Pathways to Research and Advocacy Fellow

Title:                   Pathways to Research and Advocacy Fellow (PtRA Fellow)

Unit:                   Center for Research, Inquiry and Social Justice (CRIS-J)

Reports to:         Senior Director of Research

Status:                 Full Time; Temporary; Non-Exempt

Salary:                $27.48 per hour

Timeframe:      12 months

Hours:               35 hours per week; Monday – Friday; 9am-5pm

Location:          On-site, Long Island City, New York

The Organization:

The Fortune Society’s mission is to support successful reentry from incarceration and promote alternatives to incarceration, thus strengthening the fabric of our communities. We do this by: believing in the power of individuals to change; building lives through service programs shaped by the needs and experiences of the Fortune community; and leveraging research and advocacy to help realize more just collective futures.

Purpose of the Position:

The Pathways to Research and Advocacy Fellowship (PtRA) is a comprehensive, 12-month full-time fellowship created by The Fortune Society (Fortune), led by Fortune’s Center for Research, Inquiry, and Social Justice (CRIS-J) and David Rothenberg Center for Public Policy (DRCPP). The fellowship represents a critical investment in advancing the integration of research and advocacy by centering the perspectives and expertise of those who have experienced incarceration. It reflects Fortune’s commitment to ensuring that research and advocacy are actively shaped by the diverse insights and visions of formerly incarcerated individuals.

The PtRA Fellowship follows a mentorship model, equipping fellows with the skills and insights needed to use research and advocacy as tools for transformative change. Throughout the fellowship, fellows will be immersed in the research and advocacy landscapes of New York City, working alongside seasoned researchers and advocates. They will gain exposure to a broad range of activities, from analyzing data to shaping public policy, fostering fellow’s ability to drive systemic change.

Core Competencies:

Mission, Culture and Fit – Selected candidate must embody the values and mission of the Fortune Society. This includes meeting our participants where they are in the re-entry process, demonstrating our values through compassion and understanding; and affirming that none of us should be measured against the worse things we have done. Second chances are the Fortune Way.

Communication – The PtRA Fellow should demonstrate writing, speaking, and listening skills that enable them to communicate effectively and compassionately with community members, participants, colleagues, and people impacted by the criminal legal system.

Responsible Research Conduct – The PtRA Fellow will be trained in study protocol as well as ethical guidelines for how to conduct research. The PtRA Fellow must be able to follow these guidelines.

Foundational Knowledge of Research – The PtRA Fellow should have a foundational understanding of research, including experience with literature reviews, study design, and data collection methods.

Principle Duties and Responsibilities:

• Fellow will receive mentorship and training on research and advocacy.
• Fellow will work on a longitudinal study on desistance from crime, contributing to analysis, public dissemination, and advocacy efforts.
• Fellow may also participate in other research and advocacy projects, including activities supporting Fortune’s legislative and policy priorities.
• Fellow will attend weekly supervision with the Senior Director of Research.

Qualifications:

• Foundational knowledge of research design and methods;
• Reside in NYC;
• 18 years of age or older; and
• Spent time in prison or/and jail.

Writing Sample Requirement:

Guidelines: Your writing sample should be a minimum of three pages and can include a variety of document types that demonstrate your ability to research, analyze, and communicate effectively. Acceptable writing samples may include, but are not limited to, academic papers, policy briefs, grant proposals, or detailed reports. The sample should ideally reflect your understanding of research methodologies or advocacy strategies, showcasing your skills in critical thinking and strategic communication. Please be sure to attach your writing sample before submitting your application. 

Travel Requirements – Travel to Fortune Society offices, as well as travel for research and advocacy related events.

Physical Demands (if applicable) - To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The responsibilities and requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skills, minimum education, training, licensing, experience and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

The Fortune Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be afforded equal employment opportunities without discrimination because of conviction history, race, religion/creed, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, military status, predisposing genetic characteristics, victim of domestic violence status or marital status.