About Roger Williams University:
Roger Williams University School of Law is a leader in legal education, a go-to source for state and regional legal expertise, and an integral part of legal culture and conversation. As the state’s only law school, RWU Law offers a rigorous yet supportive academic environment, a diverse community, the undivided attention of our state bench and bar, exceptional clinical and externship programs, a top faculty and a broad, accomplished and growing alumni base.
Job Description:
The Research Attorney works on grant-funded projects that the Marine Affairs Institute and Rhode Island Sea Grant Legal Program are conducting to support ocean and coastal law and policy in Rhode Island, throughout New England, and nationally. The Research Attorney is responsible for conducting legal and policy research, meeting with government officials and stakeholders, and creating reports, outreach materials, and other materials as needed to carry out the projects. This position in grant-funded and is non-renewable.
This position will have a strong focus on aquaculture law and policy. Candidates with experience in aquaculture law and policy are preferred; those with an interest in aquaculture will be considered.
Essential Functions / Characteristics
Conduct research on policy, laws, and regulations related to ocean and coastal law and policy.
Work with Sea Grant programs, state agencies, and local governments in New England.
Identify potential approaches to resolve challenges related to the management of coastal waters in New England.
Plan and conduct meetings related to research.
Draft, edit, and public materials explaining results of research, including reports, model legal language, outreach materials, and presentations.
Conduct research on policy, laws, and regulations related to projects.
Present research to interested audiences in New England and at national conferences as appropriate.
Additional Functions
Assist in oversight of student researchers on projects.
Travel throughout New England on a regular basis.
Requirements:
Juris Doctor Degree from an American Bar Association.
Membership in a state bar in the U.S.
Experience and interest in marine law and policy.
Strong law school academic record with relevant course work and/or work experience.
Ability to work well independently and with others.
Strong self-initiative.
Strong research and writing skills.
Strong interpersonal skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Educational background in science or related field.
Experience working with coastal community stakeholders, particularly in New England.
At the University’s discretion, the education and experience prerequisites may be excepted where the candidate can demonstrate, to the satisfaction of the University, an equivalent combination of education and experience specifically preparing the candidate for success in the position.
Additional Information:
This position will have a strong focus on aquaculture law and policy. Candidates with experience with aquaculture law and policy are preferred; those with an interest in aquaculture will be considered.
Roger Williams University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and committed to a diverse workforce. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable state and federal law. For information on our Non-discrimination policy, visit here.
RWU prohibits all forms of discrimination on the basis of sex in its education programs and activities and is required by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX) and its implementing regulations not to discriminate in such a manner. Complaints of Title IX sexual harassment should be reported to the Title IX Coordinator at the contact information listed below. Details regarding the formal complaint process can be found here: Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy and Procedures. All complaints of sexual harassment will be taken seriously and responded to promptly. TITLE IX COORDINATOR: Dr. Jen Stanley, 1 Old Ferry Road, Bristol, RI 02809 / Phone Number: (401) 254-3123 /Email Address: jstanley@rwu.edu
Salaries for new hires at Roger Williams University usually fall between the minimum and midpoint of the salary range.
$52,686 – $55,000
Application Instructions:
Please attach a resume, cover letter, and list of three (3) professional references. In your cover letter/letter of interest, in addition to listing how your qualifications meet the requirements of the position, please include information about how you would be able to contribute to RWU’s diversity, inclusivity, and equity goals.
Department: Marine Affairs, SOL
