Senior Research Fellow: Justice Policy & Impact

About PLP

The Public Law Project (PLP) is dedicated to safeguarding fundamental rights and ensuring that those in power are held accountable. We focus on making the justice system accessible to everyone, regardless of background or circumstance. Through strategic research, policy development, legal interventions, and partnerships, we work to strengthen administrative law and protect the rights of individuals and communities. Our team operates collaboratively across various specialisms, uniting expertise in law, policy, advocacy, and research to drive meaningful change.

PLP is known for its evidence-based approach, strategic influence, and strong commitment to fairness, transparency, and inclusivity.

We are seeking an experienced Senior Research Fellow to play a leading role in shaping and delivering PLP’s research agenda. Working closely with our Research Director and colleagues across the organisation, you will design and execute high-quality research projects aimed at improving access to justice and strengthening the administrative justice system. This role blends academic rigor with real-world impact, as your research will inform policy, influence decision-makers, and support litigation strategies.

The position offers a chance to engage with external stakeholders, including those with lived experience, and to help develop a more equitable and effective system of justice.

This is a permanent position based in Central London (EC1V), with flexibility for home working under PLP’s policies. The role can be full-time or part-time (minimum 4 days/28 hours per week). The salary is £45,669 per annum, with eligibility for a cost-of-living uplift. We offer a generous 10% pension after one year, 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays), and flexible working arrangements from day one.

The role reports directly to the Research Director and offers a six-month probation period. We value work-life balance and are committed to supporting employees with care responsibilities while maintaining high professional standards.

As Senior Research Fellow, you will:

• Identify and design impactful research projects aligned with PLP’s strategic priorities.

• Lead and deliver empirical research, producing high-quality publications for diverse audiences.

• Drive policy development and advocacy in collaboration with our Public Affairs team.

• Represent PLP externally at events, conferences, and in the media.

• Deliver training and seminars to internal teams and external partners.

• Manage grants and funding applications for research projects.

• Mentor and line-manage research staff or interns.

• Collaborate across departments to support casework, events, and policy initiatives.

• Build partnerships with civil society organisations and academic institutions.

• Promote PLP’s values, fostering a collegial and inclusive work environment.

Applicants must have a strong understanding of public and administrative law, particularly issues related to access to justice. Proven experience in designing and delivering empirical research, producing written outputs, and translating findings into policy recommendations is essential. You should have experience working with external partners, including civil society organisations, and an ability to engage with people with lived experience. Additional requirements include grant management skills, experience with monitoring and evaluation frameworks, public speaking, and a commitment to PLP’s mission.

Prior work in NGOs, legal charities, or civil society sectors is highly desirable.

To apply , please complete the application form provided in the recruitment pack and email it to . Applications will be assessed using a scoring system based on essential role requirements. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interviews on Monday 8 or Tuesday 9 September 2025, with final interviews (if necessary) scheduled for Thursday 18 September 2025. The selection process may include a practical skills test and panel interview.

We encourage applicants requiring reasonable adjustments to notify us in advance to ensure a fair process. Final date to receive applications: Sunday, 24 August 2025 at 11:59 pm.