The Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy (Vidhi) invites applications one position of ‘Senior Resident Fellow’ in its Climate and Ecosystems team, based at the New Delhi office.
About Vidhi
The Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy is an independent think tank that conducts legal research to assist the government in creating better laws. Vidhi is dedicated to producing high-quality legal research to inform public debate and contribute to improved governance. It collaborates with Ministries of the Government of India, State Governments, and other public institutions, providing research and drafting support at various stages of law-making. Vidhi also undertakes and freely disseminates independent research in critical areas of legal reform essential to India’s future.
About the Climate and Ecosystems Team
The Climate & Ecosystems team at Vidhi works to conserve species and ecosystems and ensure sustainable livelihoods by making environmental laws and policies effective, responsive, and relevant. The team engages in doctrinal and empirical research on key environmental challenges, particularly in the domains of forest, biodiversity, and natural resource laws. It collaborates with conservation NGOs, grassroots organizations, academic institutions, public representatives, and key stakeholders to drive legal and policy reforms.
Role Description
This is a full-time position based in Vidhi’s New Delhi office.
Responsibilities:
- Conduct high-quality legal and policy research on forests, biodiversity, wildlife, climate, and related ecosystems.
- Draft research reports, coordinate public consultations, and collect empirical information.
- Organize and participate in meetings and consultations with stakeholders and partner organizations.
- Prepare presentations, social media content, and other materials for disseminating research.
- Supervise ongoing projects and ensure research quality.
- Manage the team and communicate with funders and external stakeholders.
- Draft research proposals, oversee project timelines, and report to funders.
Eligibility Criteria
Essential Qualifications
- Undergraduate degree in law or a relevant field with at least 5 years of demonstrable work experience in environmental laws and policy research.
- Strong research, analytical, and writing skills.
- Excellent writing and editing skills for research reports and policy documents.
- Experience in managing teams, drafting research proposals, and coordinating with funders.
- Experience in organising and managing public events, including discussions, workshops, and roundtable meetings.
- Ability to multitask and deliver high-quality work within tight deadlines.
- Proficiency in office productivity tools (MS Excel, PowerPoint, Canva).
Desirable Qualifications:
- Knowledge of environmental laws and policies.
- Field experience in forest, wildlife, or related areas.
- Experience working with government officials, legislators, civil society organisations, or local communities.
- Publications in reputed journals or media outlets on relevant subjects.
- A postgraduate degree in a relevant field and experience in public speaking and moderating discussions.
Location and Remuneration:
- Full-time position based in New Delhi, with an initial term of one year (renewable based on performance and funding availability).
- Remuneration will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.
- Vidhi is an equal-opportunity employer and does not tolerate any form of discrimination.
Application Process
Interested candidates should apply through Vidhi’s online portal, submitting the following documents merged into a single PDF:
- Latest Curriculum Vitae (CV) (maximum two A4 pages).
- A brief statement of motivation (up to 500 words).
- A recent writing sample, preferably published.
- Names and contact details of two professional referees.
Deadline: Applications must be submitted by 2nd February 2025, 11:59 PM (Sunday).
For queries, email careers@vidhilegalpolicy.in with the subject line:
‘Vidhi Delhi – Application for SRF, Climate & Ecosystems’.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. They may be required to complete a short written assignment and attend an interview as part of the selection process.