At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead impactful research projects to improve access to justice and influence policy.
- Company: Join the Public Law Project, dedicated to safeguarding rights and promoting accountability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and a strong pension scheme.
- Other info: Permanent position with excellent career growth and a commitment to work-life balance.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the justice system while collaborating with diverse stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Strong understanding of public law and proven research experience required.
The predicted salary is between 45669 - 45669 £ per year.
About PLP
The Public Law Project (PLP) is dedicated to safeguarding fundamental rights and ensuring that those in power are held accountable. We focus on making the justice system accessible to everyone, regardless of background or circumstance. Through strategic research, policy development, legal interventions, and partnerships, we work to strengthen administrative law and protect the rights of individuals and communities. Our team operates collaboratively across various specialisms, uniting expertise in law, policy, advocacy, and research to drive meaningful change. PLP is known for its evidence-based approach, strategic influence, and strong commitment to fairness, transparency, and inclusivity.
About the Opportunity
We are seeking an experienced Senior Research Fellow to play a leading role in shaping and delivering PLP’s research agenda. Working closely with our Research Director and colleagues across the organisation, you will design and execute high-quality research projects aimed at improving access to justice and strengthening the administrative justice system. This role blends academic rigor with real-world impact, as your research will inform policy, influence decision-makers, and support litigation strategies. The position offers a chance to engage with external stakeholders, including those with lived experience, and to help develop a more equitable and effective system of justice.
General Role Details
This is a permanent position based in Central London (EC1V), with flexibility for home working under PLP’s policies. The role can be full-time or part-time (minimum 4 days/28 hours per week). The salary is £45,669 per annum, with eligibility for a cost-of-living uplift. We offer a generous 10% pension after one year, 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays), and flexible working arrangements from day one. The role reports directly to the Research Director and offers a six-month probation period. We value work-life balance and are committed to supporting employees with care responsibilities while maintaining high professional standards.
Roles and Responsibilities
- Identify and design impactful research projects aligned with PLP’s strategic priorities.
- Lead and deliver empirical research, producing high-quality publications for diverse audiences.
- Drive policy development and advocacy in collaboration with our Public Affairs team.
- Represent PLP externally at events, conferences, and in the media.
- Deliver training and seminars to internal teams and external partners.
- Manage grants and funding applications for research projects.
- Mentor and line-manage research staff or interns.
- Collaborate across departments to support casework, events, and policy initiatives.
- Build partnerships with civil society organisations and academic institutions.
- Promote PLP’s values, fostering a collegial and inclusive work environment.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must have a strong understanding of public and administrative law, particularly issues related to access to justice. Proven experience in designing and delivering empirical research, producing written outputs, and translating findings into policy recommendations is essential. You should have experience working with external partners, including civil society organisations, and an ability to engage with people with lived experience. Additional requirements include grant management skills, experience with monitoring and evaluation frameworks, public speaking, and a commitment to PLP’s mission. Prior work in NGOs, legal charities, or civil society sectors is highly desirable.
Application Process
To apply, please complete the application form provided in the recruitment pack and email it to hr@publiclawproject.org.uk. Applications will be assessed using a scoring system based on essential role requirements. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interviews on Monday 8 or Tuesday 9 September 2025, with final interviews (if necessary) scheduled for Thursday 18 September 2025. The selection process may include a practical skills test and panel interview. We encourage applicants requiring reasonable adjustments to notify us in advance to ensure a fair process. Application deadline: Sunday, 24 August 2025 at 11:59 pm.
Senior Research Fellow: Justice Policy & Impact in Tipton employer: Canon Sphere
The Public Law Project (PLP) is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. Based in Central London, PLP provides flexible working arrangements, generous leave, and a commitment to work-life balance, making it an ideal environment for those passionate about justice policy and impact. With opportunities to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to meaningful research, PLP empowers its team to drive real change in the justice system.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Research Fellow: Justice Policy & Impact in Tipton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in your field, especially those connected to PLP. Attend events, join discussions, and don’t be shy about sharing your passion for justice policy. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Prepare a portfolio of your research projects and publications that highlight your skills in public and administrative law. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your work speak for itself.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Before any interviews, do some mock sessions with friends or mentors. Focus on articulating how your experience aligns with PLP’s mission and values. Confidence is key, so get comfortable talking about your impact!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at PLP. Don’t forget to tailor your application to reflect your understanding of their work and your commitment to access to justice.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Fellow: Justice Policy & Impact in Tipton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff:Make sure you really understand the role and what PLP stands for. Dive into their mission and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you tailor your application to show that you're the perfect fit!
Showcase Your Research Skills:Since this role is all about research, highlight your past projects and how they made an impact. Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to design and deliver high-quality research that influences policy and drives change.
Be Clear and Concise:When filling out the application form, keep your answers clear and to the point. Avoid jargon and make sure your writing is easy to understand. This shows that you can communicate effectively, which is key in this role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at PLP.
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, especially around access to justice. Brush up on recent developments in the field and be ready to discuss how your research can impact policy and advocacy.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
Prepare to talk about your previous research projects in detail. Highlight how you've designed and delivered empirical research, and be ready to explain how your findings have influenced policy decisions or advocacy efforts.
✨Engage with Real-World Impact
Demonstrate your ability to connect with external stakeholders, including civil society organisations and individuals with lived experience. Share examples of how you've collaborated with others to drive meaningful change in the justice system.
✨Be Ready for Practical Scenarios
Since the selection process may include a practical skills test, think about potential scenarios you might face in the role. Prepare to discuss how you would approach grant management, mentoring staff, or delivering training sessions effectively.
