The National Law School of India University (NLSIU) invites applications for a full-time (contractual) role of a Research Associate, based at the NLSIU, Campus, Bengaluru), for a period of one year (extendable based on performance), for the Labour Justice Clinic.

About the Labour Justice Clinic

The Labour Justice Clinic at the National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bangalore, seeks to strengthen access to justice for workers, particularly those who are engaged in precarious work, and have lesser access to organised representation. Through sustained legal representation and support, and community outreach, the Clinic will enhance access to legal services for workers. The Clinic engages in litigation, and research in labour law, with special emphasis on informal workers and emerging forms of employment.

The Clinic aims to supplement the efforts of legal aid and legal representation for workers initially in Karnataka and gradually across India. The Clinic will adopt a multi-stakeholder approach to the field and collaborate with trade unions, worker collectives, employer associations, legal services authorities, and civil society organisations.

The Clinic also delivers elective clinic courses for credit at NLSIU.

About the Role

The Research Associate will be involved in critical research pertaining to implementation of labour welfare laws, court functioning, and other issues. The role will involve both desk-based and field research, including developing legal resources, conducting empirical studies, and supporting the Clinic’s research projects on labour rights in India. The Research Associate will regularly travel to labour addas, nakas, unions and different government offices for research and legal awareness activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to the Labour Justice Clinic’s research agenda and ongoing research projects.
• Collect and analyse data for research projects, including through RTI applications and other primary research methods.
• Assist in researching, drafting, and editing research outputs, including reports, briefs, and legal resources.
• Assist the Clinic in preparing legal briefs and research notes on significant developments in labour law.
• Maintain systematic records of research outputs, case data, and other research materials, and coordinate with partner lawyers to collect relevant case information.
• Regularly publish research-based writing on labour rights and labour law.

Qualifications

Essential

• Bachelor’s degree in law.
• 1-3 years of relevant professional experience in labour law, labour rights, workers’ rights, or work with marginalised and precarious communities, through litigation, legal research, civil society or workers’ organisations, trade unions, legal aid, community engagement, or related practice. Candidates with experience in any one or more of these areas will be considered.
• Excellent writing and editing skills.
• Strong organisational and communication skills.

Desirable

• Master’s degree (in law or allied disciplines).
• Prior experience in litigation and/or RTI work.
• Familiarity with labour rights research and field-based research.
• Publications in journals, blogs, newspapers or edited volumes.

Compensation

Salary will be commensurate with qualifications, experience and University norms.

How to Apply

Please use the Google form provided and include the following documents:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae.
• Statement of Purpose (500–800 words) explaining their interest in the position and relevant experience.
• One sole-authored writing sample (published or unpublished).
• Names, designations and contact details of two professional or academic referees.

Deadline

The last date for submission of applications is 10 September 2026, 5 PM (IST).
For any queries regarding the position, applicants may write to: