Graduate Research Assistant – Social Psychology & Jury Consulting

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented graduate student in Social Psychology (or a related field) to serve as a Research Assistant for a boutique jury consulting firm. This role offers a unique opportunity to apply academic theories of social influence, group dynamics, and decision-making to high-stakes legal strategy.

The Research Assistant will support the consultant in designing and executing empirical research—including focus groups, mock trials, and online surveys—to help legal teams understand juror behavior and refine trial themes.

Key Responsibilities

• Survey Design & Programming: Assist in drafting and programming online case surveys and juror questionnaires using platforms such as Alchemer, Qualtrics or SurveyMonkey.
• Focus Group & Mock Trial Support: Assist in the logistical coordination of in-person and virtual mock trials. This includes participant screening, managing breakout rooms, and taking detailed observational notes on juror deliberations.
• Data Analysis: Clean and analyze quantitative data from surveys and qualitative data from mock deliberations. Identify trends in juror attitudes, demographics, and verdict leanings.
• Report Drafting: Help synthesize research findings into clear, actionable memos and presentations for attorney clients.
• Participant Recruitment: Oversee the screening and recruitment of research participants to ensure a representative sample of the relevant trial venue.

Qualifications

• Education: Currently enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program in Social Psychology, Experimental Psychology, or a related behavioral science field.
• Research Skills: Strong understanding of experimental design and survey methodology. Familiarity with social psychology theories (e.g., attribution theory, persuasion, heuristics, and groupthink).
• Technical Proficiency: Experience with statistical software (SPSS, R, or Stata) and survey programming tools.
• Communication: Exceptional writing skills and the ability to translate complex data into layperson’s terms for legal professionals.
• Professionalism: High level of discretion and the ability to maintain strict confidentiality regarding sensitive legal matters.
• Availability: Flexible schedule with the ability to work occasional evenings or weekends depending on research schedules.

Preferred Experience

• Interest in Legal Psychology or "Law and Society" research.
• Previous experience with qualitative coding or thematic analysis.
• Experience in public speaking or group facilitation.

Why This Position?

This role provides a bridge between the laboratory and the courtroom. You will gain hands-on experience in the private sector application of social psychology, develop professional consulting skills, and see firsthand how behavioral science influences the American justice system.

Pay: $25.00 - $30.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Professional development assistance

Willingness to travel:

• 25% (Preferred)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Irvine, CA 92618