Summer 2026 - Research Intern, Vera Louisiana

Vera Institute of Justice • Brooklyn, LA

5d • $17 - $25 • Hybrid

About The Position

Vera's work in New Orleans began in 2006, when the City Council invited us to assess the criminal justice system and propose reforms as part of post-Katrina recovery efforts. Since then, we have become a nexus for advancing evidence-based reform and have demonstrated that change is not only possible but within reach. In partnership with people leading and working in the local justice system, city leaders, and community organizations, we are working to end unnecessary detention and develop innovative, collaborative projects that improve the delivery of justice in New Orleans and throughout Louisiana. Vera Louisiana is seeking a part- or full-time (21-35 hours/week) summer Research Intern to provide a wide range of support for our ongoing projects, including jail population reduction, increasing investment in thriving communities, and addressing Louisiana’s carceral impact in multiple parishes and at the state legislature. The Research Intern will be supervised primarily by the Associate Director of Research and will complete a variety of projects with other staff. This internship will provide an opportunity to gain knowledge and experience in applied social justice research, using research to advance advocacy goals, and criminal legal systems in New Orleans and other parts of Louisiana. The Research Intern will: Hone applied qualitative research and analysis skills Translate research findings to into clear themes and actionable insights through written summaries or presentations to inform program improvement or decision-making Gain awareness of the networks of advocacy organizations in Louisiana and how data can support advocacy goals About the role: 1. Research and analysis Conduct thematic analysis of qualitative data (e.g. interviews and focus groups) Support ongoing mixed methods research projects Review, organize, and analyze publicly available datasets Build skills in applied research, written communication, and systemic analysis 2. Partnership support Attend and take notes at coalition and partner organization meetings Build verbal and interpersonal communication skills Gain awareness about network of criminal legal system advocacy organizations and how data can support advocacy goals 3. Advocacy Prepare data to inform public policy advocacy Build persuasive advocacy and communications skills Gain knowledge about successful advocacy arguments and responses at a quick pace 4. Administrative Provide support for planned events and other related responsibilities that may arise Assist with scheduling meetings with internal and external partners Gain experience in routine, professional responsibilities

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in graduate school in a public health or social science program (epidemiology, sociology, political science, etc.)
• Interest in applied social justice research, particularly to advance policy reform and advocacy
• Familiarity with collecting and/or analyzing qualitative data to identify themes
• Familiarity with analyzing quantitative datasets to produce descriptive statistics
• Ability to show initiative, ask questions, and adapt to changing priorities
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills
• Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills
• A demonstrated ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or similar software
• Qualitative analysis software ( ie : NVIVO, Atlas.ti , Dedoose , etc )
• Quantitative analysis software ( ie : SQL, SPSS, SAS, Stata, etc )

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated connection to Louisiana, New Orleans, or the Deep South
• Willingness to travel to Baton Rouge on occasion
• Driver's license
• Reliable transportation

Responsibilities

• Conduct thematic analysis of qualitative data (e.g. interviews and focus groups)
• Support ongoing mixed methods research projects
• Review, organize, and analyze publicly available datasets
• Attend and take notes at coalition and partner organization meetings
• Prepare data to inform public policy advocacy
• Provide support for planned events and other related responsibilities that may arise
• Assist with scheduling meetings with internal and external partners

Benefits

• merit pay
• generous paid time off
• a comprehensive health insurance plan
• student loan repayment benefits
• professional development training opportunities and up to $2,000 annual for education costs and fees relevant to Vera work
• employer-funded retirement plan
• flexible time

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees