Job Details

Institution: The Pennsylvania State University – Criminal Justice Research Center (CJRC)
Location: Pennsylvania, USA
Position Type: Full-Time, Term Appointment
Posted: 12/10/2025
Category: Criminal Justice

Position Overview

The CJRC, in partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (PADOC), invites applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar. This position involves collaborative research on correctional programs, offender risk and needs assessments, correctional policy analysis, and related areas. The Postdoctoral Scholar will also have resources to conduct independent research.

Key Responsibilities

• Data collection, management, and analysis

• Preparation of reports, manuscripts, and conference presentations

• Mentorship of graduate and undergraduate students

• Participation in collaborative and independent research projects

Qualifications

• Education: Ph.D. in Criminal Justice, Criminology, Sociology, Economics, Public Policy, or related field (required at the time of appointment)

• Experience/Skills:

  • Advanced training in statistics, causal inference, predictive analytics, machine learning, econometrics, and/or data visualization preferred

  • Research interest or practical experience in corrections, institutional or community programs, and program evaluation

• Candidates must have completed their Ph.D. within the past two years or be finalizing their degree

Additional Information

• Term length to be discussed during the interview process; continuation contingent on performance, funding, and university need

• Competitive benefits package offered

• Employment subject to background checks per university policy

• The position provides an opportunity to work with PADOC, a nationally recognized corrections research bureau, and access to Penn State’s top-ranked Sociology and Criminology department

Application Instructions

Submit the following online:

1. Application form

2. Letter of interest

3. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Recommendation letters will be requested for finalists. Review of applications begins immediately.

Contact: Gary Zajac, Managing Director, CJRC – gxz3@psu.edu

EEO Statement: Penn State is an equal opportunity employer committed to advancing equity, respect, and belonging for all employees.