About Public Law Project (PLP)
The Public Law Project (PLP) is a leading independent legal charity dedicated to protecting and promoting fundamental rights while ensuring those in positions of authority remain accountable. Our mission is to make the justice system accessible, fair, and effective for everyone, particularly those from disadvantaged or marginalised backgrounds. Through strategic litigation, policy advocacy, and high-quality research, we tackle systemic issues within public and administrative law. We believe that a strong and inclusive justice system is vital for a healthy democracy, and we work tirelessly to remove barriers that prevent individuals from accessing the legal remedies they deserve.
About the Opportunity
We are seeking a Senior Research Fellow to join our dynamic team of legal researchers and policy experts. In this role, you will play a pivotal part in shaping and delivering PLP’s research agenda, working closely with our Research Director and colleagues across the organisation. Your work will contribute directly to building a more inclusive administrative justice system—one that is adequately resourced and responsive to the needs of all. Beyond research, you will collaborate with casework, public affairs, communications, and fundraising teams to ensure our findings drive tangible legal and policy change. This is a full-time position, though part-time arrangements (minimum 28 hours per week) will be considered for the right candidate.
Key Responsibilities
As a Senior Research Fellow, your responsibilities will span research, policy development, and strategic collaboration. You will identify, design, and execute high-quality research projects that align with PLP’s mission, producing impactful reports, policy recommendations, and advocacy materials. You will lead policy engagement, contribute to public events, deliver training, and prepare media briefings. Collaboration is key—you will work with legal, policy, and civil society partners, as well as individuals with lived experience, to influence law and policy reform. Additional duties include managing grants, mentoring junior researchers, supporting strategic litigation, and representing PLP at conferences and public forums.
Eligibility Criteria
We are looking for a candidate with a deep understanding of public and administrative law, coupled with experience conducting impactful empirical research. You should have a proven track record in producing high-quality written outputs, developing policy recommendations, and engaging with diverse stakeholders. Experience in fundraising, grant management, and applying monitoring and evaluation frameworks will be highly valued. The ideal candidate will share PLP’s values, demonstrate cultural competence when working with marginalised communities, and have strong public speaking skills. Prior experience in NGOs, legal charities, or other civil society organisations is desirable. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
Working Conditions & Benefits
This role offers a competitive salary of £45,669 per annum, with an annual cost-of-living uplift and a 10% pension contribution after one year of service. We offer 25 days of annual leave (plus bank holidays), flexible working arrangements, and a supportive, family-friendly environment. While the role is based in Central London (EC1V), we support hybrid working in line with our policies. New hires are expected to attend the office 2-3 days per week for the first three months. We also value work-life balance and provide time-off-in-lieu for occasional evening commitments.
Application Process
To apply, complete the application form provided in this information pack and send it to hr@publiclawproject.org.uk. Applications will be assessed based on how well candidates meet the essential requirements outlined in the person specification. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to interviews scheduled for 8 and 9 September 2025, with final interviews (if necessary) on 18 September 2025. The selection process will include a practical skills test and a structured panel interview. Feedback is available upon request. The deadline for applications is Sunday, 24 August 2025, at 11:59 pm.
