Research Specialist

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks that include numerous retail and restaurant discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates for performing arts events.

The University of North Carolina, School of Law aspires to be a great public law school. Toward this end, it pursues a fourfold mission: to prepare outstanding lawyers and leaders for the bar, the bench, all public and private law settings, and public service; to make nationally and internationally significant legal and policy contributions through an ambitious agenda of research and scholarship;

to instill lifelong ethical values, dedication to the cause of justice and a lasting commitment to pro bono and public service; and, to serve the legal profession, the people and institutions of North Carolina, the nation and the world.

This posting has an anticipated start date of no later than March 14, 2026. The Postgraduate Legal Fellow (Fellow) will provide legal support to faculty and the UNC Law legal clinics. The Fellow will perform legal work to support the clinics, conduct research, draft and update legal publications, and/or collaborate with faculty and staff on pro bono and community‑focused initiatives. This position offers recent law graduates the chance to develop their legal skills while engaging in meaningful work within an academic setting.

It is anticipated that the Fellow will work full‑time for one year, with a required one‑month break within the one year.

Bachelor’s degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment; or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

• Experience with legal research and legal drafting
• Knowledge of legal systems and processes
• Course work in law
• Professional experience in law
• Attention to detail with organizational skills

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at  or send an email to employment

Please note:

The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

• Required Documents: Curriculum Vitae / Resume
• Optional Documents

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

• * Please select the response below that best describes your experience/education for the Research Specialist position.
  • Bachelor's, Master's or Doctoral degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment.
  • Associate's degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment and 2 years related experience.
  • Combination of related post‑high school education and experience to equal at least 4 years of experience in a closely related field. (ex: 1 year towards a related degree and 3 years of related experience).
  • High School diploma/GED and at least 4 years of related experience.
  • Did not complete high school but have a combination of high school education and experience to equal at least 8 years (ex. 3 years of high school and 5 years of experience).
  • None of the above.