Volunteer Legal Research Associate

4 weeks ago


Ottawa, Ontario, Canada Blockchain & Climate Institute Full time

IMPORTANT: THIS IS A VOLUNTARY UNPAID POSITION.

Position Title: Legal Research Associate (Innovative Technologies)

Position Type: Volunteer

Location: Remote

The Blockchain & Climate Institute (BCI) operates as a global volunteer-driven think tank dedicated to promoting and advocating for the utilization of blockchain technology in addressing climate change challenges.

Applicants for this UNPAID VOLUNTEER position should have a solid understanding of climate change legislation and a keen interest in distributed ledger technologies, along with a strong commitment to advancing BCI's mission.

Candidates are expected to develop comprehensive methodologies for legal research initiatives, conduct independent legal inquiries and analyses, and engage with key stakeholders, including lawmakers, regulatory bodies, legal professionals, and policy influencers, to forge strategic alliances that support BCI's core objectives. Under the mentorship of the Head of Legal Research and with assistance from members of the Regulatory Reform Working Group, Legal Research Associates will have the opportunity to publish research findings and create briefing documents for governmental partners. Senior Legal Research Associates may also be tasked with drafting speeches and/or representing BCI at external conferences.

The typical time commitment for all roles at BCI averages one day per week, which can be flexibly allocated throughout the week.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Provide research assistance on topics related to legislation or regulations concerning international climate and environmental treaties;
  • Engage with relevant stakeholders in the sustainability and policy sectors to develop strategic partnerships or collaborative opportunities;
  • Communicate BCI's research outcomes and insights at international conferences or high-profile events.

Qualifications

Skills & Competencies

  • Exceptional verbal communication skills, with the ability to cultivate effective working relationships and communicate professionally with stakeholders at all levels;
  • Driven by purpose, with a passion for climate justice, innovation, and complex systems;
  • Proficiency in one of the following languages is advantageous: Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish.

Knowledge & Expertise

  • In-depth knowledge of topics such as big data security, climate change, UNFCCC processes, and public international law related to climate and environmental issues;
  • Basic understanding of distributed ledger technology, token economies, smart contracts, and crypto-assets;
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office and legal research databases like Lexis Nexis;
  • Familiarity with academic and citation tools such as Mendeley.

Education & Training

  • A law degree is required;
  • A Master's degree in fields such as International Environmental Law, Climate Policy, or Information Technology Law is highly desirable.

Relevant Experience

  • Demonstrated ability to conduct academic research in international environmental law, climate change policy, and/or Internet/Technology law is preferred;
  • Experience working both independently and collaboratively in a team setting to advance projects using initiative;
  • Experience in designing, planning, and executing independent research while meeting tight deadlines;
  • Prior experience in law firms or startups is not required but is considered a plus.

Benefits

Engagement with blockchain and emerging technologies, alongside climate change and sustainability, represents two of the most pressing topics currently shaping media narratives, conferences, and research initiatives. A key aspect of BCI's mission is to assist legislators and policymakers in creating a conducive environment for the adoption of distributed ledger technologies. This role will enhance BCI's legal research on the interplay between existing legal frameworks and innovative technologies.

Volunteering with BCI offers numerous benefits, including:

  • Opportunities to refine or acquire new skills in research, presentation, writing, and professional conduct;
  • Intellectual stimulation that provides a sense of purpose;
  • Advancement of your professional career through networking and gaining real-world experience at the intersection of climate and emerging technologies;
  • Development of lasting professional relationships with like-minded individuals committed to making a positive impact.

Selection Process

As a voluntary organization, BCI welcomes candidates who may lack prior experience but demonstrate the necessary skills in their written assessments. To identify the most suitable and talented candidates from the pool of applications, BCI considers inexperienced individuals for our unpaid volunteer roles, provided they can showcase the required competencies. The selection process includes the following assessments:

Section A: Verbal and Numerical Reasoning (20 multiple-choice questions)

Section B: Situational Judgment Test (20 multiple-choice questions)

Section C: In-Tray Exercise (An open-ended assessment relevant to the role's responsibilities)

Candidates who successfully complete all three sections will be invited for a phone screening, followed by a first and final interview conducted online.



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