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An investigative researcher with extensive experience in identifying research sources, analyzing information and writing concise text. Proven success in consolidating and synthesizing seemingly disparate facts to uncover previously unidentified information. Served as an integral member of the reporting team that won the Pulitzer Prize for coverage of the 1994 Northridge earthquake while a researcher at the Los Angeles Times. Strong writer with broad knowledge and understanding of a wide range of subject areas, with proven ability to produce well-written, accurate and interesting reports on tight deadlines. Able to relate well with newsmakers and colleagues while dealing with sensitive information and maintaining confidentiality.
- Proven career accomplishments in researching, analyzing and writing for the Los Angeles Times, encompassing breaking news, long-term investigative projects and special assignments.
- Comprehensive knowledge of research techniques and resources; excellent online searching skills utilizing Lexis/Nexis, ChoicePoint-Autotrack, Dow Jones Factiva and other specialized databases; skilled in utilizing Internet, traditional print, commercial and public information sources and databases; adept in using Microsoft Office products such as Word and Excel.
- Excellent interviewing and interpersonal skills; experienced and professional in handling highly confidential and sensitive information. Demonstrated ability to work well in a high-pressure, deadline-driven environment, either independently or as part of a team.
Professional Experience
YATES RESEARCH GROUP; Los Angeles, California
Owner; Freelance Research and Consulting Company (2008-present)
--Providing research and analysis to a diverse clientele in a variety of subjects. Main projects include supporting research for a Caltech economic anthropology professor; a book project for a leading California investigative journalist; various magazine and other freelance projects.
LOS ANGELES TIMES; Los Angeles, California
Research Editor - National Political Desk (2007-2008)
--Assisted in all aspects of coverage of the 2008 national presidential campaign, including researching candidates’ positions on issues; creating graphics to accompany stories; assisting national political editors and reporters, providing background information for use in stories.
--Coordinated logistics to set up working bureaus in Des Moines, IA and Manchester, NH.
--Served as an integral member of the out-of-state reporting teams.
Research Editor - Los Angeles Times Sunday magazine (2006-2007)
--Provided news judgment and supervision for fact checkers, student interns, freelance writers and staff reporters working on articles for the newspaper's 40 to 60-page weekly news/lifestyle magazine.
--Performed Internet, commercial database and primary source material research for diverse subjects (i.e. legal, scientific, fashion, travel and personalities).
--Assisted in coordinating graphics for articles.
--Authored articles for both web and print publication.
Researcher/Reporter - National Desk (2001-2006)
--Member of news teams that researched and reported on high-profile, breaking and groundbreaking national events.
--Project highlights included: 9/11 terrorism attacks and the aftermath; investigation of flawed U.S. voting systems in the 2000 election; exposure of criminals licensed to carry concealed weapons in Texas; 2000 Democratic National Convention; corruption in Nevada judiciary.
Researcher/Reporter - Business Section (1999-2001)
--Conceived, developed and wrote news in graphic and story form.
--Assimilated and condensed large amounts of material into clear, accurate text for use in graphics and articles.
--Contributed to 100 graphics and stories in various sections of the newspaper in one year.
--Project highlights included: China's free-trade status; Microsoft antitrust case; human genome story; California's energy crisis.
Senior Editorial Researcher - Metro Section (1992-1999)
--Located, evaluated and synthesized information for graphics, charts, tables and sidebars in a clear, concise and accurate manner.
--Worked closely with artists and editors to create graphics.
--Interviewed sources and conducted online searches.
--Served as writer for weekly science calendar.
--Contributed to numerous series and news stories, including: California’s tax system; immigration; environmental changes in the Sierra Nevada range; state, federal and local elections; Southland transportation systems; the Los Angeles riots; Southland firestorms; and the Northridge earthquake.
Senior Librarian - Editorial Library (1983-1992)
--Provided research and reference services to reporters, editors, and other users of the Times' editorial library.
--Assisted reporters in obtaining information for use in stories, often under deadline pressure.
--Conducted extensive online research utilizing Times' database, commercial database services, public records, and other databases/sources.
--Initiated and organized Times' seminar on the use of public records and related laws.
Skills and Specialties
Extensive knowledge of online searching techniques using Lexis/Nexis, Dow Jones Factiva, ChoicePoint-Autotrack, PACER, Merlin and other commercial and public records databases.
Technical Skills
Word, Excel, familiarity with Microsoft Access, other word-processing programs.