Somerville, MA-- Investigative Journalist or Researcher--Political Research Associates

Investigative Journalist or Researcher



Salary: Compensation based on experience
Education: Bachelor (BA, BS, etc.)
Location: Somerville, Massachusetts, 02144, United States
Posted by: Political Research Associates
Job Category: Investigation and Inspection
Language(s): English
Job posted on: April 17, 2009
Area of Focus: Media and Journalism


Description:
Domestic Surveillance and Political Repression Project of Political Research Associates
Contract Investigative Journalist or Researcher

PRA seeks an investigative journalist or researcher to help map the overarching infrastructure of the government’s domestic security apparatus in Massachusetts.

The ideal candidate will possess strong research and investigative skills. Current contacts in law enforcement and government agencies a plus. This is a three-month contract position. Compensation based upon qualifications.

Duties

The contract investigator will:

? Document the relationships among an array of government (local, state, and federal) and private entities in the field of domestic intelligence in Massachusetts;
? detail the composition and policies of these agencies;
? report on techniques employed;
? document abuses and threats to civil liberties;
? obtain and interpret documents;
? work with civil liberties advocates and other allies;
? research potential targets of government surveillance and repression; and
? produce well-written, timely reports of investigative findings.

Organizational and Project Background

Political Research Associates (PRA), founded in 1981, is a progressive think tank devoted to supporting movements that are building a more just and inclusive democratic society. We expose movements, institutions, and ideologies that undermine human rights.

PRA recently launched an investigation into America’s domestic security apparatus as part of our Civil Liberties Project. This project aims to develop an understanding of how the “post 9/11” configuration of law enforcement and intelligence agencies is mobilized (e.g., through JTTFs, fusion centers) in ways that threaten the rights of dissidents, immigrants, and religious and ethnic communities.

Since 9/11, public records requests and litigation have exposed surveillance and other repressive measures by state and federal actors, but such information has yielded a partial picture of this infrastructure. This research project will map the overarching infrastructure of domestic spying operations at several sites around the country, including Massachusetts.
Additional Qualifications:
Minimum Qualifications

Qualified candidates will have some previous experience with investigative journalism, criminal investigation, or field research; a demonstrated knowledge of investigator’s tools; and the ability to develop sources or use existing sources within the law enforcement and government community.

Candidate must be a team player who understands the value of this investigation for the civil liberties community and those who may be targeted as “terrorist threats.” Track record of exposing government abuses a plus.

Candidate should be committed to defending civil liberties. Other factors that will be considered include:

? Masters or Bachelors degree in journalism, political science, sociology, criminal justice or related field.
? Previous experience working with civil liberties advocacy and/or targeted populations
? Excellent oral and written skills and the ability to work collaboratively
How to Apply:
Please email cover letter, resume, and writing sample to Cindy Savage-King at c.king@publiceye.org;

Respond by April 27, 2009

Political Research Associates
1310 Broadway, Suite 201
Somerville, MA 02144-1837
(617) 666-5300