The National Center for State Courts is an independent, nonprofit court improvement organization located in Williamsburg, Virginia. NCSC's services – research, information services, education, consulting – are focused on helping courts implement improvements that promote efficiency and effectiveness, while ensuring access to justice, timeliness, and procedural satisfaction.

The Research Division of the NCSC is seeking to fill an advanced-level research associate position. The Senior Court Research Associate will fit into this overall mission by working with a team of multidisciplinary researchers who interact directly with court stakeholders. The ideal  candidate will be a highly motivated professional who seeks opportunities to work on multiple projects in a collaborative environment.

The position is responsible for planning, organizing and conducting research focused on various aspects of state court administration and disseminating research results. The work includes identifying and developing research initiatives, obtaining research grant funding, conducting research, and disseminating results through various mediums (e.g., written products, presentations, online curriculum, technical on-site assistance).
 

The Senior Court Research Associate will be responsible for performing the duties listed below:

• Identifying and pursuing work on emerging issues of significance to the state court community;
• Developing and securing funding for new research projects from federal, state, and private funding sources;
• Managing projects including effectively managing project resources, scope, quality, and budget using project management tools (e.g., Project Online), applying project management techniques (e.g., identifying risks, forecasting scheduling conflicts), and monitoring compliance with grant/contract requirements;
• Presenting and publishing research findings in journals of professional and academic associations (e.g., ABA, ASC, LSA); presenting results through facilitated workgroups or conferences to individual courts, administrative office of the courts, court-related leadership organizations (e.g., NACM, COSCA, CCJ); and designing products that effectively communicate research findings to diverse audiences (e.g., data visualization);
• Conducting and directing empirical and applied research and program evaluation including:
• Overseeing the design of qualitative and quantitative data collection instruments and statistical analysis
• Conducting site visits (interviewing, focus groups, observations) with constituents;
• Collaborating with and incorporating other research organizations and partners to provide consultation, technical assistance, and training to staff of state court systems, government agencies, academic institutions, media, and other organizations; and
• Supervising and mentoring junior staff.

To be considered for this position, candidates must demonstrate the following qualifications:

• Possess a J.D. or Master's degree in social science, public policy, or related field; and at least 10 or more years of experience in conducting applied social science research; Preference will be given to candidates with a Ph.D. in the social sciences, public policy, or a related field; or a J.D. combined with a Master's degree in social sciences, public policy or related field; and six years of experience conducting applied social science research.
• Knowledge of research design and statistical analysis techniques;
• Demonstrated experience managing projects from inception to conclusion and managing project staff;
• Ability to comprehend and assess the impact of contemporary issues on the state courts;
• Ability to think conceptually, synthesize data, and draw conclusions relevant for the court community;
• Excellent writing and public speaking skills that demonstrate ability to communicate effectively to diverse audiences (court-related leadership organizations, practitioners, and lay people);
• Ability to work effectively and collaboratively in a team environment; and
• Ability to travel periodically.

Candidates are required to submit a cover letter with salary requirements and a resume in addition to the completed application form.  Applications submitted by Monday, December 17, 2018 will receive first consideration.