Professor of Public Policy, Racial Justice Approaches to Environmental Racism and Social Inequality

The University of Michigan-Ann Arbor invites applications for a Professor of Public Policy specializing in racial justice approaches to environmental racism and social inequality. This full-time, tenure-track or tenured position, based in Ann Arbor, offers an exceptional opportunity to advance scholarship, instruction, and policy engagement at the intersection of environmental conditions and equitable futures.

The Opportunity

The Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy seeks a faculty member prepared to establish and deepen academic inquiry into how environmental conditions—across physical infrastructure, built systems, and social structures—connect to racial injustice and inequality. This is a pivotal role for an intellectual leader who can shape the school's capacity to prepare students as policymakers, advocates, and scholars committed to environmental justice and equitable communities. You will contribute to the university's land-grant mission and its commitment to meaningful public engagement on urgent societal challenges.

Your Responsibilities

• Design and teach courses addressing environmental racism, racial equity in environmental policy, and intersections of justice and sustainability
• Conduct rigorous research and publish scholarship that advances understanding of how environmental factors influence social inequality and racial justice outcomes
• Mentor and advise graduate and undergraduate students in research, thesis work, and professional development
• Engage directly with affected communities, policymakers, and practitioners to inform and apply your work
• Participate in school and university service, including curriculum development, committee work, and program leadership
• Contribute to public conversations and policy discourse on environmental justice and racial equity

What We're Looking For

• Ph.D. or other terminal degree in public policy, urban planning, environmental science, political science, law, or a closely related field
• Strong research portfolio demonstrating expertise in environmental justice, environmental racism, racial equity, or related policy domains
• Proven ability to conduct and publish high-quality scholarship
• Teaching experience or demonstrated capability in higher education instruction
• Commitment to public engagement, policy impact, and service to affected communities
• Understanding of how physical environments, built systems, policy frameworks, and social structures intersect with race and inequality

Why Join University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

The University of Michigan is a leading public research institution with a mission to serve society through education and discovery. The Ford School is nationally recognized for its excellence in public policy education and research. You will join faculty and students engaged in tackling pressing challenges in environmental justice, equity, and sustainability. The university fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, provides robust support for research and teaching, and is deeply committed to diversity, inclusion, and racial justice. Ann Arbor offers a vibrant intellectual community and quality of life conducive to both scholarly excellence and civic engagement.

Next Steps

To apply, complete your application directly on this page, or you'll be redirected to the employer's application platform to finish submitting there.