Senior Research Fellow

Senior Research Fellow with Vanderbilt University (Nashville, TN) Work with The Future of Free Speech Project team to conduct cutting-edge research, contribute to the development of policy recommendations, and engage with stakeholders from academia, civil society, and industry. Contribute to efforts to advance understanding of free speech in the digital age in Europe, the United States, and beyond. Explore the challenges and opportunities for free speech in the rapidly evolving landscape of online communication and digital media. Conduct empirical research and advocacy on the state of global freedom of expression and how it can be strengthened to empower democracy, tolerance, and rule of law, and how the harms of free expression can be mitigated through non-restrictive measures. Conduct original research on topics related to free speech in the digital age, such as content moderation, online harassment, platform governance, and the impact of emerging technologies, such as AI, on free speech. Analyze data and literature and develop insights and recommendations for policy and practice. Contribute to the development of project reports, policy briefs, and academic publications. Engage with stakeholders from academia, civil society, and industry to share project findings and perspectives. Support project events, such as workshops, conferences, and webinars, by contributing to their planning and execution. Collaborate with the project team and other research fellows to advance the overall goals of the Project. Job Requirements : Requires a Master’s or PhD in Political Science, Law, Sociology, Public Administration, or related field. Position requires experience (5 years with a Master’s or 2 years with a PhD). Must have some experience in each of the following skills : Legal and policy research to critically analyze, compare, and assess legislation and regulatory frameworks across multiple jurisdictions and in various contexts including European Union law; A portfolio of at least three published reports, white papers, legal opinions, policy briefs, or peer-reviewed articles; Leading and contributing to bilateral and multilateral policy dialogues and consultations with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, regulatory bodies, private sector entities, and civil society organizations; Demonstrated legal and policy drafting abilities, producing high-quality reports, policy briefs, legal opinions, and articles for diverse audiences including legal practitioners, policymakers, and the general public; Organizing and speaking at conferences, workshops, or panel discussions involving large and diverse audiences including developing event agendas, moderating or presenting at expert panels, and delivering remarks on legal and policy issues; Creating and maintaining working relationships in multicultural and international settings, showcasing adaptability, cross-cultural communication skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues from diverse professional and cultural backgrounds. Vanderbilt University has a strong institutional commitment to recruiting and retaining an academically and culturally diverse community of faculty. Minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and members of other underrepresented groups, in particular, are encouraged to apply. Vanderbilt is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. To apply, send resume and cover letter to : ois@vanderbilt.edu #LI-DNI