An IPA is an assignment made possible through the Intergovernmental Personnel Act. it allows a university faculty member to participate in an exchange style program in a federal agency to lend their scholarly expertise to the government for a period of time, while also maintaining university employment.

IPAs allow faculty the opportunity to experience federal government life and contribute to the nation without having to relinquish their university position. IPA’s help faculty build recognition for their expertise and enhance the presence of Purdue University in the nation’s Capitol, while maintaining university employment and benefits.

Since 2014, 55 IPA awards have been given to 34 different faculty. These assignments vary widely, including assignments with DARPA, NASA, the U.S. State Department, the U.S. Military Academy, Department of Veterans Affairs, and more.

Yes. An IPA is temporary and allows you to return to your university position once completed. Your employment and benefits will be uninterrupted.

IPA contractual agreements are managed through Sponsored Programs Services. Their staff can provide detailed assistance.

In addition, the National Science Foundation provides answers to some of the broader questions you may have about what an Intergovernmental Personnel Act (IPA) Assignment entails. Learn more here.

IPAs present a unique opportunity for awareness and growth of individual faculty expertise while fostering relationships with potential partners for the academic unit.

Below is a recordinging of the IPA Informational Session for Deans & Department Heads that took place at Purdue on Oct. 29th, 2024:

Purdue’s support of IPAs doesn’t stop at faculty member participation. Institutional alternatives and support are available for instructional needs to minimize the impact of a faculty member on an IPA assignment.

One major benefit of faculty members participating in an IPA assignment is building federal agency partnerships and cultivating relationships. Faculty experts can provide testimonials regarding their experience and serve on advisory boards, and past IPAs can become advocates and connections for future IPAs.