Responsibilities
Research assistants in the 3D lab work on two projects: the Crossroads Study and the Young Adult Court. The Crosssroads Study examines the developmental trajectories of juvenile delinquency, develops diagnostics to improve the identification of treatment needs among youthful offenders, and explores the practical, legal, and economic implications of this research. The Young Adult Court (YAC) of Orange County was founded in response to the misalignment between developmental research and the application of criminal justice policies for transitional-aged youths. The YAC is a collaboration between the Defense Attorney, the District Attorney, Probation Officers, the Judge, the Orangewood Foundation and University of California, Irvine. Dr. Elizabeth Cauffman and her research team are evaluating the efficacy of the YAC in reducing recidivism and promoting prosocial outcomes.
For both studies, research assistants are primarily responsible for tracking youth between interviews, scheduling interviews with youth, and interviewing youth face-to-face in the community or in facilities. Additional responsibilities vary based on need, but may include data entry, literature searches and reviews, and file management tasks.
Research assistants in the 3D lab gain valuable research experience, mentorship opportunities, and may earn course credit as well.
Hiring Process
Each quarter, the Development, Disorder, and Delinquency Lab evaluates a need for Research Assistants. New RAs are typically selected at least once a year, at the beginning of the quarter. We maintain a waiting list for applicants interested in future work in the lab when we are not actively recruiting RAs.
Selection Criteria
Research assistants in the 3D lab must have
- Dedication, motivation, and an interest in psychology, criminal law, and research
- A GPA of 3.0 or higher
- A car and car insurance
- A 10 hours per week commitment to lab
- The ability to spend 12 full, consecutive months (including summer months) in lab
- The ability to attend mandatory weekly meetings, Monday from 1-2pm
How to Apply
Interested in applying? Complete an application and email it, along with any questions, to the 3D Lab Manager, Alyssa Briones, at acbrione@uci.edu.