The Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics (AAE) in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS), together with the Division of Extension (EXT) at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor in community economic development. This is a jointly appointed faculty position to both AAE and the Department of Extension, with the tenure home in AAE. Within Extension, the candidate will affiliate with the Community Development Institute. The position is funded 75% EXT/ 25% CALS and structured as a 12-month appointment. Given the outreach expectations of the Extension appointment, there is no requirement for traditional group instruction in the undergraduate or graduate program.
The ideal candidate has demonstrated research potential in rural and/or community economic development and complements existing departmental strengths in agricultural, environmental, community, and/or development economics. We seek candidates with evidence of the ability to combine rigorous economic research with effective outreach and who have demonstrated a strong commitment to public engagement and real-world impact.
As a faculty member, the candidate will lead regionally and nationally recognized research, outreach, and educational programming focused on community economic development within the United States, with relevance to Wisconsin. They will design and conduct applied research to address challenges facing rural communities. The faculty member will translate research findings into practical, accessible resources for stakeholders, such as local governments, nonprofit organizations, and community leaders. The faculty member is expected to support the university’s mission of fostering inclusive, sustainable community growth, as well as the scholarly life of the department through collegial engagement, mentorship, and service.
This position offers an outstanding opportunity for impact by working at a top land-grant institution, joining an established network of community development professionals across the state and nationally, and working directly with local leaders and communities.
At the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the Division of Extension collaborates with many departments to hire, fund, and tenure faculty who generate research directly applicable to Wisconsin communities and outreach in support of Extension programming. These co-funded faculty work collaboratively with Extension educators, other faculty, and external partners through research, outreach, and extramural funding opportunities related to their subject-matter expertise. While tenured in the department of their field of study, Extension activities are a significant portion of their duties and performance evaluation.