Institute Director- Julian Samora Research Institute

The Julian Samora Research Institute (JSRI) of University Outreach and Engagement at Michigan State University is looking for its next visionary leader. The Julian Samora Research Institute (JSRI) is the premier Latino research institute in Michigan and the Midwest engaged in research with and for Latinx urban and rural communities, farmworkers and their families, farmers, and youth. The mission of JSRI is the generation, dissemination, and application of knowledge to serve the needs of Latino communities in Michigan, the Midwest, and across the nation, emphasizing research in health, education, and entrepreneurship.  

In the fall of 1988, the Hispanic Research Task Force at Michigan State proposed the creation of the institute to focus on Hispanic research. Inaugurated in November of 1989, the Institute was named after Dr. Julian Samora, a pioneer in the fields of Mexican American studies, Mexican American civil rights, and scholarship in the Midwest. Dr. Samora was a faculty member at Michigan State University from 1957-1959 before going to the University of Notre Dame. The Julian Samora Research Institute was the first major doctoral/research extensive university center named in honor of a Latina or Latino scholar (MSU Libraries and Oxford Encyclopedia). 

 JSRI was established to conduct interdisciplinary public policy research and outreach related to Hispanic issues and now focusing on Latinx issues, as well. It was the first policy institute in the Midwest to study the impact of industrial and agricultural change on Hispanics living there. The Julian Samora Research Institute will hire a director who will best support and advance the mission of JSRI, and whose research commitments align with the strategic plan of UOE. The JSRI Director reports to the Vice Provost for University Outreach and Engagement. 

Minimum Experience and Requirements 

• A Ph.D. in Agriculture, Education, Health Sciences, Humanities, Natural Resources, Social Sciences, Veterinary Medicine, Chicano and Latino Studies, or related fields.  A record of scholarly work as demonstrated in publications, presentations, or other related products.  Proven record of federal, state or privately funded research. 

• Excellent ability to communicate verbally and in writing in both English and Spanish is preferred.  Experience working with diverse Latino communities; demonstrated leadership in promoting and supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion.  

 Preferred Qualifications 

• Knowledge of and experience working with Latinx populations in Michigan or Midwestern areas of the United States.   A record of successful program management, employee supervision, and leadership. 

Required Application Materials 

-           Cover Letter 

-           Current Curriculum vitae 

- 1 page summary on your philosophy of current research trends and issues facing Latino communities and how possible strategies to address them. 

- the names and email addresses and phone numbers of 3 professional references.                           

Applications must be submitted electronically through “Careers at MSU” at the following link: careers.msu.edu 

 For more information, contact Manuel Chavez, chair of the committee, at chavezm1@msu.edu.  \

 Website: jsri.msu.edu