"Director of the State and Local Policy Institute"

Job Details

Director of the State and Local Policy Institute
Position Information
Position Title: Director of the State and Local Policy Institute
Department: School of Law
Posting Link: https://www.ubjobs.buffalo.edu/postings/61086
Position Summary
The University at Buffalo School of Law is seeking a Director of its newly established State and Local Policy Institute. This Institute aims to spur policy development and implementation at state and local levels.
Key Responsibilities
• Teach one or more courses relevant to the Institute’s work and incorporating clinical/fieldwork components, starting in the 2025/2026 academic year.
• Provide opportunities for law students to participate in policy research and advocacy.
• Collaborate with community partners to identify potential areas for policy research and legislation.
• Develop and implement a strategic plan to expand expertise in state and local law, consulting with stakeholders across a range of areas.
• Assist in hiring a Research Coordinator and supervise the individual who fills that position.
• Participate in the law school’s fundraising efforts, especially on behalf of the Institute.
Outstanding Benefits PackageWorking at UB comes with benefits that exceed salary alone. There are personal rewards including comprehensive health and retirement plan options. We also focus on creating and sustaining a healthy mix of work, personal and academic pursuit - all in an effort to support your work-life effectiveness. We support your growth and development through our career coaching and training department and we qualify as a public service loan forgiveness organization. Learn more about our benefit packages.
About The University at Buffalo
The University at Buffalo (UB) #ubuffalo is one of America’s leading public research universities and a flagship of the State University of New York system, recognized for our excellence and our impact. UB is a premier, research-intensive public university dedicated to academic excellence. Our research, creative activity and people positively impact the world. Like the city we call home, UB is distinguished by a culture of resilient optimism, resourceful thinking and pragmatic dreaming that enables us to reach others every day. Visit our website to learn more about the University at Buffalo.
University at Buffalo is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and, in keeping with our commitment, welcomes all to apply including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Minimum Qualifications
• JD from an accredited law school, or senior-level experience in state or local government combined with a graduate degree in public policy or public administration.
• Excellent research and writing skills.
• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated commitment to public-interest law and legal education.
Preferred Qualifications
• Familiarity with law and policy design, advocacy, and implementation at state and/or local levels.
• Admission to the New York bar or the ability to gain admission within months of starting the job.
Salary Range
$125,000.00
Job Type
Full-Time
Contact Information
Contact's Name: Anthony O'Rourke
Contact's Title: Professor of Law
Contact's Email: aorourke@buffalo.edu
Contact's Phone: 716-645-3790
Posting Dates
Posted: 02/18/2026
Deadline for Applicants: Open Until Filled