Description
Primary Function
The Department of Psychology at the College of Liberal arts and Sciences, Northern Illinois University (NIU), invites applications for the position of Research Associate with the Office of Translational Research.
Under the Direction of the Deputy of the Office of Research and Child Well-Being at the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) and the direct supervision of the Director of Translational Research, the Researcher supports applied and translational research projects to generate actionable insights for the Illinois child welfare system. This role contributes to the design, execution, and dissemination of research, supporting data-informed decision-making across DCFS. The Researcher position also engages in continuous quality improvement (CQI) practices and collaborates with internal staff, external partners, and individuals with lived experience to ensure research relevancy and utility.
NIU is looking for individuals with a Ph.D., in social work, psychology, public policy, or other related social science field who is experienced in research, program evaluation or data analysis.
The Office of Translational Research (OTR) acts as a bridge between scientific discovery and its practical application in child welfare, aiming to address gaps in knowledge.Grounded in principles of justice, equity, and healing-centered engagement, the OTR designs and supports the implementation of actionable, data-driven solutions which promote workforce excellence, improve family and employee well-being, foster innovative and equity-driven practice, and enhance organizational capacity.The Office of Translational Research is part of the Psychology Department at Northern Illinois University, and is funded by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.
With approximately 16,000 students, NIU is one of the largest public universities in the state of Illinois. The Department of Psychology is committed to building and sustaining an inclusive and equitable working and learning environments for all students, staff, and faculty. NIU’s geographical reach extends beyond its main DeKalb campus (65 miles west of downtown Chicago, 60 miles from the O’Hare International Airport, and 40 miles west of Naperville – a booming community with one of the best school systems in the nation.) to satellite campuses in Naperville, Rockford, Hoffman Estates, and Chicago as well as to students online. Illinois Department of Children and Family Services contracts with the Department of Psychology employs 97 staff across the state of Illinois and is committed to enhancing outcomes for the children and families served.
Requirements
Required Qualifications
Ph.D., in social work, psychology, public policy, or other related social science fields.
Experience in research, program evaluation, or data analysis.
For a more detailed description of this position, please refer to the following link:
Northern Illinois University | Search All Jobs
Background Check: This is a security-sensitive position. Before any offer of employment is made, the University and IDCFS will conduct a pre-employment background check, which includes finger printing, state police check, FBI, and child abuse and neglect (CANTS) background check.
Application Process
For full consideration, please submit application and documents through NIU online employment system Research Associate (36668)
Northern Illinois University | Research Associate (36668)
https://employment.niu.edu/postings/87844
Required Applicant Documents
Cover Letter – Please include your interest in employment with NIU and how your previous experiences position you for success in the role for which you are applying.
Curriculum vitae (CV)
At least one self-authored writing sample (e.g., journal article, report, dissertation chapter, etc.)
At least one example of translational research (e.g., infographic, brief, presentation slidedeck, poster)
Unofficial Transcripts (official transcripts will be required within 30 days of start date).
Applications submitted after 11/30/2025 are welcomed but will be considered as needed.
EEO Statement, Visa Policy, ADA Accommodation, Clery Act Information
In accordance with applicable statutes and regulations, NIU is an equal opportunity employment employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, religion, age, physical and mental disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, political affiliation, or any other factor unrelated to professional qualifications, and will comply with all applicable federal and state statutes, regulations and orders pertaining to nondiscrimination, equal opportunity and affirmative action. NIU recognizes Dual Career issues.
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.
NIU remains committed to ensuring that its recruitment and application procedures include full opportunities for applicants with disabilities. Employment opportunities will not be denied to anyone because of the need to make accommodations for a person’s disability during either the application or interview process. An applicant who believes they require an accommodation to participate in the employment process due to a disability may request that accommodation through the Accommodation Request Form. This form can be obtained by contacting the Office of Academic Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (ADEI) at 815-753-8399.
NIU provides information regarding campus security, personal and fire safety, including topics such as: crime prevention, emergency response procedures and crime reporting policies, in addition to crime and fire statistics for the most recent three calendar years. The Annual Security Report containing security and safety information is available at www.safety.niu.edu/clery or by contacting the University Police Department and Public Safety Department at 815-753-9628 to receive a hard copy. The Annual Fire Safety Report is available at www.niu.edu/clery/fire_report.pdf or by contacting the Environmental Health and Safety Department at 815-753-0404 to receive a hard copy.
