Staff Attorney

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join Harvard Law School?

Join a community that combines excellence in legal education and scholarship with a deep commitment to justice. Here at Harvard Law School (HLS), you’ll find an environment that values who you are and encourages you to grow, inspire others, and make a meaningful impact. Wherever you are in your career journey, HLS is a place where you can thrive, contribute, and be part of something bigger.

The Brooks McCormick Jr. Animal Law and Policy Program (ALPP) is seeking a Staff Attorney to lead the production of both the Animal Law Digest: US Edition (Animal Law Digest), and phase one of a new aquaculture project. The Staff Attorney will conduct legal and policy research, oversee and directly contribute to the production of the Animal Law Digest, and design and adapt the new aquaculture publication to enhance its utility. They will also work on other projects to analyze and improve the treatment of animals through the legal system. The Staff Attorney will work in close collaboration with the Executive Director, Faculty Director, Fellows, and student Research Assistants and in consultation with stakeholders.   

The responsibilities of the Staff Attorney include:  

• Overseeing the production of the Animal Law Digest and directly contributing to research and drafting the publication. 
• Contributing to new projects to track and analyze federal and state legislation, regulation, and litigation developments and initiatives in the field of animal law and policy. 
• With the Executive Director and Faculty Director, creating and strengthening partnerships with stakeholders including other academic institutions, think-tanks, and NGOs, by carrying out research and writing, and participating in meetings and other communications. 
• Collaborating with other Harvard initiatives. 
• Generating and sustaining 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.  
• Advising on and coordinating the research activities of research assistants and research fellows. 
• Developing and managing ALPP resources. 
• Contributing to the development of proposals for new projects.

Basic Qualifications

JD degree, admission to state bar, at least 3 years of relevant post-graduate professional experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

We are looking for people who have: 

• Superior research, writing, editing, and proofreading skills.   
• Ability to distill complex information into succinct summaries and meet strict recurring publication deadlines. 
• Ability to supervise and mentor more junior attorneys and researchers on joint projects. 
• Ability to communicate effectively and exercise judgment and discretion.  
• 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.  
• A collaborative, team-oriented approach with experience managing projects. 
• Experience in staff supervision is a plus but not mandatory. 

Appointment End Date: This position is for an initial one-year appointment, with the potential for renewal subject to department needs and funding.

Standard Hours/Schedule: Full-time.

Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position

Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education, Certification/License

Other Information:

Hybrid arrangements will be considered subject to an initial in-person minimum period of six weeks in Cambridge.  

All offers are made by HLS Human Resources.

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 057. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information. 

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.