Research Assistant Professor - Managing Director of Policy and Operations

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Department:

School of Public Affairs

Time Type:

Full time

Job Description:

The Department of Public Administration and Policy in the School of Public Affairs at American University is seeking applications for a leader (who would be appointed as a Research Assistant Professor) to direct the policy work and support the management of a new Center led by Professors Jordan Matsudaira at SPA and Stephanie Cellini at George Washington University.  The Center will aim to conduct rigorous research to promote evidence-based policymaking and more equitable outcomes in higher education and workforce training, and to train higher education researchers to more effectively engage with and impact state and federal policy. This position will serve as the primary liaison between the Center and policymakers and other stakeholders, ensuring the research agenda and work of the center is timely and connected to current and future policy design questions.  The position will also ensure academic research is available and comprehensible to policymakers through meetings and presentations to key stakeholders, by writing and circulating policy briefs explaining the results and applicability of rigorous research to a lay audience. The position will also help coordinate strategic planning, manage its development work to ensure financial sustainability and adequate staffing of the center, manage staff, and oversee the operations of the center.

The salary for these positions will be generated through externally funded research activities. Salary and benefits are competitive, with an expected salary range of $140,000 to $200,000. Candidates should have at least 10 years of relevant work experience in federal and/or state higher education policy and a successful track record of policy development. Candidates must also have a proven track record in obtaining grants and contracts, and existing knowledge of the higher education philanthropic landscape. Familiarity with higher education and workforce data and research, key legislative and regulatory policy levers, as well as prior experience working in public policy at the state or federal level and recent experience working with legislators or other policy stakeholders are all a plus. There is no teaching associated with this position. These are non-tenure track positions for AY24-25 with the title of Research Assistant Professor. The initial appointment is for 12 months starting September 1, 2024.

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled, subject to ongoing budgetary approval. Please submit applications via Workday, please include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and the name and contact information for three professional references. Please email dpapsearch@american.edu if you have any questions.

Benefits

AU offers a competitive benefits package including a 200% matching retirement plan, tuition benefits for full-time staff and their families, several leadership development certificates, and has been recognized by the American Heart Association as a fit-friendly worksite. Click here to learn about American University's unique benefit options