Postdoctoral Associate – Mixed-Methods Gun Violence Research

About the role

The Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice at the University of Maryland, College Park seeks a Postdoctoral Associate to lead mixed‑methods research on community‑based gun violence. Working under Dr. Rod K. Brunson, the fellow will engage directly with impacted neighborhoods while contributing to a vibrant scholarly community.

Key responsibilities

• Design and implement research studies, including IRB protocol preparation.
• Identify and pursue external funding opportunities.
• Conduct face‑to‑face interviews and administer surveys in local communities.
• Manage and analyze data using appropriate software tools.
• Prepare manuscripts and disseminate findings to academic and public audiences.
• Build and maintain relationships with residents, public safety officials, and grassroots organizations.

Required profile

• Ph.D. in Criminology, Criminal Justice, or a related field awarded within the past five years.
• No prior postdoctoral appointment exceeding six years and no tenure‑track professional appointment.
• Excellent organizational, verbal, and written communication skills in English.
• Demonstrated ability to publish in top‑tier peer‑reviewed social‑science journals.
• Experience conducting culturally sensitive research with vulnerable populations.

Required skills

• Proficiency with data management software.
• Proficiency with analytical software.

What we offer

• Fully funded two‑year fixed‑term appointment.
• Opportunity to work within a leading criminology department and collaborate with community partners.
• Access to university resources and mentorship from a nationally recognized scholar.