Policy Impact Specialist | Rooney Democracy Institute

• Full-time
• Division:
  Dean of Arts and Letters
• Unit:
  Rooney Democracy Institute - 30151
• Job Family:
  Academic Aff
• Compensation: USD 61,077 - USD 103,410 - yearly

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!

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
• 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
• Mo…