Policy Impact Specialist Rooney Democracy Institute | University of Notre Dame

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Policy Impact Specialist Rooney Democracy Institute

Company: University of Notre Dame
Location: Notre Dame, IN
Employment Type: Full Time
Date Posted: 05/16/2026
Job Categories: Advertising/Marketing/Public Relations

Job Description

Policy Impact Specialist Rooney Democracy Institute

Policy Impact Specialist Rooney Democracy Institute

Notre Dame, IN, United States
Full-time
Dean of Arts and Letters
EIC1

Company Description
The University of Notre Dame is more than a workplace! We are a vibrant, mission-driven community where every employee is valued and supported. Rooted in a tradition of excellence and inspired by our Catholic character, Notre Dame is committed to fostering an environment of care that nurtures the whole person-mind, body, and spirit. Here, you will find a deep sense of belonging, a culture that prioritizes well-being, and the opportunity to grow your career while being a force for good in the world. Whether contributing to world-class research, shaping the student experience, or supporting the University's mission in other ways, you will be part of a dedicated team working to make a meaningful impact on campus and beyond. At Notre Dame, your work matters, and so do you!

Job Description
The Rooney Democracy Institute is seeking a strategic, collaborative, and mission-driven Policy Impact Specialist to help translate cutting-edge democracy research into meaningful public impact. This role will work closely with Rooney Institute faculty, research labs, and the University's Democracy Initiative to strengthen connections between academic research and policymakers, media, practitioners, philanthropic organizations, and civil society leaders. The Specialist will play a central role in advancing the Institute's mission by helping ensure that research on democracy and democratic governance informs public debate, policy development, and institutional practice.

This is a two-year, limited-term position. Contingent on funding, the position may be extended. The ideal candidate is based in Washington, D.C. with occasional travel to Notre Dame.

What is the Rooney Democracy Institute?

The Rooney Democracy Institute advances rigorous interdisciplinary research, dialogue, and public engagement focused on strengthening democracy in the United States. Through partnerships with faculty, students, policymakers, and practitioners, the Institute seeks to generate evidence-based solutions to the challenges facing democratic governance and civic life. The Institute works collaboratively across the University of Notre Dame and with external partners to connect research with real-world impact.

Key Responsibilities:

Research Translation & Communications

Develop, write, edit, and format policy-oriented outputs and reports for Rooney Institute research programs
Create high-quality written and visual content including publications, policy briefs, presentations, op-eds, reports, promotional materials, and infographics
Support dissemination of Institute research through communications strategies, social media, podcast content, and other public-facing platforms
Translate academic and technical research into accessible content for policymakers, practitioners, media, and broader public audiences
Collaborate with faculty to integrate policy impact and dissemination strategies throughout the research lifecycle
Partner with University communications and public affairs teams to support visibility and engagement efforts

Strategy & Policy Impact

Support development and implementation of policy impact strategies that connect democracy research to policymakers, government agencies, foundations, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders
Identify opportunities to elevate faculty research and advance evidence-informed policy conversations related to democracy and democratic governance
Monitor the broader policy and research landscape to identify emerging opportunities for engagement and influence
Coordinate with Rooney Institute leadership, the Democracy Initiative, and affiliated faculty to align outreach and policy engagement strategies

Policy Analysis & Opportunity Mapping

Conduct analysis of policy trends, political developments, and stakeholder priorities related to democracy in the United States
Produce briefs, memos, literature reviews, and background materials for faculty and Institute leadership
Track legislative, administrative, and policy developments relevant to Institute research agendas
Monitor emerging debates, methods, and trends in democracy-related social science research
Keep Institute leadership informed of key political and policy developments affecting democratic governance

Partnership Development & Evidence Dissemination

Build and strengthen relationships with policy partners, universities, think tanks, government agencies, NGOs, international organizations, and philanthropic entities
Represent the Rooney Institute in meetings, events, and policy discussions with external stakeholders
Coordinate and track policy engagement activities, follow-up requests, and outreach metrics
Support the planning and execution of meetings and events involving policymakers and external partners
Identify and monitor funding and partnership opportunities that align with Institute priorities

Qualifications
Required:

Master's degree required; or Bachelor's degree with 5 years of relevant experience; or advanced certification beyond a Bachelor's degree in research communications or related field
Strong interest in and knowledge of social science research related to democracy and democratic governance
Familiarity with quantitative and qualitative approaches to evaluating policy and program impact
Exceptional English writing, editing, and verbal communication skills
Strong organizational skills with excellent attention to detail and demonstrated initiative
Ability to organize and present complex information clearly and effectively
Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively across diverse teams and stakeholders
Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to build productive relationships across varied professional and cultural contexts
Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office and advanced word processing applications

Preferred:

JD, PhD, or other terminal degree in the social sciences or related field
1-2 years of experience in a university research center, policy institute, or public policy think tank
Experience conducting formal research and drafting policy briefs, memos, or reports
Experience supporting communications or public engagement initiatives related to research or public policy
Washington, D.C.-based candidate preferred, with occasional travel to Notre Dame, Indiana

Additional Information
Application Deadline to Apply: June 28, 2026

Hiring Pay Range: Up to $80,000 annually commensurate with experience

Term: Two-year, limited term. Contingent on funding, the position may be extended

Location: The ideal candidate is based in Washington, D.C. with occasional travel to Notre Dame

Required Application Materials: Resume and cover letter

The University of Notre Dame seeks to attract, develop, and retain the highest quality faculty, staff and administration. The University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or age in employment. Moreover, Notre Dame prohibits discrimination against veterans or disabled qualified individuals, and complies with 41 CFR 60-741.5(a) and 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). We strongly encourage applications from candidates attracted to a university with a Catholic identity.

To apply, visit https://jobs.smartrecruiters.com/UniversityOfNotreDame/3743990013154958-policy-impact-specialist-rooney-democracy-institute

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