Research topic

Climate Change and International Investment Treaties: Alignment of International Investment Treaty Policies with the Paris Agreement

The recognized and pressing threat posed by climate change has generated a broad range of government commitments, including, most notably, those under the Paris Agreement. Despite recognition of the need for swift and robust policy intervention, however, the real import of those international commitments and the extent to which they are compatible with the obligations owed by States to foreign investors under treaties for the protection of foreign investment remains unclear. In light of the practical import and pressing nature of these questions, it is a time of particular importance for academics to contribute to the debate, through balanced and informed analysis of how investment treaties could strike an appropriate balance between investors’ rights, the interests of governments in attracting climate-resilient investment and the need to take meaningful action to combat climate change

Against this background, CRiL invites proposals for research projects aimed at exploring the legal and policy challenges which may prevent the full alignment of State’s investment policies with their climate change obligations, with a view to identifying approaches which strike the appropriate balance between all interests at stake.

For enquiries on this topic, please contact Dr Oke Ejims (oke.ejims@beds.ac.uk).

Eligibility Criteria

A good first degree in Law or related discipline (minimum high 2:1 (Hons) level) is essential; additional qualifications, in particular, a Master’s degree or relevant professional experience are desirable.

Applicants for whom English is not their first language are required to demonstrate their ability in English e.g. IELTS overall minimum score of 6.5.

International and EU applicants should also ensure that they meet relevant visa and residency requirements.

How to Apply

Applications must include:

• A completed Research Graduate School Application Form [PDF]
• Proposal (2000-word max)
• Curriculum vitae
• Copy of your passport
• Copy of your certificate and transcript of highest qualification

International/EU applicants must also send the following:

• Immigration History Form [DOCX]
• If you are an EU Applicant with EU Settled or Pre-Settled Status, please complete and submit the following form EU Applicant Form [DOCX]
• Copy of English language qualifications
• Copies of any additional immigration related documentation

The closing date for applications is 17:00 BST on Thursday 30^th November 2023.

Your proposal, covering letter, fully completed application form and copies of certificates and transcripts, should be emailed to CRiL@beds.ac.uk AND research@beds.ac.uk by the closing time and date.

Interviews will take place by video conference during the week commencing 5^th December 2023.