RESEARCHVisiting Students and Scholars
Since its founding in 1908, the School of Social Policy & Practice (SP2) has served as a temporary home for hundreds of Visiting Scholars from throughout the world. The tradition of welcoming scholars from abroad continues today and is reflected in the many international scholars who regard SP2 as their “research home” while in the United States.
Administrative and financial arrangements relating to Visiting Scholar appointments are highly individualized; in every case, they require a substantial level of self-financing. Proposals for Visiting Scholar appointments are submitted to the Dean for approval by the faculty host. Visiting scholars whose research aligns with the school’s interests will be considered and shared office space will be offered when available. The visiting scholar is encouraged to present their research to the SP2 community before returning home. Visiting Scholars may be appointed for a maximum of two academic semesters.
For our part, SP2 provides Visiting Scholars with an SP2 faculty sponsor, access to our world-class library and on-campus events, and introductions to other scholars at Penn who share similar or related research interests (if requested).
Opportunities also may exist for the development of ongoing collaborative research projects between Visiting Scholars and members of the School’s permanent faculty.
Visiting Students and Scholars
2020 – Present
| Name | Title | Local Affiliation | Academic Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yaacov Yablon | Visiting Scholar | Bar-Ilan University | Summer 2022 |
| Amyer (Huangjuan) Liu | Visiting PhD Student | Renmin University of China | 2019 - 2020 |
| Xi Chen | Visiting PhD Student | Renmin University of China | 2019 - 2020 |
News
Faculty & Research
02/20

How markets can help society adapt to climate change
When carefully designed and supported by thoughtful public policy, markets can play a meaningful role in helping communities effectively and efficiently manage the risks of climate change, according to a new article coauthored by Dr. R. Jisung Park.
News
Faculty & Research
02/16

Alice Xu receives Best Dissertation Award from American Political Science Association
Dr. Alice Xu, assistant professor at Penn’s School of Social Policy & Practice (SP2), has received the 2025 Mancur Olson Best Dissertation Award by the American Political Science Association (APSA).
News
Faculty & Research
01/28

Planning ahead in an age of longevity
Tamara J. Cadet of the School of Social Policy & Practice discusses strategies for preparing—financially and physically— for an extended lifespan.