Staff Attorney - State Democracy Research Initiative (SDRI)

Overview

A legal research position is available with a State Democracy Research Initiative focused on state-level democracy, constitutions, and institutions. The role offers flexibility to tailor responsibilities based on the candidate's interests and experience, with pay commensurate with experience. Applications are encouraged from attorneys at various career stages.

Responsibilities

• Conduct advanced legal research on state democracy, state constitutions, and state institutions.
• Share research findings and legal analysis through scholarly publications, popular writing, media briefings, webinars, and continuing legal education presentations.
• Identify and contribute to democracy-related litigation nationwide, including drafting amicus curiae briefs representing scholarly perspectives.
• Supervise student research projects.
• Provide briefings and advice to diverse stakeholders on state-level democracy and public law issues.
• Organize and oversee conferences and events to enhance public understanding of relevant topics.
• Assist in developing grant applications and proposals to secure research funding.
• Review and edit research protocols for accuracy and consistency.
• Develop and implement complex research methodologies and procedures.
• Train individuals and groups on research protocols and techniques.
• Conduct literature reviews, prepare reports, co-author publications, and disseminate information.
• Collect and analyze complex research data, conduct experiments and interviews, and document results.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree required.
• Minimum of two years post-law school legal experience.
• Familiarity with and interest in state law, state government institutions, and/or state constitutions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience conducting high-level legal research and managing complex legal research projects.
• Strong appellate brief writing skills.
• Ability to write clearly for diverse audiences, including legal and non-legal readers.
• Ability to engage collaboratively and inclusively with a wide range of stakeholders.

Compensation and Benefits

• Minimum salary of $70,000, with pay commensurate with experience.

Location and Work Arrangement

• The position has a national focus and is open to candidates residing in any state.
• For candidates based locally, an in-person or hybrid work arrangement is envisioned.
• Fully remote work is possible for candidates outside the local area, subject to an approved remote work agreement.
• Remote employees must have their own high-speed internet and phone and will use a university-provided computer.

Application Process

Applicants must submit a cover letter and resume by the consideration date, Thursday, May 14, 2026, through the designated job application portal.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The employer is committed to diversity and inclusion and provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, veteran status, or other protected categories. Accommodations are available upon request for applicants with disabilities or pregnancy-related needs during the hiring process.

Additional Information

Employment may require a criminal background check and reference checks related to misconduct. Confidentiality requests by applicants will be honored except for the successful candidate's identity, which will be disclosed as required by law.

Safety and disciplinary policies, crime statistics, and housing fire safety information are available upon request.