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Police research

National Institute of Justice’s Strategic Research Plans

Thank you Kevin [Chair Kevin Bowling] for the introduction, and Tracy [Tracy Trautman, BJA] for your continued support of the Global Justice Information Sharing Initiative.

Many of you are familiar with the National Institute of Justice, and our role as the research, development, and evaluation agency of the U.S. Department of Justice. NIJ provides objective and independent knowledge and tools to inform the decision-making of...

Perspectives on Research and Evidence-Based Policing

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Every year, NIJ supports 30 midcareer, research-minded law enforcement professionals to take part in professional development and travel opportunities, network, and contribute to the policing and research communities through the Law Enforcement Advancing Data and Science (LEADS) Scholars program. The LEADS scholars are both practitioners and researchers. They work in the field while simultaneously striving to evaluate and improve the work done in their departments...

How Law Enforcement Culture Plays into Stress and Wellness

January 2020

John Violanti, research professor at University at Buffalo’s School of Public Health and Health Professions; Wendy Stiver, major at the Dayton (Ohio) Police Department; and Dan Grupe, associate scientist at University of Wisconsin’s Center for Healthy Minds, speak about how the law enforcement culture of not showing weakness might deter some officers from getting help if they are suffering from mental health issues. The subject matter experts recommend listening to officers and conveying that it’s okay to express emotions.

NIJ's Law Enforcement Advancing Data and Science Scholars Program for Civilians

New scholars selected!

Meet the 2024 class of scholars.

NIJ typically accepts applications for new scholars in the spring.

The Law Enforcement Advancing Data and Science (LEADS) Civilians program offers a unique opportunity to engage and partner with other NIJ LEADS Scholars, all of whom are mid-career police officers, fellow civilians, and academics dedicated to advancing the police profession through science. 

The program has...