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Undergraduate Researcher Intern

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We are seeking undergraduate interns for spring 2022 to lead research projects relevant to the criminal justice processes of the Lehigh Valley area of Pennsylvania. The ideal candidate is passionate about social justice and criminal justice reform. Our institute employs data driven research to identify deficiencies in the current system and propose solutions to these deficiencies. Interns will be responsible for producing academic level research projects and displaying research findings in the form of a white paper report, powerpoint presentation, infographic, and/or pamphlet. 

Interns will gain hands-on experience by collecting relevant data from a variety of sources, such as Lehigh and Northampton County jails, Magisterial District Judge Offices, DA’s offices, and local police departments. 

A main area of interest is Cash Bail relevant to low-level, nonviolent offenses. Interns may sit in on court proceedings to determine time spent making bail decisions by various MDJs, offenses relevant to Cash Bail, length of time taken to determine bail amount, etc. Interns will gain a deeper understanding of the various roles and actors in the criminal justice processes of Lehigh and Northampton County.

Interns may also embark on a project researching alternative 911 co-responder models. These models bring mental health experts to the scene of low-level, nonviolent emergency calls in an effort to mediate conflict and de-escalate tensions. 

Interns will work alongside staff to produce research reports. The Lehigh Valley Justice Institute prides itself on being a reliable and credible information source for the public. Therefore, at the completion of this internship, students will publish their project on the LVJI website and various social media outlets.

 

Qualifications:

• Students majoring in Political Science, Sociology, or Peace & Justice Studies are strongly preferred for this position. 

 

• A demonstrated ability to work with individuals of different races, genders, cultures, and socioeconomic status. 

 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 

 

• Strong research skills and the ability to properly cite credible information. 

 

• An ability to multitask, and to work independently to complete projects involving critical thinking in a time sensitive environment. 

 

To Apply:

Please submit the following via email to Joseph E. Welsh, Executive Director, Lehigh Valley Justice Institute, at joewelsh@lvji.org and nlevy@lvji.org. 

-Cover letter

-Resume

-List of three references with contact information 

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The Lehigh Valley Justice Institute is committed to the principles of Equity, Diversity, Belonging, and Inclusion.  The Institute encourages applications from all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, national origin, marital status, citizenship, disability, veteran status, or record of arrest or conviction. Formerly incarcerated individuals, or individuals impacted by the criminal justice system, either personally or through a family member, are strongly encouraged to apply. 

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