The Albert Hirschman Centre on Democracy and the International Law Department are pleased to advertise a research assistantship position, open to postgraduate students (both Master students and doctoral students) linked to the research project led by Professors Andrew Clapham and Neus Torbisco-Casals on “Diversity on the International Bench:  Building Legitimacy for International Courts and Tribunals”.

The project is funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNF) and aims at investigating rising concerns about the legitimacy of international courts and tribunals from a gender and diversity perspective. The research questions are divided into three interwoven pillars, which are partly theoretical partly empirical. The first pillar takes a theoretical approach and seeks to develop a diversity-sensitive account of the legitimacy, impartiality and accountability of international courts. Drawing on scholarship in law, constitutional theory and political philosophy on courts, representation and diversity in the domestic realm, we aim at elaborating a framework for conceiving legitimacy in international adjudication that corresponds with the particular circumstances of international politics and law.

The appointed research assistant will work closely with the principal investigators. She or he is expected to assist them in carrying out the research agenda and contribute to the research project, especially to develop the first pillar of their investigation and assisting in the organization of research activities related to the project. Specific tasks include conducting literature searchers and reviews, collecting data, prepare materials for review, manage and respond to project-related emails, as well as assist and attend the organization of workshops and a lecture series on gender and international courts.

Candidate's profile

• MA in Law or Politics with specific interests in international law and international courts.

• Demonstrated ability to carry out research and be able to work in cooperation with others

• Highly organized and capable of working independently

• Previous research experience an asset.

• Excellent written and oral communication in English

The position is for 10 hours per week from 1 March to 31 December 2020. The remuneration follows the guidelines of the Swiss National Science Foundation.

Application procedure

We look forward to receiving your application, which should include:

• a CV,

• a letter of motivation, and

• a writing sample (MA thesis, research paper, or published piece).

Please send inquiries and applications to:  neus.torbisco@graduateinstitute.ch. Please cc all messages to thanh.mai@graduateinstitute.ch.

The deadline for applications is 21 February 2020.