Joel Rast

Joel Rast is a Professor of Political Science at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM), serving as Director of Urban Studies and the Center for Economic Development. His work focuses on urban development, political history, and environmental policy. Rast holds a Ph.D. from the University of Oregon and a B.A. from the University of California, Santa Cruz.

His research explores urban political development since WWII, including topics like housing policy, racial segregation, climate politics, and historical institutionalism. Notable works include The Origins of the Dual City (2019) and Remaking Chicago (1999). His articles frequently appear in journals like Urban Affairs Review and Social Science History.

Rast teaches courses on urban government, environmental politics, and research methods in urban studies. He has advised multiple projects on urban redevelopment and policy continuity. His grants include studies on climate change governance and economic development strategies.

He directs UWM’s Center for Economic Development, focusing on community-driven initiatives. Current projects examine green urbanism and equitable city planning.