(Special) Advisor on Forensic Science Policy

ABOUT THE INNOCENCE PROJECT

The Innocence Project works to free the innocent, prevent wrongful convictions, and create fair, compassionate, and equitable systems of justice for everyone. Our work is guided by science and grounded in anti-racism. Since our inception, the Innocence Project has used DNA and other scientific advancements to prove wrongful conviction. To date, we have helped to free or exonerate more than 200 people who, collectively, spent more than 3,600 years behind bars. Our efforts have led to the passage of more than 200 transformative state laws and federal reforms. Today, the Innocence Project continues to fight for freedom, drive structural change, and advance the innocence movement. To learn more, please visit www.innocenceproject.org .

ABOUT THE POSITION

The (Special) Advisor on Forensic Science Policy, contributes to the Innocence Project’s efforts to improve the quality and just and equitable implementation of forensic science methods, investigative technologies, and forensic medicine. These goals are accomplished through the adoption of policy changes, including legislation, that support research, national standards, oversight, and the development of valid, reliable, transparency, and equitable practices.

The (Special) Advisor on Forensic Science Policy leads a team (Forensic Science Policy Associate and Forensic Science Policy Specialist), reports to the Director of Policy, and works closely with federal and state advocates and  lobbyists, Innocence Network members, and staff from other Innocence Project departments, including Strategic Litigation, Data Science & Research, and Post-Conviction Litigation.

The Policy Department is hiring for one position, which will be filled at either the the Advisor level (for candidates with 9–12 years of relevant experience) or the Special Advisor level (for candidates with 12+ years of relevant experience), depending on qualifications and experience.

We are interested in every qualified candidate who is eligible to work in the United States. However, we are not able to sponsor visas and we are not an e-verify employer.

The duties of this position require approximately 40 hours of work per week to be performed virtually / in-office. We currently have a hybrid in-office model, with all employees in the office three days per week and the remainder of the week remotely. Wednesday is our organization’s “anchor day” where all staff works in the office. The number of required in-office days is subject to change.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

For the Advisor position, the Innocence Project seeks a seasoned science policy expert with a strong background in forensic science and at least 2 years of experience in criminal justice policy and reform for a total of at least 9 years of experience (see below

• ). They bring proven leadership experience managing cross-functional teams and driving national-level advocacy strategies. With exceptional communication skills, they can translate complex scientific issues into actionable policy and public education efforts. The candidate excels at building collaborative relationships with diverse stakeholders, including scientists, lawmakers, and justice advocates.

For the Special Advisor position, the Innocence Project seeks an experienced leader in science policy with a strong background in forensic science and at least 4 years of experience driving reform at the intersection of forensic science and the criminal legal system for a total of at least 12 years of experience (see below

In addition, all Innocence Project employees must embrace, respect and value the rich diversity of perspectives and lived experience of our staff.  We recognize and appreciate that our work is better for having varied participants and thought partners. The ideal candidate is someone who thrives in this type of environment.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

FORENSIC SCIENCE LEADERSHIP :

FORENSIC SCIENCE ADVOCACY AND OUTREACH :

Special Advisor on Forensic Science Policy

The Special Advisor on Forensic Policy will be responsible for all of the duties of the Advisor on Forensic Policy . In addition, they will have over 12 years of experience and will independently lead national initiatives to strengthen the integrity and use of forensic evidence in the criminal legal system. They will shape and execute high-level policy strategies and serve as a primary spokesperson on forensic science reform. This leader will cultivate and manage strategic partnerships with scientific organizations, academic institutions, and government agencies, while overseeing complex advocacy efforts.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

KEY COMPETENCIES + VALUES

Benefits

COMPENSATION, BENEFITS & PERKS

The salary for this position is highly competitive and the Innocence Project offers an excellent benefits package, including fully-paid individual health, dental and vision insurance, Flexible Spending Account, 401k plan with 6% company-match, paid disability and family care leave, adoption and fertility expense reimbursements, and company-paid transportation benefits.

WORKFORCE DIVERSITY AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

The Innocence Project considers the diversity of its workforce to be vital to our organization’s success in meeting its mission.  We strongly encourage applicants from all cultures, races, educational backgrounds, life experiences, socio-economic classes, sexual orientations, age, gender, and physical abilities to apply. Individuals with personal connections to the criminal legal system are strongly encouraged to apply.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, it is our policy not to discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, familial status, marital status, predisposing genetic characteristics, actual or perceived domestic violence victim status, unemployment status, caregiver status, or any other category protected by law.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

To apply, please click 'Apply for this Job' below. Upload a cover letter expressing your interest in the role and the organization’s work, and a resume titled with your name in this format (last name_first name_cover letter / resume). Only applications with cover letters will be considered complete applications. Information submitted through this secure site is kept confidential.

SALARY RANGE

For candidates considered at the Advisor on Forensic Science Policy level (9-12 years experience) : $127,500 - $150,000

For candidates considered at the Special Advisor on Forensic Science Policy level (12+ years experience) : $151,725 - $178,500