UC Cooperative Extension Specialist - Agricultural Policy; AP

Position Summary

Title: UC Cooperative Extension Specialist – Agricultural Policy (AP 25‑29)

Agency: University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR)

UC ANR invites applications for a UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Specialist at the Assistant rank. The Specialist will bridge research and policy development, translating UC ANR scholarship into science‑based policies in California and beyond. The role bridges cutting‑edge research and policy development, driving science‑based policy in California and beyond.

Open Date: October 30, 2025

Review Date: Saturday, January 3, 2026 at 11:59 pm Pacific Time

Final Date: Friday, April 3, 2026 at 11:59 pm Pacific Time

• Collaborate with the UC ANR Policy Institute, advisors, AES faculty, statewide programs, CDFA staff, and external stakeholders to conduct applied research and disseminate findings.
• Design and conduct policy research focused on food and agriculture, including cost analysis of agricultural regulations, disaster and emergency management, technology and artificial intelligence implications, water use, farm labor policy, pest management, land use, climate‑agriculture policy, and energy policies related to agriculture.
• Lead efforts to translate research findings into real‑world policy solutions.
• Build an effective extension education program statewide, including trainings, workshops, educational resources, and a website that helps ANR personnel and state policymakers translate scientific findings into policy.
• Seek research and extension funding from federal and state agencies and other sources.
• Publish findings, best practices, and case studies in accessible formats, including peer‑reviewed journals, ANR outlets, industry publications, and relevant online platforms.
• Participate in professional society activities and scholarly contributions, attaining state, national, and international recognition over time.

• Minimum of a Ph.D. (or international equivalent) in agricultural policy, public policy, economics, public administration, or a related field at the time of appointment. Candidates within 12 months of completing their degree are eligible.
• Demonstrated expertise in policy at local, regional, state, and/or national levels.
• Substantive experience in policy and planning for sustainable food systems, agriculture, or water resources.
• Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to present information clearly to non‑scientific and public audiences.
• Record of productivity in research evidenced by publications in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Effective engagement with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Experience leading collaborative research teams.
• Valid California Driver’s License and proof of liability and vehicle insurance on the vehicle used.
• Authorized to work for any employer in the United States at the time of hire.
• Disclosed misconduct or investigation disclosures required as per UC policy.

• Studies in agriculture or natural resources.
• Experience with integrated research and educational projects and extension to diverse audiences.
• Track record of applying for and securing extramural funding.
• Knowledge, experience, interest, and/or academic coursework related to outreach, extension, translational research, and science communication are highly desired.

• Curriculum Vitae – most recently updated C.V.
• Cover Letter
• Statement of Research – 2‑page statement of research and extension interests, including examples of potential goals and outcomes.
• References – 3 references: names, titles, and contact information.
• College Level Transcripts – electronic transcripts (PDF) of original transcripts; must identify course work completed, grades earned, degrees conferred, and confer dates.

UC ANR is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.

Contact Kahla Wallace via email at kahwallace.