UC Cooperative Extension Specialist - Agricultural Policy (AP 25-29)

Position Overview

The University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) invites applications for a UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Specialist at the Assistant rank.

Positioned within the UC ANR Policy Institute, this crucial new role will bridge the gap between cutting-edge agricultural research and policy development, offering a unique opportunity to drive science-based policy in California and beyond. The Specialist will pursue translational research and extension designed to enhance the effectiveness of UC ANR scholarship in applying research results to inform and shape policy decisions. Internally, the Specialist will help UC ANR researchers design projects that engage key state agricultural policy issues and translate research in a manner that informs California decision makers. Externally, the Specialist is likely to engage with a wide range of state and local stakeholders, including legislators, agency staff, and industry organizations, to support their access to and understanding of UC ANR research.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

• Collaboration with the UC ANR Policy Institute and UC ANR's network of advisors, specialists, AES faculty, statewide programs, and institutes, and CDFA staff, as well as external stakeholders, to conduct applied research and disseminate research results.
• Design and conduct policy research focused on food and agriculture. Potential areas of research include: cost analysis of agricultural regulations, policies related to strengthening California's food system, disaster and emergency management in California's agricultural sector, policy implications of technology and artificial intelligence in agriculture, water use in agriculture, farm labor policy, policies related to pest management, land use policy, climate-agriculture policy, energy policies related to agriculture.
• Lead efforts to translate research findings into real-world policy solutions.
• Build an effective extension education program (statewide trainings, workshops, educational resources, website, etc.) that helps ANR personnel and state policymakers better translate scientific findings into policy.
• Seek research and extension funding from federal and state agencies as well as 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.

Geographic Area of Responsibility

State-wide position serving the agriculture sector across California. Headquarters: UC ANR headquarters, 2801 2nd Street in Davis, CA.

Qualifications and Skills Required

Education: Ph.D. (or equivalent) in agricultural policy, public policy, public administration, economics, or related field.

Key Qualifications:

• Demonstrated expertise in policy at local, regional, state, and/or national level.
• Substantive experience in policy and planning for sustainable food systems, agriculture, or water resources.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Record of research productivity.
• Track record of engaging stakeholders.
• Experience leading collaborative teams.
• Valid CA Driver's License required.
• Authorized to work in U.S.

Desired Experience: Studies in agriculture/natural resources, securing funding, outreach/extension.

Salary & Benefits

Beginning salary: $90,600 - $118,500 annually. Comprehensive benefits, sabbatical eligible.

How to Apply

Visit https://recruit.ucanr.edu/JPF00346 (position #25-29). Closing for full consideration: January 3, 2026 (open until filled).

Contact: Kahla Wallace, kahwallace@ucanr.edu