State Policy Associate - Lab for Economic Opportunities (LEO)

Summary of the organization 

The Wilson Sheehan Lab for Economic Opportunities (LEO) at the University of Notre Dame is a research center dedicated to reducing poverty by partnering with service providers to conduct rigorous impact evaluations. LEO’s mission is to improve lives through evidence-based programs and policies, empowering decision-makers with data that drives lasting social change.

While research is at the heart of LEO’s work, impact depends on adoption. LEO’s Policy and Scale team bridges the gap between evidence and action—working with policymakers and system leaders to help states build, use, and scale what works.

Summary of the role

The State Policy Associate will support the work of the Assistant Director of Policy and Scale by advancing LEO’s engagement with state policymakers and policy influencers. Reporting to the Assistant Director, this role applies policy analysis, relationship management, and strategic judgement to help states understand and adopt evidence-based approaches aligned with LEO’s research.

The ideal candidate is a strong policy writer and collaborator who can synthesize complex research into actionable guidance, track and interpret policy developments, and build trusted relationships with policymakers and advocacy partners. This role is well suited for someone who thrives at the intersection of research, policy, and implementation.

Responsibilities

State Policy Engagement & Relationship Building 

Build new and nurture existing relationships with LEO’s policy contacts across multiple states and relevant national associations.

Partner with state policy staff, advocacy organizations, and intermediaries to convene key stakeholders, including legislators, agency leaders, and service providers.

Serve as a trusted resource to state policymakers seeking to strengthen their use of evidence in decision-making. 

Policy Analysis & Evidence Translation  

Develop high-quality policy briefs tailored to state audiences, synthesizing findings from LEO’s randomized controlled trials and related research.

Translate complex research into clear, accessible guidance that supports evidence-informed policy decisions.

Advise state policymakers on evidence-based strategies in LEO’s core policy areas, including criminal justice, homelessness, health, education, and economic mobility.

Policy Development & Legislative Support  

Assist in drafting and advance the development of model legislation and policy frameworks that support evidence use and evidence building at the state level.

Track and analyze relevant state legislation, agency regulations, and other governmental actions aligned with LEO’s interests.

Identify opportunities where LEO’s evidence can inform active or emerging policy debates.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

Bachelor’s degree required in Public Policy, Political Science, Economics, Sociology, or a related field.

Minimum of 3–5 years of relevant professional experience in state policy, government relations, advocacy, research translation, or a related field.

Required

Deep commitment to LEO’s mission and to improving public policy through evidence.

Strong policy writing and analytical skills, with the ability to synthesize and communicate research clearly for policymaker audiences.

Demonstrated experience engaging with state policymakers, government agencies, or policy-focused advocacy organizations.

Familiarity with state legislative and regulatory processes.

Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple policy initiatives across states.

Collaborative mindset and ability to work effectively across research, policy, and implementation teams. 

Preferred 

Familiarity with evidence-based policymaking, program evaluation, or randomized controlled trials.

Experience in one or more of LEO’s core policy areas: criminal justice, homelessness, health, education, or economic mobility.

Location: South Bend, IN (or fully remote)