National Institute of Justice Research Assistantship Program

Guidance for applicants on proposing rigorous evaluation designs for research components, including implementation fidelity, independence, and cost-effectiveness analyses.

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Award amountNIJ provides funds to participating universities to pay salaries and other costs

Last checkedJun 25, 2026

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NIJ's Research Assistantship Program

NIJ's Research Assistantship Program (RAP) offers doctoral students practical research experience. This is an archived page, no longer updated.

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Award amount

NIJ provides funds to participating universities to pay salaries and other costs.

Eligibility

Must be enrolled in a research-based doctoral-degree program at an accredited U.S. university.; Must be working towards a doctoral degree throughout the assistantship.; Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent U.S. resident.; Human Subjects Protection training is required.

Requirements

Statement of interest (1,000 word maximum).; Public Safety Challenge Essay (5 double-spaced pages maximum).; Résumé/CV.; Unofficial transcript(s).; One Letter of Recommendation.; Up to three contacts for reference checks.

Application materials

Statement of interest; Public Safety Challenge Essay; Résumé/CV; Unofficial transcript(s); Letter of Recommendation; Reference contacts

How to apply

Universities nominate enrolled students.; NIJ selects from nominees based on background and expertise.; Application period for 2025-2026 has closed; 2026-2027 applications will open later.; Graduate Program Director submits application materials to NIJ RAP manager.

Important dates

Application period for 2025-2026 academic year has closed.; Announcements for research assistantships are made in the fall.

Contact

NIJ_RAP@usdoj.gov

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