Rajeev Darolia: 2025-26 University Research Professor Q&A
Rajeev Darolia, Ph.D., the Wendell H. Ford Professor in the Martin School of Public Policy and Administration and professor of public policy and economics, has been honored as a 2025-26 University Research Professor.
Darolia’s research focuses on how public policy affects economic mobility and financial security, particularly related to postsecondary educational decisions and outcomes. Recently, Darolia has studied the efficiency of public investments in human capital — improved knowledge, skills and abilities — and the costs and benefits of a variety of education and workforce pathways.
Darolia’s work has had national impact. He previously served as chief economist and senior advisor at the U.S. Department of Education. Darolia is a visiting scholar at the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, a research fellow at the IZA Institute of Labor Economics, and a member of the board on higher education and workforce at the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine.
He also works with national and state organizations to augment public data infrastructure, availability and transparency.
Since joining UK in 2017, Darolia has served in a variety of roles: associate dean for research at The Graduate School, associate director of the Center for Poverty Research and director of graduate studies.
Darolia spoke with UKNow about his latest honor as a University Research Professor in this Q&A.
UKNow: What does it mean to you to be recognized as a University Research Professor?
Darolia: It is an honor to be recognized by my colleagues and to be included with such an esteemed set of current and prior honorees.
UKNow: How will the professorships program advance your research?
Darolia: With colleagues, I am working to build and grow our ability to provide evidence that can help address pressing public problems. The professorships program will help expand these efforts, enriching opportunities for affiliated researchers and students.
UKNow: What inspired your focus on this area of research?
Darolia: I believe it is critically important to generate evidence and analysis that helps us understand the costs and benefits of public policy decisions. Knowing what works in different settings is essential for designing effective programs.
UKNow: How does your research impact Kentucky?
Darolia: I aim to produce scholarship that helps organizations operate more efficiently and design systems that improve conditions in the state. Much of my research agenda is inspired through conversations with policymakers and practitioners, many of whom are in Kentucky and surrounding areas. By applying research findings to applied educational settings, we can work to advance skill and knowledge development and ultimately improve economic health and welfare.
About the University Research Professors
Each year, the University of Kentucky Board of Trustees approves a cohort of faculty as University Research Professors. The distinction recognizes excellence in work that addresses scientific, social, cultural and economic challenges in Kentucky and the world.
College leadership developed criteria for excellence within their area of expertise and then nominated faculty who excelled at these criteria. Each University Research Professor receives a one-year award of $10,000.
