Applying LBJ Knowledge to Complex Client Challenges
LBJ Master of Public Affairs and Master of Global Policy Studies students cap off their academic experience with a semester- or year-long policy research project (PRP). This project pairs teams of students with a client to address a complex policy issue in a real-world context.
Working in small teams under the supervision of an LBJ faculty member, students develop a proposal and research plan, manage client engagement, and produce a first-class deliverable.
Past PRP engagements have:
- Evaluated the viability of a statewide pensions program and offered policy recommendations to the Texas Pensions Review Board.
- Delivered a report to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence that assessed efforts by foreign states to influence and damage the integrity of U.S. elections.
- Collaborated with the Pacific Northwest Laboratory to build a set of policy recommendations for Residential Demand Response (RDR) to manage energy use.
- Created a strategy to grow the Dallas Workforce Scholars Program, an apprenticeship initiative in North Texas.
- Collaborated with Austin Energy to craft a policy framework for equitable DER (Distributed Energy Resources) technology adoption.
- Crafted a 5-year strategic plan to guide the deployment of the Austin Cultural Trust, a $2.4 million fund to support artists in Austin.
- Developed a toolkit for building community benefit agreements for the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods.
- Partnered with the Housing Authority of the City of Austin to examine the connection between housing and the social determinants of health.
What's Expected of Clients?
Possible projects can span an array of policy arenas: healthcare, social policy, energy & environment, national security, housing, economic development, public finance, global development, and more.
Selected clients will: (1) offer a substantial, impactful research, engagement, and policy opportunity; (2) support students by providing access to previous research, appropriate data, and stakeholder engagement throughout the year; (3) join client engagement and feedback sessions with students and faculty; and (4) attend a final PRP presentation open house.
LBJ explores how cities used UN conference to fight climate change through food policy
A Policy Research Project (PRP) led by Research Professor Raj Patel investigates how some cities' innovation and commitment are leading the way on food systems and climate change — and putting pressure on national governments.
More Information
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Steven Pedigo
Assistant Dean for Faculty of Practice and Policy Engagement, Director of the LBJ Urban Lab
How to Get Involved
If your organization is interested in serving as a client for a Policy Research Project, complete the form below that asks for details about your proposed project and outcomes.