Research Associate in International Space Law

University of Leicester; Leicester; On-site; GBP 37,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Leicester invites applications for a Research Associate in International Space Law to join the Leverhulme Centre for Humanity and Space (LCHS) at Space Park Leicester. The role focuses on the responsibility of private actors under international law for activities in outer space and related topics.

You will develop and deliver a research project, collect and analyse data, and disseminate findings through academic outputs.

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent research experience in public international law with familiarity in space law.
• Strong research record with publications or conference presentations.
• Fluent or near-fluent English for research and admin activities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team and manage priorities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver a research project in international space law.
• Collect, analyse, and interpret data to support research aims.
• Develop theoretical or empirical approaches and disseminate findings through outputs.
• Engage with the Centre and external stakeholders, including conferences and seminars.
• Collaborate with colleagues and build networks within Space Park Leicester and beyond.
• Contribute to the wider research community and training opportunities.

Skills

Public international law

International space law

Research productivity

Written and spoken English

Independent & collaborative work

IT proficiency

Education

PhD

Equivalent research experience

Job description

Vacancy terms:

Full time or job share, fixed term contract from 01 February 2027 to 31 January 2030

About the role

We are seeking a Research Associate in International Space Law to join the Leverhulme Centre for Humanity and Space (LCHS), based at Space Park Leicester. The Centre brings together interdisciplinary research across the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences to develop new insights into humanity’s relationship with space, with researchers working alongside physical scientists, space companies, businesses and governmental bodies. You will undertake a research project in international space law, with particular interest in the responsibility of private actors under international law for activities in outer space. Potential areas of investigation include environmental protection, sustainable space exploration, space resource utilisation, property rights and related international litigation. This complements the University’s wider international space law research, which examines the legal frameworks governing space activities by states and private entities.

You will take responsibility for developing and delivering your research, including collecting and analysing data, developing theoretical approaches or empirical analysis, and disseminating findings through appropriate academic and public outputs. Working both independently and collaboratively, you will contribute to the intellectual life of LCHS, build networks and collaborations, engage with external stakeholders and participate in conferences, workshops, seminars and Centre activities. You will also have access to mentorship, professional development opportunities and support for research and impact projects. Space Park Leicester provides a particularly collaborative setting for this work, connecting academia, research, innovation and the wider space sector.

About you

You will have a PhD, or equivalent research experience, with a background in public international law, together with experience and knowledge of research in international space law. You will be able to demonstrate research productivity appropriate to your career stage, for example through peer-reviewed publications or conference presentations, and an interest in contributing as part of a research team. The opportunity is particularly suited to an early career researcher seeking to develop their own research profile within an interdisciplinary environment.

You will bring excellent written and verbal communication skills, strong IT competency and fluent or near-fluent proficiency in English sufficient for research and administrative activities. You will be able to work effectively both independently and collaboratively, plan and deliver a programme of research, manage competing priorities and contribute positively to relationships with colleagues, collaborators and external stakeholders. You should also be willing to undertake relevant training and take an active role in the wider research community of the Centre.

£40,704 per annum, pro-rata if part-times: Grade 7