Work With Us: Volunteer Research Assistants

PLP’s research team in made up of Research Fellows, who focus on specific projects and are led by the Research Director. To support the work of the research team, PLP has a programme for unpaid Research Assistants. This scheme provides the opportunity for Research Assistants to develop their research skills in a fast-paced environment.

Every Research Assistant post is determined by the circumstances of the project and the applicant, e.g. hours, length of overall commitment etc. will vary. Remote working is allowed and, in some instances, may be expected.

Research Assistants will be under the management of PLP’s Research Director, Dr Joe Tomlinson and will work with other researchers at PLP, as well as the casework team and other members of staff.

We expect all Research Assistants to share PLP’s core values and to work to the high standards expected of PLP research. At the same time, PLP will ensure Research Assistants are introduced to the work of PLP, given appropriate credit for all work, and carefully supervised.

Core tasks for Research Assistants will include:

  • Assisting in the coordination and organisation of research activities;
  • Contributing to the production of high quality research in their areas including, where appropriate, assisting with desk-based research, literature reviews, data analysis, drafting of proposals and submissions, report writing and drafting of articles, social media content etc.;
  • Assisting in the management and co-ordination of events;
  • Attending meetings with external groups or partners, including government, legal profession and NGOs; and
  • Working as part of a team with other researchers.

Person Specification

Knowledge:

  • Well-rounded knowledge of UK public law or relevant project subject-matter.

Education and experience:

  • An LLM in law or related discipline, or equivalent experience (those with experience of social science methods are particularly welcome);
  • Exceptional candidates with a first degree or a related subject will also be considered, particularly if they have further experience;
  • Some prior experience of a research project, in a practical or academic context, would be of benefit; and
  • Candidates need not be lawyers but must have suitable transferable research skills.

Research and drafting skills:

  • Ability to analyse complex and detailed materials and draw conclusions in a clear and precise manner.
  • Proficient in conducting research through electronic means and resources.

Language skills:

  • Very high level of proficiency in English.

Other skills:

  • Good administrative, IT, and organisational skills;
  • Collaborative, collegial, and articulate team member.

How to apply

We recruit Research Assistants for specific projects a rolling basis. Please submit the below form to hr@dev.publiclawproject.org.uk in order register your interest.

Volunteer Research Assistant Application Form