Project Fellow Crime & Punishment Team, Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy is a compelling opportunity for early-career legal researchers passionate about criminal justice reform in India. The Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy, a leading think tank based in New Delhi, is currently hiring a project fellow to join its Crime & Punishment vertical. If you’re looking to build a career in criminal law, research, and policy reform, this six-month position offers hands-on exposure to impactful legal work.
About Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy
The Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy is a non-profit legal think tank that works on improving governance and legal systems through rigorous research and policy advocacy. With teams focused on judicial reform, health law, education, and criminal justice, Vidhi has collaborated with central and state governments to draft and reform legislation, publish policy papers, and conduct field-level legal research.
The Crime & Punishment team works on pressing issues in criminal law including bail reform, prison systems, sentencing practices, and decriminalization efforts. As a Project Fellow Crime & Punishment Team, Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy, you’ll contribute to meaningful change in the Indian legal system.
Key Responsibilities
In the role of Project Fellow Crime & Punishment Team, Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy, your core responsibilities will include:
- Conducting detailed legal and empirical research on issues relating to criminal law, criminal procedure, sentencing, and corrections
- Drafting high-quality legal reports, policy briefs, blog posts, and articles for publication
- Supporting the design and execution of empirical studies including surveys and interviews
- Liaising with stakeholders including government departments, prison authorities, police officials, legal aid bodies, and civil society organizations
- Assisting in organizing public consultations, workshops, and outreach programs
- Contributing to internal team discussions and brainstorming policy recommendations
This is a research-heavy position that also involves public policy engagement and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Ideal Candidate Profile
To qualify for the Project Fellow Crime & Punishment Team, Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Educational Qualifications:
- A Bachelor’s degree in law (LL.B.) is mandatory
- A Master’s degree in law (LL.M.), criminology, public policy, or related fields is preferred
- A postgraduate degree will be considered equivalent to 1 year of work experience
Experience:
- 0–2 years of professional work experience in legal research, policy, or litigation
- Previous internships or full-time work in the criminal justice sector, courts, or legal think tanks is advantageous
- Prior experience with fieldwork (e.g., interviews in prisons or police stations) is desirable
Skills:
- Excellent legal research and analytical writing skills
- Strong communication and coordination skills
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
- Comfort with empirical methods and willingness to learn research tools (e.g., surveys, qualitative interviews)
Job Location & Duration
- Location: New Delhi (onsite, Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy office)
- Duration: 6 months, with the possibility of extension based on performance and project requirements
- Start Date: August 2025 (flexible)
- Deadline to Apply: 30th July 2025
Why Join as Project Fellow Crime & Punishment Team, Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy?
Joining as a Project Fellow Crime & Punishment Team, Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy will place you at the forefront of India’s criminal justice reform efforts. This is more than a job—it’s a chance to contribute to long-lasting policy changes.
Here’s what makes this position unique:
- Direct involvement in impactful legal and policy projects
- Opportunity to publish research in journals, reports, and national media
- Exposure to government stakeholders and institutional processes
- Learn from seasoned researchers and public law experts at Vidhi
- A culture of academic rigor, collaboration, and social justice commitment
How to Apply
To apply for the role of Project Fellow Crime & Punishment Team, Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy, please follow these steps:
- Fill out the official application form at:
https://lnkd.in/gYC7H23D - Submit your CV, writing sample, and cover letter outlining:
- Why you’re interested in the role
- Relevant past work or research experience
- Your interest in criminal law and justice reform
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview. Early applications are encouraged.
Conclusion
If you’re an emerging legal professional with a deep interest in criminal law, research, and policy reform, the position of Project Fellow Crime & Punishment Team, Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy offers a powerful launchpad for your career. Take the first step in creating systemic change—apply before 30th July 2025.
