5 Public Policy Professor Job Description Templates and Examples

Public Policy Professors educate students on the principles, theories, and applications of public policy. They conduct research, publish scholarly articles, and contribute to policy discussions. At junior levels, such as Assistant Professors, the focus is on building teaching and research portfolios, while senior roles like Distinguished Professors or Endowed Chairs involve leadership in research, mentoring, and significant contributions to the academic and policy-making community.

1. Assistant Professor of Public Policy Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a dynamic and innovative Assistant Professor of Public Policy to join our esteemed faculty. This role is pivotal in advancing our mission to educate future leaders in public policy, combining rigorous academic research with impactful community engagement. The successful candidate will contribute to our interdisciplinary approach, fostering critical thinking and practical solutions to today's pressing policy challenges.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and deliver undergraduate and graduate courses in public policy, ensuring alignment with contemporary issues and methodologies.
  • Engage in research activities that contribute to the body of knowledge in public policy, with a focus on empirical studies and policy analysis.
  • Mentor and advise students on academic and career development, fostering a supportive learning environment.
  • Collaborate with faculty across disciplines to enhance interdisciplinary research efforts and curriculum development.
  • Participate in departmental and university service, contributing to the governance and strategic direction of the institution.
  • Engage with external stakeholders, including policymakers and community organizations, to translate research findings into actionable policy recommendations.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Ph.D. in Public Policy, Political Science, or a related field from an accredited institution.
  • Demonstrated excellence in teaching and a strong commitment to student success.
  • Evidence of scholarly research that informs public policy debates and practice.
  • Ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively to a diverse audience.

Preferred:

  • Experience in policy analysis, program evaluation, or quantitative methods.
  • Strong track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Experience with grant writing and securing funding for research initiatives.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Proficiency in statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R, or Stata) for data analysis and visualization.
  • Experience with research methodologies relevant to public policy, including qualitative and quantitative approaches.
  • Familiarity with policy simulation tools and frameworks.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with students, faculty, and external partners.
  • Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative, and dynamic academic environment.
  • Enthusiastic approach to teaching and mentoring, with a passion for public service.

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE].

Additional benefits may include:

  • Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
  • Retirement savings plans with employer contributions.
  • Generous paid time off and sick leave policies.
  • Professional development opportunities and support for conference attendance.
  • Access to university resources and facilities.

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Location

This is a hybrid position, requiring candidates to work from the office at least 3 days a week, while offering flexibility for remote work.

Note: This position is subject to university policies on data privacy and confidentiality.

2. Associate Professor of Public Policy Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a dynamic and innovative Associate Professor of Public Policy to join our esteemed faculty at [$COMPANY_NAME]. This role is pivotal in shaping the next generation of public policy leaders through rigorous academic instruction, research, and community engagement. You will contribute to both the academic and practical aspects of public policy, preparing students to address complex societal challenges.

Responsibilities

  • Design and deliver engaging undergraduate and graduate-level courses in public policy, with a focus on evidence-based decision-making and policy analysis.
  • Conduct impactful research, publish in top-tier academic journals, and contribute to the broader discourse on public policy issues.
  • Advise and mentor students in their academic and professional development, including guiding capstone projects and research initiatives.
  • Engage with community stakeholders and policymakers to translate academic research into actionable policy solutions.
  • Collaborate with faculty across disciplines to enhance interdisciplinary approaches to public policy education.
  • Participate in departmental service, including curriculum development, faculty meetings, and accreditation processes.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Ph.D. in Public Policy, Political Science, or a related field.
  • A strong record of scholarly research and publications in reputable academic journals.
  • Demonstrated experience in teaching at the university level, with a commitment to innovative pedagogical practices.
  • Proven ability to secure external funding for research initiatives.

Preferred:

  • Experience in policy analysis or consulting with government agencies or non-profit organizations.
  • Strong connections with public policy networks and organizations.
  • Experience in mentoring students from diverse backgrounds.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Proficiency in quantitative and qualitative research methodologies.
  • Familiarity with data analysis software (e.g., SPSS, R, STATA) and statistical techniques.
  • Ability to utilize digital tools for effective teaching and course management (e.g., LMS platforms).

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, suitable for diverse audiences.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships across the university and the community.
  • A collaborative mindset, with a passion for fostering an inclusive and equitable learning environment.
  • Commitment to continuous professional development and staying current with trends in public policy.

Benefits and Perks

Salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE].

As a faculty member, you will also enjoy:

  • Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Retirement plans with employer matching contributions.
  • Opportunities for professional development and research funding.
  • Generous vacation and leave policies.

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sex, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

Location

This role requires successful candidates to be based in-person at [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

We encourage applicants who may not meet all qualifications but are passionate about public policy and eager to contribute to our academic community to apply.

3. Professor of Public Policy Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a forward-thinking and dynamic Professor of Public Policy to join our esteemed academic institution. In this role, you will leverage your expertise to educate and inspire the next generation of public policy leaders, engage in impactful research, and contribute to the development of innovative policy solutions. You will play a pivotal role in shaping the curriculum, mentoring students, and influencing public discourse on critical policy issues.

Responsibilities

  • Design and deliver undergraduate and graduate courses in public policy, ensuring alignment with current trends and methodologies.
  • Conduct rigorous research that contributes to the field of public policy, publishing findings in reputable academic journals.
  • Advise and mentor students in their academic and professional pursuits, fostering a collaborative and inclusive learning environment.
  • Engage with community stakeholders, policymakers, and academic peers to address pressing societal challenges through research and outreach initiatives.
  • Participate in departmental and university governance, contributing to strategic planning and policy formulation.
  • Present research findings at conferences and seminars, enhancing the institution's reputation as a leader in public policy education.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Ph.D. in Public Policy, Political Science, or a related field.
  • Demonstrated expertise in public policy analysis, with a focus on contemporary issues.
  • Strong track record of published research and scholarly contributions.
  • Experience in teaching at the undergraduate and/or graduate level.

Preferred:

  • Experience working with governmental or non-governmental organizations in a policy advisory capacity.
  • Familiarity with quantitative and qualitative research methodologies.
  • Ability to engage with diverse populations and foster an inclusive educational environment.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Proficiency in data analysis software (e.g., SPSS, Stata, R) and qualitative research tools.
  • Strong grasp of policy evaluation frameworks and impact assessment methodologies.
  • Experience with online teaching platforms and educational technologies.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex ideas clearly and effectively.
  • Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in education and research.
  • Strong interpersonal skills with a collaborative mindset, capable of working effectively in a multidisciplinary environment.
  • Passion for mentoring students and fostering their academic and professional development.

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE].

Additional benefits may include:

  • Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Retirement plans with employer matching.
  • Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
  • Professional development and continuing education opportunities.
  • Support for research activities, including grant writing assistance and travel funding.

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

Location

This position is hybrid, requiring a presence on campus at least three days a week while allowing for remote work flexibility.

4. Distinguished Professor of Public Policy Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a Distinguished Professor of Public Policy to join our esteemed faculty at [$COMPANY_NAME]. This role is designed for an individual with a proven track record of impactful research, innovative teaching, and leadership in public policy. The ideal candidate will contribute to advancing the mission of our institution by mentoring the next generation of policymakers and conducting groundbreaking research that addresses contemporary challenges.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and conduct high-impact research in public policy, contributing to scholarly publications and influencing policy discourse.
  • Teach advanced courses in public policy, fostering an engaging and inclusive learning environment for students.
  • Mentor graduate students and junior faculty, providing guidance in research development and career progression.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams on research projects that address pressing societal issues.
  • Engage with policymakers, practitioners, and community stakeholders to translate research findings into actionable policy recommendations.
  • Contribute to departmental governance and strategic planning initiatives, enhancing the overall academic experience.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Ph.D. in Public Policy, Political Science, Sociology, or a related field.
  • Ten or more years of experience in academia or a comparable research environment, demonstrating a strong publication record.
  • Proven experience in securing research funding and managing projects.
  • Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in teaching and research.

Preferred:

  • Experience with interdisciplinary research initiatives and public-private partnerships.
  • Proven ability to teach at both undergraduate and graduate levels, with a focus on innovative pedagogical approaches.
  • Established network within the public policy community, including connections with government agencies and nonprofit organizations.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Expertise in quantitative and qualitative research methods.
  • Proficiency in statistical analysis software (e.g., SPSS, R, Stata) and data visualization tools.
  • Experience with policy analysis frameworks and evaluation methodologies.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex ideas clearly to diverse audiences.
  • Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, fostering a collaborative and inclusive academic environment.
  • A commitment to lifelong learning and adaptability in a rapidly changing educational landscape.
  • Passion for public service and a genuine desire to effect positive change through education and research.

Benefits and Perks

[$COMPANY_NAME] offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with a comprehensive benefits package that may include:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement plan options
  • Generous paid time off and holiday schedule
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Support for research initiatives and conference attendance

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we do not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, or any other status protected by applicable law.

Location

This is a remote position within [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

5. Endowed Chair in Public Policy Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking an esteemed academic leader to take on the role of Endowed Chair in Public Policy. This position is pivotal for advancing our commitment to impactful research and policy development that addresses the pressing challenges facing society today. The successful candidate will leverage their extensive knowledge and experience to lead interdisciplinary initiatives, mentor emerging scholars, and engage with a diverse array of stakeholders.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and conduct innovative research in public policy that addresses critical social issues and informs evidence-based decision-making.
  • Develop and foster collaborative partnerships with government agencies, non-profits, and private sector stakeholders to translate research findings into actionable policy recommendations.
  • Mentor and guide faculty and students in their research endeavors, promoting a culture of academic excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration.
  • Organize and participate in conferences, seminars, and workshops to disseminate research findings and engage with a broader community.
  • Advocate for public policy initiatives that align with the institution's mission and enhance its reputation as a leader in the field.
  • Contribute to curriculum development and teaching in public policy, ensuring alignment with current trends and future challenges.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Ph.D. in Public Policy, Political Science, or a related field, with a strong record of scholarly publications and research impact.
  • A minimum of 10 years of experience in a relevant academic or policy-setting environment, demonstrating leadership and innovation.
  • Proven track record of successful grant writing and funding acquisition for research projects.

Preferred:

  • Experience in policy analysis and program evaluation within a governmental or non-profit context.
  • Established network of contacts within public policy circles and relevant professional organizations.
  • Experience teaching at the graduate level and developing curricula.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Expertise in quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, including advanced statistical analysis and data visualization techniques.
  • Proficiency in statistical software such as SPSS, R, or Stata, as well as familiarity with data management tools.
  • Experience utilizing digital platforms for research dissemination and public engagement.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present complex ideas to diverse audiences.
  • Strong leadership and organizational skills, with a commitment to fostering an inclusive and collaborative academic environment.
  • A visionary mindset with the ability to inspire and motivate others towards a common goal.
  • Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of academic and professional work.

Benefits and Perks

The compensation package includes a competitive salary commensurate with experience, as well as comprehensive benefits including health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities.

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are committed to diversity and inclusivity in our workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

Location

This position is remote within [$COMPANY_LOCATION]. We welcome applications from candidates who are committed to working collaboratively across geographic boundaries.

We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply, even if they do not meet all the specified qualifications.

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