Policy Fellow

Erikson Institute is seeking a Policy Fellow to join our community of scholars, educators, and practitioners working to transform early childhood systems. This two-year post-doctoral fellowship is designed for emerging scholars whose work bridges research, policy, and practice—and who are committed to advancing equity, belonging, and opportunity for young children, families, and communities.

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful, systems-level change while developing your own scholarly and policy leadership.

About Erikson Institute

Erikson Institute is a premier graduate school in child development, early childhood education, and social work. We prepare professionals, generate knowledge, and advance systems that support the healthy development, well-being, and learning of young children, their families, and communities.

We see ourselves as the “workforce behind the workforce”—strengthening the systems that shape children’s lives through research, education, and policy leadership.

The Opportunity

The Policy Fellow will play a central role in advancing Erikson’s work at the intersection of research, policy, and systems change. This position is ideal for a scholar who is eager to translate research into action, engage with real-world policy challenges, and collaborate across sectors.

You will work closely with faculty, institutional leaders, and external partners to shape policy conversations, contribute to funded research, and support the development of a more equitable early childhood system.

What You’ll Do

Teach and Mentor

• Teach two graduate-level courses per year (or equivalent), aligned with your expertise
• Support student learning in a mission-driven, equity-centered environment

Advance Policy and Systems Change

• Develop policy briefs, white papers, and research-informed analyses
• Contribute to local, state, and national conversations in early childhood policy and workforce development
• Translate research into actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners

Engage in Research and Scholarship

• Maintain an active research agenda, including peer-reviewed publications and applied research
• Contribute to translational work that connects research, practice, and policy

Support Grant-Funded Work

• Collaborate on proposals for federal, state, and foundation funding
• Contribute to research-practice partnerships and sponsored projects

Collaborate and Build Partnerships

• Work alongside community organizations, public agencies, and system leaders
• Participate in cross-functional initiatives that advance Erikson’s strategic priorities

Who You Are

You are a scholar and emerging leader who is energized by the possibility of connecting research to real-world impact.

Required Qualifications

• Doctoral degree (Ph.D., Ed.D.) in early childhood education, education policy, child development, or a related field
• Demonstrated record of research and scholarly writing
• Strong interest in policy, systems change, or research-practice partnerships
• Commitment to equity and justice in early childhood systems

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with grant writing or externally funded research
• Teaching experience in higher education
• Experience working with community-based organizations or public agencies
• Ability to communicate research to diverse audiences

Position Details

• Start Date: August 15, 2026
• Schedule: Full-time, 10-month academic appointment
• Salary: $70,000 annually
• Location: Chicago, IL

Compensation & Benefits

Erikson Institute offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement savings plan
• Paid time off and institutional holidays

Why Join Erikson?

At Erikson, your work will matter—locally, nationally, and globally. You’ll be part of a collaborative community that is reimagining early childhood systems and working toward a future where every child and family is supported to thrive.

How to Apply

Please submit - in one PDF:

• Cover letter
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Writing sample (scholarly or policy-focused)
• Contact information for three references

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Erikson Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, marital status, age, disability, veteran status, family responsibilities, or any other classes protected by federal, state, or local laws. In addition, Erikson Institute provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act and applicable state and local laws (including during the application or hiring process).

To learn more, please visit our web site at www.erikson.edu