Senior Researcher, Criminal Justice

Senior Researcher, Criminal Justice – United States Program Human Rights Watch (HRW) seeks a Senior Researcher to lead criminal justice research and advocacy within the United States Program (USP). The role reports to the Director of the US Program and will be based near one of HRW’s US offices (New York, Washington DC, Chicago, Miami, Los Angeles, or San Francisco). Responsibilities Monitor legal and policy developments; identify and highlight criminal-legal system human rights trends and emerging issues; analyze abuses within broader context to investigate contributing factors and avenues for change. Lead internal policy discussions on relevant issues and make strategic recommendations regarding research and advocacy projects. Research, monitor, and analyze policies and practices across the US criminal justice system, including interviewing affected persons, professionals, and experts, and conducting desk research, filing public records requests, and accessing public documents and data. Write accurate, unbiased, and comprehensive reports, briefing papers, policy comments, advocacy letters, news releases, op‑eds, and submissions to national and international bodies, using a human‑rights lens. Work closely with partner coalitions, building new alliances and ensuring HRW’s contributions align with coalition needs. Communicate regularly with a wide range of participants in, and observers of, the criminal justice system, including litigators, to identify reform opportunities. Develop advocacy strategies and innovative approaches, including public debate, to change abusive laws, policies, and practices directed at local, state, and federal officials and the media. Respond to news events, pose human rights issues, and conduct media interviews on behalf of HRW. Liaise effectively with HRW staff nationwide and internationally to coordinate research and advocacy activities. Assist in building donor relationships with foundations and individuals; traveling domestically and internationally as required. Work flexible hours to accommodate urgent events and participate in organizational meetings and events. Perform other tasks as required to support the program. Qualifications Education: A U.S. law degree (J.D.) or an advanced degree in U.S. criminal law/policy, journalism, public policy, or a related field is required. Experience: Minimum of seven years of relevant experience, such as work as a criminal defense attorney or other litigator, investigative journalist, analyst, or advocate on criminal justice policies at an NGO, court, academic institution, or government. Experience in designing and leading complex research projects from inception through publication is essential. Researchers of color, Black, Indigenous, and other people of color, and individuals from communities impacted by the criminal legal system are especially encouraged to apply. Candidates from traditionally underrepresented groups are also strongly encouraged. Required Skills and Knowledge Extensive knowledge of criminal and racial justice, civil and human rights issues in the United States, and ability to identify, monitor, and evaluate trends for research and advocacy. Demonstrated ability to design and conduct complex, innovative research, including trauma-informed interviews, community-based projects, and policy advocacy with minimal supervision. Experience working successfully with communities that have suffered civil or human rights violations, particularly communities of color and economically disadvantaged groups. Familiarity with human‑rights research methodologies and both local and international advocacy environments. Experience in combating structural barriers to racial and criminal justice and collaborating with communities led by directly impacted people. Ability to write and edit accurate, persuasive, analytical, and timely reports and media products; proficiency with images, audio, video, data, and online tools. Dynamic public speaking skills in English; Spanish language skills are desirable. Strong initiative, follow‑through, and creative, strategic thinking, even on short timelines. Excellent interpersonal skills to collaborate within HRW and with external partners including government officials and media. Strong planning and organizing skills, with the ability to multi‑task and work under pressure. Logistics Travel: Domestic and international travel may be required for research, advocacy, and organizational events. Work Hours: Flexibility is required; the role may be based in or near a US office and work in the office up to three days per week. Work Authorization: Applicants must possess valid U.S. work authorization; HRW cannot guarantee sponsorship. Salary and Benefits Salary range: $88,000 – $104,000 per year. Benefits include comprehensive employer-paid health insurance (medical, dental, vision, disability, life), a retirement savings plan, and 20 days of vacation per year. Equal Employment Opportunity Human Rights Watch is an equal‑opportunity employer and actively seeks a diverse applicant pool. HRW does not discriminate on the basis of disability, age, gender identity and expression, national origin, race and ethnicity, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or criminal record. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and encourage individuals who are traditionally underrepresented in the human‑rights sector to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr Human Rights Watch