Point Loma Nazarene University
Research Assistant, Center for Justice and Reconciliation
Point Loma Nazarene University, San Diego, California, United States, 92189
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. From collecting and analyzing data to conducting interviews, drafting reports and publications, and preparing materials for key research meetings and events, this role offers the chance to contribute directly to projects shaping local anti-trafficking efforts. It’s an opportunity to build skills in applied research, academic writing, and community collaboration while making research matter in the fight against human trafficking. Salary: Pay range: $20.58 - $22.22 per hour Internal Classification: Career Track - Support; Job Level - 2 Schedule:
18 hours per week, approximate one year assignment with eligibility to renew Job Status:
Part time 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. Responsibilities
Key Projects and Responsibilities Collaborate with the CJR Research Team on the San Diego County research project focused on anti-human trafficking. Conduct data collection, cleaning, and analysis. Assist with interviews (scheduling, conducting, transcribing) and request existing data and collaboration from local stakeholders. Contribute to the writing of the annual project status report for the County. Collaborative & Research Meetings Help identify presenters and build partnerships with San Diego anti-trafficking leaders and stakeholders. Prepare meeting/event materials (flyers, listserv messages, website updates, presentations, webinar setup). Assist in planning meetings, events, and collaborations with researchers and community leaders. Academic Writing Support the drafting of research reports, articles, literature review synthesis, abstracts, and articles. Format manuscripts, briefs, and other publications. Contribute to the development and formatting of research briefs and manuscripts for publication. Quarterly Updates Support compiling research findings, funding opportunities, and trainings for the San Diego Human Trafficking & CSEC Advisory Council. Coordinate with the research team on editing and sharing updates via listservs and other platforms. Support dissemination through social media and updates to the HT-RADAR website. General Research Support Assist with grant proposals. Coordinate events and collaborations with community partners. Support evaluation of CJR programs as needed. Minimum Qualifications
Academic background in Public Health, Criminal Justice, Sociology, Psychology, Political Science, Communications, or related field; graduate degree preferred. 1–2 years of research experience, including report drafting, data management/analysis, literature reviews, and manuscript co-authorship. Familiarity with human trafficking in the U.S. and/or globally. Proficiency in SPSS, NVivo, and Qualtrics (or similar tools) preferred Strong analytical, critical thinking, and writing skills demonstrated through a writing sample. Professional communication skills and ability to work with diverse stakeholders. Able to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment. Detail-oriented with strong time management, organizational skills, and 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
Work is primarily sedentary and may require sitting or standing for extended periods of time. Use of computer equipment: computer keyboard, mouse, and monitor. Vision to read and distinguish colors in documents, e-mail and other correspondence, and reports on paper and computer monitors. Hearing and speaking to communicate effectively with others in person and by phone. Will also stoop, push, pull, and lift up to 20 lbs occasionally. 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.
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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. From collecting and analyzing data to conducting interviews, drafting reports and publications, and preparing materials for key research meetings and events, this role offers the chance to contribute directly to projects shaping local anti-trafficking efforts. It’s an opportunity to build skills in applied research, academic writing, and community collaboration while making research matter in the fight against human trafficking. Salary: Pay range: $20.58 - $22.22 per hour Internal Classification: Career Track - Support; Job Level - 2 Schedule:
18 hours per week, approximate one year assignment with eligibility to renew Job Status:
Part time 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. Responsibilities
Key Projects and Responsibilities Collaborate with the CJR Research Team on the San Diego County research project focused on anti-human trafficking. Conduct data collection, cleaning, and analysis. Assist with interviews (scheduling, conducting, transcribing) and request existing data and collaboration from local stakeholders. Contribute to the writing of the annual project status report for the County. Collaborative & Research Meetings Help identify presenters and build partnerships with San Diego anti-trafficking leaders and stakeholders. Prepare meeting/event materials (flyers, listserv messages, website updates, presentations, webinar setup). Assist in planning meetings, events, and collaborations with researchers and community leaders. Academic Writing Support the drafting of research reports, articles, literature review synthesis, abstracts, and articles. Format manuscripts, briefs, and other publications. Contribute to the development and formatting of research briefs and manuscripts for publication. Quarterly Updates Support compiling research findings, funding opportunities, and trainings for the San Diego Human Trafficking & CSEC Advisory Council. Coordinate with the research team on editing and sharing updates via listservs and other platforms. Support dissemination through social media and updates to the HT-RADAR website. General Research Support Assist with grant proposals. Coordinate events and collaborations with community partners. Support evaluation of CJR programs as needed. Minimum Qualifications
Academic background in Public Health, Criminal Justice, Sociology, Psychology, Political Science, Communications, or related field; graduate degree preferred. 1–2 years of research experience, including report drafting, data management/analysis, literature reviews, and manuscript co-authorship. Familiarity with human trafficking in the U.S. and/or globally. Proficiency in SPSS, NVivo, and Qualtrics (or similar tools) preferred Strong analytical, critical thinking, and writing skills demonstrated through a writing sample. Professional communication skills and ability to work with diverse stakeholders. Able to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment. Detail-oriented with strong time management, organizational skills, and 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
Work is primarily sedentary and may require sitting or standing for extended periods of time. Use of computer equipment: computer keyboard, mouse, and monitor. Vision to read and distinguish colors in documents, e-mail and other correspondence, and reports on paper and computer monitors. Hearing and speaking to communicate effectively with others in person and by phone. Will also stoop, push, pull, and lift up to 20 lbs occasionally. 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.
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