Law Fellow, Climate and Energy

Since 1969, the Environmental Law Institute (ELI) has played a pivotal role in shaping the fields of environmental law, policy, and management, domestically and abroad. We are an internationally recognized, non-partisan research and education center working to strengthen environmental protection by improving law and governance worldwide.

The Climate and Energy Law Fellowship, a one-year position for a recent law school graduate junior attorney (with the possibility of extension), is a unique opportunity to contribute to research and education on various climate and energy topics. The Law Fellow will work primarily with the Institute’s Climate Judiciary Project (CJP), which educates judges about climate science, impacts, and solutions and how they are arising in the law. The Project partners with national, state, and academic judicial education institutions on events, produces training materials, and fosters a better understanding of science and the law in the judicial community.

The Law Fellow will work closely with other ELI attorneys and professionals to develop CJP curriculum materials, create educational content, and plan events. This will include researching and drafting materials related to the law and policy dimensions of climate change and the energy transition for publications and presentations. The Law Fellow will also contribute to the preparation, development, and delivery of presentations for in-person and virtual events. The Law Fellow may also, as needed, support ELI’s other climate and energy-related work.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Juris Doctor

• One to two years of relevant legal experience, such as a judicial clerkship and/or experience in environmental, energy, or natural resource law and policy
• Availability to begin work no later than September 2, 2026, although applicants who are available sooner are encouraged to apply
• Strong legal and policy research, analytical writing, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to communicate effectively across different mediums and with a broad range of people, including representing ELI publicly in a manner consistent with our mission and values
• Excellent organization skills, attention to detail, and ability to prioritize
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively in a team setting

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office software, including Word, Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Ability to be on-site in our DC office 2 days a week (we are open to the possibility of remote work for the right candidate)

ABOUT ELI

The Environmental Law Institute (ELI) is an environmental law, science, and policy center that makes law work for people, places, and the planet. We envision a healthy environment, prosperous economies, and vibrant communities founded on the rule of law. Our mission is to foster innovative, just, and practical law and policy solutions to enable leaders across borders and sectors to make environmental, economic, and social progress. ELI’s Research and Policy experts develop innovative legal and governance solutions to challenges in areas such as climate change; environmental justice; natural resource management; land conservation and smart growth; biodiversity loss and habitat destruction; and air, water, and soil pollution. Together, ELI’s staff aims to:

• Build the skills and capacity of tomorrow’s leaders and institutions
• Research and analyze complex and pressing environmental challenges
• Promote and disseminate the best thinking through print and electronic media
• Work with partners to develop and implement laws, policies, and other means to protect the environment and society
• Convene people with diverse perspectives to build understanding through robust dialogue

For more information on ELI’s programs, visit https://www.eli.org/programs.

COMPENSATION

The annual compensation for this position is $65,000 - $70,000. We also provide excellent benefits including:

• Health/Dental/Vision insurance
• Flexible Spending Account
• Employer paid life insurance & disability insurance
• Pre-tax transportation benefit
• Monthly Wellness Incentive
• Paid Time Off
• 403(b) Retirement Savings Account with employer match

HOW TO APPLY

To apply, submit an application package via ELI's online application system at www.eli.org/employment. Note that your submission must contain the following uploaded documents (Word or PDF format), as follows:

• Cover letter, addressing your experience and interest in carrying out the duties outlined above
• Resume
• Writing sample of approximately 10 (but no more than 15) pages.

Finalists for the position will be requested to provide three references. Applications must be submitted no later than March 31, 2026 and will be reviewed on a rolling basis. You must use ELI’s online application system; ELI cannot accept applications submitted by email, USPS or other shipping service, or hand delivery. This position is not eligible for immigration sponsorship.

ELI is an equal opportunity employer firmly committed to achieving an inclusive, diverse workforce that values every individual. We firmly believe that hiring individuals with varying perspectives and backgrounds contributes to our success as an organization, and we strive to create an environment that fosters inclusiveness. If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer at opportunities @ eli.org, or 202-939-3815 to discuss an accommodation or an alternative application process.