The British Institute of International and Comparative Law
London, United Kingdom
The British Institute of International and Comparative Law is the foremost independent research and discussion body in the United Kingdom and one of the leading such bodies in the world.
Comparative law is one of the core areas of the Institute's activities. In line with its increasing work in this area, the Institute is seeking to appoint a part-time Research Fellow in Comparative Law for a fixed term of 12 months (with the possibility of renewal).
The Research Fellow will be required to undertake high-quality research on comparative law topics; assist with the organisation of conferences and seminars in the sphere of comparative law; and develop new research projects for the Institute. Particular experience in the sphere of European private law is desirable, specifically tort law and product liability. However, applicants with broad comparative law experience will be considered, as the Institute's work in this area is wide-ranging, including topics such as public procurement and issues of comparative civil procedure.
The person appointed will work closely on comparative law issues with Dr. Duncan Fairgrieve, Senior Research Fellow in Comparative Law. The post will enable the successful applicant to work directly with a broad network of scholars, practitioners, judges, government officials, international institutions and others working in this field.
The Research Fellow will carry out the following tasks in consultation with the Senior Research Fellow in Comparative Law:
- Undertake and publish high quality research on comparative law;
- Assist in the organisation of events, such as workshops and conferences;
- Develop new research projects, including seeking funding from funding bodies;
- Engage with practitioners and others interested in comparative law;
- Maintain and update online resources, including a database; and
- Assist in a collegial way with the outreach and administrative activities relating to comparative law projects.
It is expected that the successful applicant will demonstrate, and provide evidence of, the following:
- A record of producing high quality legal research in relevant areas of the law, with a publication record in the field being an advantage;
- An ability to co-ordinate research activity in this area, to work under limited supervision, and to interact appropriately with practitioners and others working in the field;
- An ability to organise and deal efficiently with administrative matters;
- An ability and willingness to work collaboratively and collegially with colleagues;
- Expertise in a relevant foreign language would be an advantage;
- Some experience in working with databases would also be desirable.
The closing date for applications is Monday 22 October 2012. Interviews for shortlisted candidates are likely to take place in early November 2012.
All applicants should send the following details, preferably by email to jobs@biicl.org:
- A full curriculum vitae;
- The names and addresses of three referees, at least two of whom we can contact in the event of your being short-listed for the post;
- A covering letter setting out your reasons for applying and how you consider that you meet the above criteria for this post;
- Informal enquiries may be addressed to the Senior Research Fellow in Comparative Law, Dr Duncan Fairgrieve, at d.fairgrieve@biicl.org.
We regret that we are unable to acknowledge receipt of applications personally, as we are a charitable organization with limited funds. If you do not hear from us regarding interviews within four weeks of the closing date, your application has been unsuccessful.
