(Pre or Post-Doctoral) Researcher in International Law, Human Rights, and the Crime of Disappearances

Project Overview:

This position is part of the ERC-funded project DISACT (Disappearing Act:  Reconstructing the Crime of Disappearances in Times of Violence, 101086935), which examines the intricate relationship between international legal frameworks and the clandestine tactics used by state and non-state actors to avoid accountability for repressive actions, such as enforced disappearances. This role focuses on advancing theoretical perspectives within international law and human rights, with a special emphasis on understanding how these frameworks can drive covert forms of violence and accountability evasion. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Theory Development: Assist in developing a theoretical framework that explains the relationship between international law, human rights enforcement, and covert state and non-state activities.
• Literature Review and Analysis: Conduct comprehensive reviews of existing literature in international law, human rights, and case studies on disappearances, synthesizing insights to support theoretical advancements.
• Case Law Research: Identify and analyze relevant case law and judicial precedents that highlight the legal treatment of disappearances and related covert practices.
• Academic Writing: Contribute to the authorship of high-impact journal articles, with opportunities to co-author and publish in leading academic journals on international law and human rights. 

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. (or close to completion) in International Law, Human Rights Law, Political Science, or a closely related field.
• Strong background in international human rights law, with particular expertise in issues surrounding disappearances and accountability measures.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting independent research
• Familiarity with case law research methodologies and ability to analyze legal precedents related to human rights abuses.
• Proven capacity for scholarly writing and experience publishing in academic journals.

Preferred Experience:

• Experience in developing theory within the realms of international law, human rights, or violence studies.
• Prior research on topics related to covert operations, plausible deniability, or accountability evasion strategies.
• Proficiency in legal research tools, literature databases, and qualitative research methods.
• Strong collaboration skills, with a willingness to work in an interdisciplinary research team.

Compensation:

• Gross monthly salary of €2,800 (for post-doctoral researchers). 

Application Requirements:

• Cover letter detailing your research interests and relevant experience with theory development, literature reviews, and case law research (max 2 pages).
• Curriculum vitae (CV).
• A writing sample that demonstrates your capacity to publish scholarly research in international law, international accountability and/or human rights. 

Application Instructions:

Interested candidates should submit all questions and application materials to the Ms Elpida Vasiliou vasileiou.elpida@ucy.ac.cy

Advert information