Research Officer (Climate Science and Law)

Research Officer (Climate Science and Law)

Full-Time 43277 - 51714 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Conduct research on climate litigation and its impact on law and society.
  • Company: Join the prestigious Grantham Research Institute at LSE, a leader in climate change research.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, hybrid working, and excellent training opportunities.
  • Other info: Exciting opportunity for early-career researchers in a dynamic and impactful environment.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in climate science and law while advancing your career.
  • Qualifications: PhD in relevant fields and experience with qualitative research methods.

The predicted salary is between 43277 - 51714 £ per year.

LSE is committed to building a diverse, equitable and truly inclusive university. The Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment is a world‑leading centre for the study of the economics and social sciences of climate change and other global environmental problems, based at the London School of Economics and Political Science. The Institute’s work has been recognised through the award of the Queen’s Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education 2020‑22.

We are seeking a motivated and interdisciplinary Research Officer to join the Grantham Research Institute’s research programme examining the role of scientific evidence in climate litigation. As climate‑related court cases increasingly influence government and corporate responses to climate change, this project will explore how courts interpret, apply and challenge scientific evidence in legal proceedings, and how this shapes legal and societal outcomes.

The successful candidate will undertake detailed qualitative analysis of climate cases, contribute to high‑quality academic publications, engage with research partners and stakeholders, and help advance understanding of the relationship between climate science and the law. This is an exciting opportunity for an early‑career researcher with expertise in climate change, law, policy or related disciplines to contribute to a growing and internationally significant field of research.

Candidates Should Have:

  • PhD (completed or near completion) in law, socio‑legal studies, environmental social science, political science, science and technology studies, human geography, climate science, or a closely related field.
  • Knowledge of climate litigation and the use of scientific evidence in legal proceedings.
  • Experience of qualitative research methods, including case and document analysis.
  • Experience of writing research outputs such as academic papers, policy briefs, or research reports.
  • Experience with quantitative research and analysis or similar.

We offer an occupational pension scheme, generous annual leave, hybrid working and excellent training and development opportunities. The closing date for receipt of applications is 8 July 2026 (23.59 UK time). Regrettably, we are unable to accept any late applications.

Research Officer (Climate Science and Law) employer: The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

LSE is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment at the forefront of climate research. With competitive salaries, generous annual leave, and robust training opportunities, employees are empowered to grow and contribute meaningfully to global environmental challenges. The Grantham Research Institute not only fosters interdisciplinary collaboration but also provides a unique platform for early-career researchers to engage with influential stakeholders in the field of climate science and law.

The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

Contact Details:

The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Research Officer (Climate Science and Law)

Get Involved in Local Environmental Initiatives

Dive into your local environmental scenes, like community clean-up projects or eco-focused events. Not only will you meet like-minded people, but it's a surefire way to showcase your passion and skills in environmental engineering tech.

Join Industry-Specific Organisations

Check out organisations like the Institution of Environmental Engineers for networking opportunities and resources. They often host events and seminars that can help us connect with key players in the industry, including potential employers like The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE).

Show Off Your Projects and Passion

Create a portfolio that highlights any relevant projects, whether it's coursework, internships, or personal initiatives. Share this online, perhaps even on platforms like GitHub or your own website, to grab the attention of hiring managers looking for talent like us.

Utilise Environmental Job Boards

Take advantage of niche job boards dedicated to environmental careers. Sites like Green Jobs, Environmental Career and EcoJobs often feature openings from companies like The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) and can help us land that full-time gig.

We think you need these skills to ace Research Officer (Climate Science and Law)

Qualitative Research Methods
Case Analysis
Document Analysis
Climate Litigation Knowledge
Scientific Evidence Application
Academic Writing
Policy Brief Writing

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for a role in environmental engineering tech, make sure to highlight your technical skills like CAD software proficiency, data analysis, or modelling techniques. These are essential for the job and should stand out in your CV and cover letter, showing how you can contribute to projects at The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE).

Demonstrate Your Passion for Sustainability:In this field, showcasing your passion for sustainability and environmental protection can set you apart. Include any relevant projects, volunteer experience, or courses that underline your commitment to these causes. The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) will appreciate candidates who genuinely care about making a difference.

Tailor Your Application to the Role:Don't just send a generic CV and cover letter. Make sure to tailor your application to the specific role of Research Officer (Climate Science and Law) at The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). Highlight experiences that align directly with the job description and give concrete examples of your work to demonstrate that you’re the right fit for a full-time position.

Include Relevant Certifications:If you have certifications related to environmental engineering or technology, like LEED Accreditation or any relevant software certifications, make sure to mention them. These qualifications can boost your application and show that you’re serious about your professional development in this competitive field.

How to prepare for a job interview at The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

Brush Up on Environmental Regulations

Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest environmental regulations and standards. In an environmental engineering tech role at The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), you might be asked specific questions about compliance measures, so understanding these will definitely give you an edge.

Showcase Your Technical Skills

Prepare to demonstrate your proficiency with relevant tools and software, such as AutoCAD or GIS. You might be given a practical problem to solve during the interview, so it’s a great idea to brush up on these skills and perhaps even bring a portfolio of your projects to showcase your technical prowess.

Highlight Your Passion for Sustainability

In a full-time role, employers are looking for commitment and enthusiasm. Share your experiences, studies, or projects that reflect your passion for environmental sustainability. This will show The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) that you're not just qualified but genuinely invested in the field.

Prepare for Behavioural Questions

Be ready for behavioural questions that assess how you handle teamwork, conflict, and project management. Think of examples from your studies or practical experiences where you tackled challenges effectively, showcasing both your technical and interpersonal skills.