Jonathan Ruff, PhD

Jonathan Ruff is a policy process scholar and educator with experience in policy analysis, public administration, and political science.

His academic research focuses on policy process scholarship and the study of policy narratives.

Driven by a commitment to uncovering hard-to-reach information, Jon has developed a strong skill set in research design and project management.

Jon currently serves as an Assistant Professor of Political Science in South Dakota State University’s School of American and Global Studies.

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Academic CV

Education

Doctor of Philosophy – Public Policy

Science and Technology Policy

Oregon State University | Corvallis, OR | 2023

Dissertation: A Narrative Policy Framework analysis of US space-defense policy and the operationalization of plot.

Master’s of Public Administration

MPA Outstanding Student Award

Montana State University | Bozeman, MT | 2017

Thesis: Commercial Space Available: A review of special interest group influence on commercial space policy.

Bachelor’s of Science

Psychology

Colorado State University | Fort Collins, CO | 2013

Awards and Achievements

  • Public Service Fellowship, Portland State University – Hatfield School of Government (2022-2023)
  • NASA Internship – NASA Headquarters, History Department (2021)
  • PhD Student Representative, OSU School of Public Policy (2020-2021) 
  • Graduate Instructor with tuition waivers (2018-2022)
  • MPA Outstanding Student Award (2017) – For excellence in academics and graduate mentorship.
  • Graduate Research Assistantship and tuition waivers (2017) – For professional experience
  • Graduate Teaching Assistantship and tuition waivers (2016) – For academic excellence.

Affiliations

  • Midwest Political Science Association
  • International Public Policy Association
  • Coalition of Graduate Employees [AFT 6069] (2018-2022)
  • Circle K International (2010-2013) – [Governor Rocky Mountain District (2011-2012)]
  • Arnold Air Society, USAF ROTC Det. 90 (2011-2012)