James Q. Wilson Visiting Professor of Public Policy

James Q. Wilson Visiting Professor of Public Policy

The School of Public Policy of Pepperdine University invites qualified candidates with a strong research background in the quantitative aspects of public policy analysis to apply for the James Q. Wilson Visiting Professor of Public Policy position for the academic year 2018-2019. This position may be renewed for a second year (2019-2020) upon mutual agreement. To be seriously considered, applicants will demonstrate in their very first correspondence that they are familiar with the mission of Pepperdine University and the unique approach of the Pepperdine School of Public Policy, with its interdisciplinary emphasis on the moral and historic underpinnings of free institutions and its recognition of the key role of the “public” in solving policy challenges.

The School of Public Policy, founded in 1997, has nearly 100 graduate students in its facility overlooking expansive views of the Pacific Ocean. In addition to the Master of Public Policy degree, the school also offers joint MPP/MBA, MPP/JD, and MPP/MA in Dispute Resolution programs. The school’s unique James Q. Wilson Core requires coursework in economics and statistics, as well as study in the history and philosophy of American political institutions and a survey of the "Great Ideas" that have influenced the citizen/government relationship. Current students emphasize one or more of four specializations including the American political system, economics, international relations and national security, or state and local policy. Faculty must be qualified to interact with a diverse student population including full-time residential students who may have more than ten years’ experience in various professional fields.

The James Q. Wilson Visiting Professor will teach a core policy analysis class in the fall and spring semesters along with an elective course in the spring semester. Responsibilities for the position will also include advising graduate students in their career considerations, engaging with faculty in at least one co-curricular public event, and offering a public lecture during the academic year as part of a named lecture series.

Candidates can come from academic and think tank environments, but should have teaching experience (graduate-level coursework preferred). Minimum basic qualifications required are PhD, DPhil, JD, or equivalent degree at the time of application. Candidates will be innovative scholars able to demonstrate expertise in the policy arena and the role of quantitative and philosophical elements of public policy analysis and public leadership. Areas of policy expertise may include, but are not limited to, energy, environmental, tax, healthcare, education, civic engagement, entitlement, criminal justice, and the impact of “big data” on research into these policy areas and/or related fields.

Applicants will also have demonstrated scholarly capabilities and evidence of strong teaching ability. Salary and benefits for the non-tenure, James Q. Wilson Visiting Professor position will be commensurate with experience. This position could transition to a tenure-track position at the conclusion of the two years upon mutual agreement.

As a Christian University affiliated with the Churches of Christ, Pepperdine treats everyone with the respect and kindness that we have been called to show one another. The University community is a space where lives intersect and knowledge is discovered, which fortifies the strength found in our differences and uncovers the virtues revealed in diversity, unity, and restoration. To that end, Pepperdine is committed to fostering an environment free from discrimination as described in California Education Code Section 66270 and reserves its right to remain a Christian University by favoring co-religionists in its admissions decisions.

Preference will be given to applications postmarked before December 15, 2017. To apply, please send a curriculum vitae, and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of three references to: Pete Peterson, Dean, Pepperdine University, School of Public Policy, 24255 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA, 90263-7490.