Staff Attorney
The Brooks McCormick Jr. Animal Law and Policy Program (ALPP) at Harvard Law School is seeking a Staff Attorney to lead the production of the Animal Law Digest: US Edition and initiate a new aquaculture project. This role involves conducting legal and policy research, overseeing the publication of the Animal Law Digest, and developing a new aquaculture publication to enhance its utility. The Staff Attorney will collaborate closely with the Executive Director, Faculty Director, Fellows, student Research Assistants, and various stakeholders to analyze and improve the treatment of animals through the legal system.
Key responsibilities include overseeing the production of the Animal Law Digest, contributing to research and drafting, tracking and analyzing federal and state legislation, regulation, and litigation developments in animal law and policy, and creating partnerships with academic institutions, think tanks, and NGOs. The Staff Attorney will also collaborate with other Harvard initiatives, generate and sustain a portfolio of research, writing, and public engagement activities on legal issues at the intersection of animal, agricultural, food, environmental law and policy, and rights of nature, advise on and coordinate the research activities of research assistants and research fellows, develop and manage ALPP resources, and contribute to the development of proposals for new projects.
Candidates should possess a JD degree, admission to a state bar, and at least three years of relevant post-graduate professional experience. Superior research, writing, editing, and proofreading skills are essential, along with the ability to distill complex information into succinct summaries and meet strict publication deadlines. Experience in supervising and mentoring junior attorneys and researchers is desirable, as is a high level of commitment to improving the treatment of animals through the legal system. Extensive familiarity with a wide range of animal-related federal and state statutes, including environmental and criminal statutes, and knowledge of case law and civil procedure are required. A collaborative, team-oriented approach with experience managing projects is also important.
This is a full-time, hybrid position with an initial one-year appointment, subject to renewal based on department needs and funding. Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Hybrid arrangements will be considered, subject to an initial in-person minimum period of six weeks in Cambridge.
Harvard Law School offers a vibrant community that combines excellence in legal education and scholarship with a deep commitment to justice. The environment values individual contributions and encourages growth, inspiration, and meaningful impact. Joining the ALPP provides an opportunity to work on impactful projects that aim to improve the treatment of animals through the legal system.