Climate Action Fellow

Vermont Law School is seeking a Climate Action Fellow for a one-year position focused on climate law research and advocacy within the Environmental Advocacy Clinic. Responsibilities include researching climate law, contributing to cases, and presenting findings. Candidates should have a J.D. with a strong interest in climate issues and a commitment to diversity. The role offers full-time benefits, including health insurance and paid time off, based in Royalton, VT.
Overview: The Climate Action Fellow position is a one-year opportunity to conduct academic, legal, and/or policy research on climate law while working with student clinicians in the Environmental Advocacy Clinic on cutting-edge climate litigation and advocacy. The position honors the climate law leadership of Professor Emeritus and Senior Fellow for Climate Policy Patrick Parenteau. Responsibilities:
• Research and publish white papers, articles, and other materials on topics related to climate change law (50%)
• Contribute to climate-related cases and projects within the Environmental Advocacy Clinic (50%)
• Participate actively in the dynamic VLGS environment, including collaboration with other law school and graduate programs
• Participate in and assist with the ELC's Annual Colloquium on Environmental Scholarship, Summer Session, and other ELC events and activities
• Deliver at least one public or campus-community presentation or lecture on the Fellow's research
• Work with ELC and VLGS communications staff to inform the press and help develop communication strategies where appropriate
• Attend and present at relevant conferences
• Help organize conferences, seminars, and collaborative publications at VLGS and with other institutions
• *Qualifications:**
• A J.D. degree with 0-5 years of practice experience
• Strong academic qualifications and a demonstrated interest in climate law, climate justice, and/or environmental, natural resources or energy law and policy
• A demonstrated commitment to racial justice and an understanding of and appreciation for inclusive teaching practices
• Understanding of and appreciation for inclusion, including the ability to work with students, faculty, and staff from diverse backgrounds, identities, and viewpoints
• Ability to communicate clearly and fluently in English by phone, email, and in-person with internal and external constituents
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (365) programs
• Ability to adapt to new and emerging technology as established and communicated by the school
• Must be able to work legally within the United States without sponsorship
• Ability to perform all essential functions of the job with or without basic accommodations
• *Benefits:**
• Full benefits (medical, dental, vision, etc.) * 403b including 4% employer contribution
• 2 weeks of paid vacation in addition to paid personal and sick days
• 11 paid holidays plus two weeks of paid "Dean's Days" for Summer and Winter breaks
• Employee Assistance Program
• VLGS course participation with tuition assistance
• Flexible schedule potential