Evaluation of NIJ by the National Research Council of the National Academy of Sciences: NIJ's Response Panel Discussion at the 2011 NIJ Conference

• NCJ Number: 236843
• Date Published: June 2011
• Author(s): Thomas Feucht; Daniel Nagin; John H. Laub
• Length: 9 pages
• Agencies: NIJ
• Publication Type: Program/Project Evaluation; Presentation; Conference Material

Annotation

This is the audio and transcript of a presentation at the 2011 NIJ Conference that summarizes the National Institute of Justice's (NIJ's) efforts to improve its services based on the National Research Council's (NRC's) evaluation of NIJ's operations.

Abstract

NRC's evaluation of NIJ suggested that NIJ ensure independence and improve governance, strengthen the science mission, bolster the research infrastructure, enhance the scientific integrity and transparency of research operations, and establish a culture of self-assessment. John Laub, the Director of NIJ, presents NIJ's response to the NRC evaluation. Overall, NIJ views the report's recommendations as a blueprint for NIJ to follow in improving its operations. NIJ is in the process of drafting a change in the statute to establish qualifications for the NIJ Director in terms of experience with science and research and modify the term of the NIJ Director to 6 years. Other statuory changes being worked on pertain to the independence of NIJ in all aspects of its key work, particularly in commissioning research and in publishing and disseminating research findings. Also under consideration by NIJ is the development of a multi-year planning stage. Steps taken to strengthen the science mission of NIJ are also explained. Peer review panels are being considered. Steps taken to build a culture of science and improve the transparency of NIJ's work are underway as well.