Position Summary
Michigan State University actively promotes a dynamic research and learning environment in which qualified individuals of differing perspectives, and cultural backgrounds pursue academic goals with mutual respect and shared inquiry.
The Associate Director supports the overall leadership and strategic direction of IPPSR by fostering connections between academic research and public policy, managing compliance and budgeting, and advancing outreach to state and local stakeholders. It also involves developing independent and collaborative projects, strengthening the survey research unit, mentoring staff, and cultivating a research-driven culture among faculty and students that emphasizes communication, policy engagement, and external funding.
The Associate Director will co-lead signature programs with the Director, such as the Legislative Leadership Program, Michigan Political Leadership Program, Policy Forums, and other educational and training programs. They will also support the Institute’s survey research unit, manage large-scale data projects like the Correlates of State Policy database and the Michigan Policy Insiders Panel, oversee the Michigan Applied Public Policy Research grant program, and mentor student research teams.
IPPSR operates within the College of Social Science and seeks to apply research to urgent public issues by offering survey services, educational programs, and fostering problem-solving relationships across academic and policymaker communities on society’s most pressing needs. This role requires a collaborative spirit, a commitment to public engagement, and the ability to translate academic research into actionable policy insights. The Associate Director will also contribute to fundraising efforts and represent IPPSR and MSU across campus and beyond.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide strategic leadership and operational support for IPPSR
- Co-lead educational programs and policy training initiatives
- Expand outreach to policymakers, campus units, and peer institutions
- Manage and grow large data projects and research dissemination
- Support budgeting, compliance, and staff development
- Engage in fundraising and development activities
- Oversee research teams and stimulate scholarly output
- Represent IPPSR in university and public forums
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.
Required Degree
Masters
Minimum Requirements
• Master's degree and at least 6/8 years' experience in fields of government law, policy affairs, or public policy or bachelor's degree and 8/10 years' experience in fields of government, law, policy affairs, or public policy
• At least three years' professional experience leading teams, managing projects in public policy arenas with increasingly responsible roles involving external relations, program development and execution, strategic planning, team building, conference coordination, budget development and administration, or related fields
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and maintain strategic alliances and relationships with a wide cross section of stakeholders
Desired Qualifications
- Strong familiarity with Michigan and national policymaking
- Strong writing, editing, and public speaking skills
- Commitment to civic engagement and public service
- Familiarity with strategic planning, organizational operations, and administrative procedures associated with a university setting
- Experience with data-driven policy analysis or survey research
Required Application Materials
• A cover letter detailing your interest and qualifications.
• A current resume/CV.
• The names and contact information of three references
Special Instructions
A valid vehicle operator's license may be required where needed to perform the position's duties. Knowledge of basic personal computer terminology and operations is also required, as is the ability to use e-mail and the Internet.
Standard hours are Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with occasional evening or weekend commitments.
Review of Applications Begins On
11/18/2025
Remote Work Statement
MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.
Website
ippsr.msu.edu
Department Statement
MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment, and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.
Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.
MSU is located in East Lansing, MI, with easy access to the state capital, its many great lakes, excellent school districts, affordable housing, Whole Foods, Horrocks, Trader Joe's, and two larger metropolitan areas (Grand Rapids, Detroit). The University is pro-active in exploring opportunities for employment for dual career couples, both inside and outside the University. Information about MSU's dual career support can be found at https://worklife.msu.edu/your-career/dual-career/.
MSU Statement
Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.
