RESEARCH & POLICY FELLOW - (CONTRACTUAL)

State of Illinois•Chicago, IL

5d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA) seeks a skilled policy and research analyst to serve as a Research and Policy Fellow within the Research and Analysis Unit. The Fellow will play a central role in translating ICJIA’s research and data into clear, timely, and policy-relevant materials that inform decision-making across Illinois’s criminal legal system and public safety landscape. Working under the supervision of a Director of Research and Analysis, the Fellow will produce high-quality, publication-ready legislative briefs, policy memos, testimony, and other written materials for policymakers, agency leadership, and public audiences. This role requires the ability to synthesize complex research quickly and accurately, write under tight timelines, and tailor communication to legislative and executive contexts. This position is best suited for candidates with strong writing and analytical skills, experience producing materials for policy or legislative audiences, and the ability to work at a fast pace without compromising clarity or precision. Candidates should bring subject-matter knowledge in criminal legal system and public safety policy, familiarity with legislative processes, and a demonstrated commitment to racial equity and the use of respectful, non-stigmatizing language.

Requirements

Master’s degree (or equivalent experience) in public policy, public administration, law, sociology, political science, social work, or a related field.
At least 2 years of professional experience in policy analysis, research, or legislative work.
At least 2 years of experience producing written materials for policymakers or public audiences.
Submission of a writing sample is required at the time of application. Applications without a writing sample will not be considered. The sample must be the applicant’s original work and may not be generated by or substantially produced using generative artificial intelligence tools.
Must be able to work independently and be available for check-ins with supervisor.
Must be able to pass background check.
Must have a valid driver's license.
Must be able to travel within the State of IL as needed for meetings, hearings, or agency events.
Must be able to meet in person occasionally at ICJIA's downtown Chicago office.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated experience producing high-quality policy briefs, memos, or reports for policymakers under tight timelines, including the ability to write clearly, concisely, and for decision-making audiences.
Experience advising or supporting legislative committees, commissions, or executive agencies on criminal legal or public safety reform issues.
Familiarity with Illinois’s criminal legal system, including diversion, reentry, and violence prevention initiatives.
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in interagency or cross-sector policy environments.
Experience communicating research across diverse communities.

Responsibilities

Produce high-quality, publication-ready legislative briefs, policy memos, testimony, and other written materials for policymakers, agency leadership, and public audiences.
Synthesize complex research quickly and accurately.
Write under tight timelines.
Tailor communication to legislative and executive contexts.
Translate ICJIA’s research and data into clear, timely, and policy-relevant materials.
Inform decision-making across Illinois’s criminal legal system and public safety landscape.