At GRC’s annual conference last week, the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), a division of the U.S. Department of Justice, gave a presentation on its criminal justice research, development, and forensic science programming. The session was led by Renee Cooper who oversees the Office of Grants Management at NIJ, accompanied by Barry Bratburd, Acting Director of the Office of Communications at NIJ. Ms. Cooper spoke about NIJ’s mission, research and fellowship opportunities, tips for successful applications, and funding priority areas, particularly preventing and reducing crime, protecting law enforcement, and NIJ forensic Science. Some of the NIJ programs featured in her presentation were the Graduate Research Fellowships (GRF), W.E.B Du Bois Program, and Forensic Research and Development.

Graduate Research Fellowships (GRF) addresses the challenges of crime and justice at state and local levels. Eligible applicants are doctoral students in behavioral and social sciences and STEM, but the institution must apply on behalf of the student. Approximately $320,000 is available for 10 awards. Applications are due March 12, 2018.

The W.E.B. Du Bois Program supports research on the intersections of race, offending, victimization, and the fair administration of justice for both juveniles and adults. Approximately $500,000 is available for advanced scholars agreeing to mentor less experienced researchers. Early career researchers may apply for $100,000 in funding for secondary data analysis projects or up to $150,000 for research projects involving primary data collection. Applications are due April 30, 2018.

Research and Development in Forensic Science for Criminal Justice Purposes supports research and development in broader scientific fields applicable to forensic science. Awards of up to $500,000 are available. Applications are due April 23, 2018.

NIJ is also looking for qualified peer reviewers! Compensation for non-federal reviewers is $125 per application. If you are interested, send an inquiry to ojppeerreview@1-secb.com.