17th December 2024
Applications are now invited for the post of Policy and Research Coordinator with the Irish Penal Reform Trust (IPRT). This is a key function within the IPRT team, developing and coordinating our comprehensive body of evidence-led research and policy outputs to influence public and political debate. It is an opportunity to work in a small impactful organisation, driven by a shared passion for social justice, equality and human rights and where your contribution has the potential to really make a difference.
About IPRT
The Irish Penal Reform Trust (IPRT) is Ireland’s leading non-governmental organisation campaigning for human rights and best practice in the penal system, and for progressive penal policy in which prison is a sanction of last resort. We have a track record of achieving big impact for a small organisation. We do this through a combination of research, advocacy, engagement, public affairs, events and working in alliance with others.
Our work is evidence-based, informed by 30 years of experience, extensive research and proactive engagement with people affected by the penal system. Our aim is to shift the focus of our penal system away from its current emphasis on punishment towards approaches based on prevention, diversion, rehabilitation, and the integration of criminal justice policy with wider social policy. A more effective and humane penal system, which combats social injustice and has safer communities at its heart, also benefits communities and wider society through its emphasis on crime prevention, rehabilitation, and a reduction in reoffending.
Our model of change is that effecting reforms at the highest level will have the greatest impact for the largest number of people. To this end, we focus our efforts on generating evidence-informed policy research and recommendations, underpinned by human rights, while also working constructively with decision-makers to deliver effective penal policy in Ireland.
About the Role
The post-holder will have well-developed skills and experience in policy analysis and research programme delivery and planning, including project management and mentoring of volunteers. A core aspect of the role is leading on the research and delivery of IPRT’s flagship project, ‘Progress in the Penal System’.
The Policy and Research Coordinator will also provide key policy functions including engagement with domestic consultation processes and international human rights monitoring mechanisms. These advocacy activities require a consistent ability to respond to opportunities to influence policy makers at short notice and a current knowledge of both the penal policy context and the work of the organisation.
IPRT is an equal opportunities employer, and we welcome applications from people from diverse backgrounds as well as people with criminal records. We don’t ask for information about convictions during the recruitment process.
This position is full-time for a fixed-term contract of three years with a view to extension subject to funding.
The closing date for applications is 5pm on Monday 13 January 2025.
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to interview, which will take place as soon as possible thereafter.
Any queries about the role should be directed to director@iprt.ie.
Respect for rights in the penal system with prison as a last resort.