The Director of the Center for Crime, Urban Research, and Education (C-CURE) provides leadership for this newly formed center at the University of Houston-Downtown. This role guides the research efforts, data analysis projects, and programs that promote awareness of the work of the center. The center’s focus will be on crime and a unified way of reporting crime statistics for the greater Houston area that informs safety, economic and social well-being of the surrounding region as well as special projects in support of grant efforts and select multi-agency support special project. 

• Conducts research and analyzes data on crime statistics, economic trends, demographics, and social conditions in the Houston area to support public safety and community development
• Prepares and publishes reports, studies, and recommendations for law enforcement, government agencies, university leadership, and external partners to inform decision-making
• Develops and maintains databases for internal and external use, and identifies, writes, and manages grant applications to fund research and program initiatives
• Leads strategic initiatives focused on crime data utilization, predictive policing, community engagement, and economic development in alignment with university and C-CURE objectives
• Builds and sustains partnerships with law enforcement, government agencies, businesses, nonprofits, and regional organizations, including executing MOUs to support data sharing and collaboration 
• Provides technical assistance and promotes the university’s research and analytical capabilities to external stakeholders through reports, consultation, and outreach efforts 
• Oversees staff, budget, programs, and daily operations to ensure the center functions efficiently and aligns with institutional goals 
• Facilitates student and faculty engagement in research, data analysis, and outreach through internships and collaborative projects 
• Designs, implements, and evaluates community-focused programs and manages complex, grant-funded initiatives from inception to completion

• Performs all other duties as assigned 

Direct Reports:

• Has authority and responsibility for the supervision of professional staff, including performance management and development

Delegation of Work:

• Delegates tasks and responsibilities to staff members, ensuring alignment with their roles, expertise, and professional growth objectives, while providing appropriate direction and support

Supervision Given:

• Provides oversight and guidance to staff, ensuring timely completion of assignments, adherence to organizational standards, and continuous skill development

Required Education:

• Master's degree in a related field such as Criminal Justice, Public Policy, Public Administration, Economics, Urban Planning, or related field

Required Experience:

• Minimum of five (5) years of job experience in data analytics, technology, research and publication, public policy, criminal justice, and economic development, including prior supervisory or management experience

License/Certification:

• None Required

• A doctoral degree in Criminal Justice, Public Policy, Public Administration, Economics, Urban Planning, or related field

Knowledge:

• Knowledge necessary to perform the duties of the role effectively, including understanding relevant concepts, procedures, and tools

Skills:

• Strong analytical and empirical skills for interpreting data, ability to develop informed data reports and documents that can be used by multiple constituents and may inform policy decisions 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and the ability to present data and research clearly 

Abilities:

• Ability to provide leadership, manage staff, and build strong relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders 
• Ability to plan, organize, and execute complex projects on time and within budget 
• Ability to obtain required certifications as needed to ensure compliance and interaction with local law enforcement agencies and records

Primary Work Location:

• Works in an office environment

Physical Demands:

• Work is performed in a typical interior work environment, which does not subject the employee to any unpleasant elements.
• Individuals have discretion in relation to working, standing, etc., and has minimal exposure to physical risks