Forensic Policy Associate

The Innocence Project, Inc. (the “Project”) is seeking a Forensic Policy Associate (FPA). The Project is a non-profit pro bono legal clinic, founded in 1992 by Professor Barry Scheck and civil rights lawyer Peter Neufeld, affiliated with the Cardozo School of Law/Yeshiva University. The Project represents prisoners nationwide for whom post-conviction DNA testing can prove innocence, and seeks to redress the underlying causes of wrongful convictions through systemic criminal justice reform.

Responsibilities and Qualifications:

The Forensic Policy Associate will administer all aspect of the Project’s efforts to increase the use of only valid and reliable sciences in the prosecution of criminal cases.

This will include:

• Analyzing and digesting major studies and assessments of forensic science and its use in criminal prosecutions
• Shepherding the formation of specific recommendations and paths of pursuit in administrative, legislative and judicial arenas;
• Serving as organizational liaison to the forensic community on these issues;
• Convening scientists and the forensic and legal communities, and
• Educating the media, public and lawmakers.

The ideal candidate will possess:

• A Masters of Public Policy or Public Administration and a strong science background (or comparable experience/education);
• A strong understanding of the scientific method;
• The ability to relate scientific concepts to lay audiences;
• Strong interpersonal skills;
• Comfort working with judges, lawyers, scientists and forensic practitioners;
• Familiarity with the political process (both the rules and the realities);
• Experience organizing large meetings or conferences; and
• A willingness and ability to travel.

Salary and Benefits:

Salary is dependent upon experience, and we offer a competitive benefit package including health/dental/vision, 401k, Flex Spending Account, transitchecks, discount rate at Health Club, and generous allocation of vacation and personal days.

How to Apply:

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with hiring at the earliest possible date. Please email resume, cover letter, and a list of three references to hr3@innocenceproject.org, with “Forensic Policy Associate” in the subject line. Please do not send zip files; they will be deleted.

Please, no telephone calls regarding this position.

The Innocence Project is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity.