At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead impactful research projects to promote justice and equality in public law.
- Company: Join a leading legal charity dedicated to making the justice system accessible for all.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, 25 days leave, and a supportive environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and mentoring junior researchers in a dynamic team.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the justice system while collaborating with passionate experts.
- Qualifications: Deep understanding of public law and experience in impactful research required.
The predicted salary is between 45669 - 45669 £ per year.
About Public Law Project (PLP)
The Public Law Project (PLP) is a leading independent legal charity dedicated to protecting and promoting fundamental rights while ensuring those in positions of authority remain accountable. Our mission is to make the justice system accessible, fair, and effective for everyone, particularly those from disadvantaged or marginalised backgrounds. Through strategic litigation, policy advocacy, and high-quality research, we tackle systemic issues within public and administrative law. We believe that a strong and inclusive justice system is vital for a healthy democracy, and we work tirelessly to remove barriers that prevent individuals from accessing the legal remedies they deserve.
About the Opportunity
We are seeking a Senior Research Fellow to join our dynamic team of legal researchers and policy experts. In this role, you will play a pivotal part in shaping and delivering PLP’s research agenda, working closely with our Research Director and colleagues across the organisation. Your work will contribute directly to building a more inclusive administrative justice system—one that is adequately resourced and responsive to the needs of all. Beyond research, you will collaborate with casework, public affairs, communications, and fundraising teams to ensure our findings drive tangible legal and policy change. This is a full-time position, though part-time arrangements (minimum 28 hours per week) will be considered for the right candidate.
Key Responsibilities
As a Senior Research Fellow, your responsibilities will span research, policy development, and strategic collaboration. You will identify, design, and execute high-quality research projects that align with PLP’s mission, producing impactful reports, policy recommendations, and advocacy materials. You will lead policy engagement, contribute to public events, deliver training, and prepare media briefings. Collaboration is key—you will work with legal, policy, and civil society partners, as well as individuals with lived experience, to influence law and policy reform. Additional duties include managing grants, mentoring junior researchers, supporting strategic litigation, and representing PLP at conferences and public forums.
Eligibility Criteria
We are looking for a candidate with a deep understanding of public and administrative law, coupled with experience conducting impactful empirical research. You should have a proven track record in producing high-quality written outputs, developing policy recommendations, and engaging with diverse stakeholders. Experience in fundraising, grant management, and applying monitoring and evaluation frameworks will be highly valued. The ideal candidate will share PLP’s values, demonstrate cultural competence when working with marginalised communities, and have strong public speaking skills. Prior experience in NGOs, legal charities, or other civil society organisations is desirable. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
Working Conditions & Benefits
This role offers a competitive salary of £45,669 per annum, with an annual cost-of-living uplift and a 10% pension contribution after one year of service. We offer 25 days of annual leave (plus bank holidays), flexible working arrangements, and a supportive, family-friendly environment. While the role is based in Central London (EC1V), we support hybrid working in line with our policies. New hires are expected to attend the office 2-3 days per week for the first three months. We also value work-life balance and provide time-off-in-lieu for occasional evening commitments.
Application Process
To apply, complete the application form provided in this information pack and send it to hr@publiclawproject.org.uk. Applications will be assessed based on how well candidates meet the essential requirements outlined in the person specification. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to interviews scheduled for 8 and 9 September 2025, with final interviews (if necessary) on 18 September 2025. The selection process will include a practical skills test and a structured panel interview. Feedback is available upon request. The deadline for applications is Sunday, 24 August 2025, at 11:59 pm.
Senior Research Fellow at Public Law Project – Championing Justice and Equality in Tipton employer: Canon Sphere
The Public Law Project (PLP) is an exceptional employer that champions justice and equality, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment in Central London. With a commitment to employee growth, PLP provides opportunities for professional development through collaboration with diverse stakeholders and engagement in impactful research projects. The organisation values work-life balance, offering flexible working arrangements, generous leave, and a family-friendly culture, making it an ideal place for those passionate about making a difference in the legal landscape.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Research Fellow at Public Law Project – Championing Justice and Equality in Tipton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the legal field, especially those connected to public law. Attend events, join discussions, and don’t be shy about sharing your passion for justice and equality.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your research chops! Prepare a portfolio of your best work that highlights your ability to tackle complex issues in public and administrative law. This will give you an edge when discussing your fit for the Senior Research Fellow role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your public speaking skills! You’ll need to engage with diverse stakeholders and present your findings confidently. Consider joining a local speaking group or even rehearsing with friends to nail your delivery.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in our mission at the Public Law Project.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Fellow at Public Law Project – Championing Justice and Equality in Tipton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff:Make sure you really understand public and administrative law. We want to see your passion for justice and equality shine through in your application. Highlight any relevant experience that shows you can tackle systemic issues.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! We love it when candidates tailor their responses to our mission. Show us how your skills and experiences align with PLP’s goals, especially in research and policy development.
Showcase Your Writing Skills:Since this role involves producing high-quality written outputs, make sure your application reflects your writing prowess. Use clear, concise language and structure your thoughts well. We want to see your ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. Follow the instructions carefully and ensure you submit all required documents before the deadline. We’re excited to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Canon Sphere
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of public and administrative law, as well as the mission of the Public Law Project. Brush up on recent cases and issues that relate to justice and equality, so you can speak confidently about how your research can contribute to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
Prepare to discuss your previous research projects in detail. Highlight how your work has led to tangible policy changes or influenced legal practices. Be ready to explain your methodology and how it aligns with PLP’s focus on impactful empirical research.
✨Engage with Their Values
Demonstrate your commitment to social justice and working with marginalised communities. Share examples from your past experiences where you've engaged with diverse stakeholders or contributed to inclusive practices. This will show that you resonate with PLP's core values.
✨Practice Your Public Speaking
Since the role involves delivering training and engaging in public events, practice articulating your ideas clearly and confidently. Consider doing mock interviews or presentations to get comfortable speaking about complex legal topics in an accessible way.
