The JSW Centre for the Future of Law at India’s top-ranked law university is opening its doors to senior researchers and legal scholars on a rolling basis, offering a paid, residential fellowship that puts visitors at the center of some of the most pressing questions at the intersection of law, technology, and systemic reform. This is a working fellowship with real deliverables, not an honorary placement.
About the JSW Centre Short-Term Visiting Fellowship
Established in 2024 with support from the JSW Foundation and housed at the National Law School of India University (NLSIU) in Bengaluru, the JSW Centre for the Future of Law focuses on expanding academic learning and informing policy debates around law, technology, and institutional reform. NLSIU has held the top position in India’s National Institutional Ranking Framework for law universities for eight consecutive years. The Centre commenced its research activities during Academic Year 2025/2026 and is now accepting applications on a rolling basis for two upcoming trimester placements.
Read Also: United Nations International Law Fellowship Programme 2026 – Apply Now
Funding Size
- Monthly remuneration: INR 1,00,000 to INR 1,20,000 depending on qualifications and experience
- Duration: 3 months per trimester placement
- No participation fees
Who Can Apply
- Holders of a PhD in law, public policy, social sciences, or allied disciplines
- Individuals with at least ten years of experience in research or academic roles may apply in lieu of a PhD
- Demonstrated expertise in at least one of the Centre’s thematic priority areas
- Proven research activity including publications or equivalent output
- Excellent writing and editing skills across academic, policy, and public-facing formats
- Currently employed applicants must provide a no-objection letter from their employer
Geographic Eligibility
- Open globally
- Fellows must be fully resident on the NLSIU campus in Bengaluru for the duration of their trimester
Sector or Thematic Focus
- Law and technology including the impact of emerging technologies on the legal system and profession
- Health regulation and law
- Environment and the law
- Corporate governance and reform
- Future of legal education and the legal profession
Application Process
Applications are submitted online through the NLSIU website on a rolling basis. Applicants submit all required materials through the official online form. Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for further discussion. Applications are reviewed continuously, so early submission is encouraged for the upcoming trimester windows.
Required Materials
- Online application form
- Statement of Purpose or a short video of no more than three minutes submitted via a YouTube link, outlining the research proposal and the applicant’s suitability
- Curriculum vitae with full publication and research record
- No-objection letter from current employer where applicable
Key Dates
- July to September 2026 trimester: applications under review
- November 2026 to January 2027 trimester: applications reviewed on a rolling basis
- March to May 2027 trimester: applications reviewed on a rolling basis
Read Also: Google EMEA Legal Summer Institute 2026 – Apply Now
Selection Notes
- Fellows are expected to produce at least one working paper and two short-form outputs such as policy briefs or opinion pieces during the trimester
- Guest lectures and participation in faculty seminars are part of the fellowship obligations
- The program is competitive; early applications for upcoming trimesters are strongly encouraged