Research Associate (AI Law, Sustainability and Public International Law)

Job Description

The Centre for International Law (CIL) was established in 2009 as a university-level research institute at National University of Singapore (NUS). CIL engages in both legal and multi-disciplinary research on a wide variety of international law issues. Its mission is to enable Singapore and the Asia-Pacific region to play a more significant role in the promotion and development of international law. CIL's vision is to become a regional intellectual hub and thought leader for research and teaching in international law. Further information about CIL is available at https://cil.nus.edu.sg/

CIL invites applications for a one-year Research Associate position. We seek an early career scholar specialising in public international law with a strong interest in the governance of artificial intelligence (AI) and sustainability to work as part of the AI and Technology Law programme led by Dr Jon Truby. This position is part of CIL's expanding research programme on AI law, climate and environmental sustainability, and digital governance within the international legal framework. The Research Associate will have the opportunity to advance their research profile in a dynamic and supportive environment at the intersection of AI, sustainability and public international law.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct high-quality research on the nexus between AI and digital technologies, international law and sustainability.
• Prepare and publish at least one substantial piece of scholarly work suitable for submission to a reputable journal during the appointment.
• Contribute to the development and delivery of CIL’s research agenda on AI, technology and sustainability, including conceptualising new projects and outputs.
• Assist in the preparation of project proposals related to AI governance, climate and sustainability in international law.
• Support the planning, development and organisation of seminars, workshops and conferences, and present research at academic seminars and similar fora.
• Monitor and analyse developments in international law related to AI, emerging technologies and sustainable development, and prepare briefings and research materials for CIL’s programmes.
• Support and expand CIL’s role in regional and global forums addressing legal frameworks for AI, digital technologies and sustainability.
• Contribute, where appropriate, to CIL’s broader research projects, events and initiatives.
• Reside in Singapore throughout the term of appointment, in accordance with NUS policies on residence and leave.

CIL provides its research staff with extensive professional development opportunities through NUS events, seminars, and training programmes. Staff members also have opportunities to participate in regional and international academic engagements, including conferences, workshops, and symposiums.

Qualifications

• An LLM, JD degree or equivalent experience, preferably with a focus on AI and/or sustainability or climate and environmental governance;
• Demonstrated scholarly interest in AI and technology law, together with a clear interest in sustainability or climate and environmental governance in international law;
• Proven strong research and writing capabilities, evidenced by publications, working papers or a high-quality dissertation;
• Strong analytical skills to navigate the intersections of AI, sustainability and international law, and to conduct both independent and collaborative research;
• High level of self-motivation and organisational skills, including the ability to manage research tasks, coordinate activities and consistently meet deadlines;
• Ability to collaborate effectively within a team, with excellent oral and written communication skills, and proficiency in relevant IT tools that facilitate research and collaboration.