconciliation (CJR) at Point Loma Nazarene University shapes students to pursue healing and reconciliation with communities affected by harm and exploitation. Operating through a restorative justice framework, CJR conducts applied research, develops student-driven initiatives, provides scholarships for survivors of trafficking, and partners with organizations addressing injustice locally and nationally.

We are seeking a dedicated Research Assistant to join our team for advancing applied research on human trafficking prevention, survivor support and protection. This position offers emerging researchers the opportunity to deepen expertise in applied research methods, collaborate with scholars and practitioners, contribute to policy-relevant publications, and build skills in data analysis, research and writing. Research Assistants will gain hands-on experience on projects that directly strengthen anti-trafficking efforts while learning how scholarship can drive meaningful social change—an ideal role for researchers eager to make their work matter in the world.

Key Projects and Responsibilities

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

• Contribute to the drafting, editing, and preparation of 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 research 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.

Minimum Qualifications

• 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 on analysis and survey software–e.g. SPSS, NVivo, and 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. In addition, 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.

Physical Requirements:

• • The work is primarily sedentary and may require sitting for extended periods of time.
  • Use of computer equipment: computer 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. 

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At PLNU, we believe in pursuing calling together. Deep and meaningful relationships between students, faculty, and staff is vital in nurturing our shared community and expressing God’s love. We are looking for enthusiastic candidates to join us in empowering our students to reach their greatest personal, spiritual and professional potential. 

Point Loma Nazarene University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices or procedures.