Dane County Policy Analysis Opportunities Fall 2025
UniverCity Alliance and Department of Political Science seek two (2) students to conduct policy research for the Dane County Board of Supervisors about two (2) policy issues:
- Examine Local Government Approaches and Emerging Policy for Development of Large-Scale Data Centers: Research local government considerations for large-scale (hyper-scale) data centers, including but not limited to how hyper-scale data centers are defined, energy, water, and land use needs, impacts on adjacent properties, public safety issues, and utility implications. The final report and presentation for this project should compile information sources, comparisons, case studies, and emerging policy to help inform the county’s future policymaking on this issue.
- Identifying Local Government Best Practices, Programs, Initiatives, and Funding Mechanisms for Opioid Harm Reduction: Research evidence-based best practices and case studies of successful opioid harm reduction strategies implemented by local governments. The final report and presentation should provide a detailed inventory of existing efforts, programming, and supports for opioid harm reduction offered by Dane County, and recommend how the county can most effectively leverage Opioid Settlement Fund dollars to complement existing programs and provide needed services to those affected by the opioid epidemic to reduce harm.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Students should have at least junior standing to apply.
COMPENSATION: Students will receive a $1,500 stipend for their work or directed study credit if preferred.
COMMITMENT: Hours are flexible, and work can be done mostly remotely. We anticipate that this experience will take 5 – 10 hours per week and could be done over the course of 6 – 8 weeks. Students should plan to attend at least one public meeting of a Dane County Board committee to present their final report.
TO APPLY: Submit a resume and a cover letter to this link explaining related experience doing policy research and why your experience makes you the best fit for this opportunity.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Applications are due by 4 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 22, 2025.