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Visiting academics and PhD candidates are a key aspect of the Centre’s activities and come from all over the world to stay for a period of research.

Research

The Visiting Fellowship programme is open to scholars wishing to undertake research in all areas of public international law. Visitors come to pursue their own research in a peaceful and congenial atmosphere where they have an opportunity to meet other scholars and Centre Fellows. Or they may come to spend a period in quiet reading. Visitors are left to get on with their work in the manner that best suits them but also encouraged to take part in Centre activities.

Sharing ideas and research

Jennifer Maass, Brunswick European Law School (BELS), Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences - December 2022 "If there is a decisive experience on my PhD journey that has inspired me, enriched my thinking and driven my projects forward, it is my research stay at the Lauterpacht Centre for International Law (LCIL). Summer and winter alike, it is the crucible of the LCIL that stimulates exchanges with scholars from all over the world and the creation of new universes of thought. The Centre is excellently integrated into the structures of the University of Cambridge and other research centres. The networking opportunities are unparalleled and access to an incredible number of research sources is guaranteed, even in the garden of the Lauterpacht Centre, where the history of international law, balmy evening breezes, and sometimes classical music blend into a uniquely stimulating atmosphere. The LCIL thrives on progressiveness, most wonderful staff and the magic of community across all borders."

Jennifer Maass, Brunswick European Law School (BELS), Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences - December 2022


Philip Nedelcu, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich - July 2022"The Lauterpacht Centre for International Law is a fantastic place to conduct research and truly progress in a research project. The way that the Centre is organized sets it apart from other research centres. The coffee meeting encourages people to come together and share ideas every morning. Every week, the Visiting Fellows’ talks allow a more formal forum to discuss methodology, research findings and perspectives on International Law. The opportunity to share ideas with the Fellows and Visiting Researchers has greatly enhanced my own perspectives. Beyond that, I have to highlight how much the staff of the Centre is supportive and how much they contribute to a fantastic environment. Overall, fantastic people, a wonderful atmosphere, and access to all the materials one would need to research international law. Undoubtedly, a world-class place to conduct research."

Dr João Ilhão Moreira, University of Macau - August 2023


Visitors roundtable talk at the Lauterpacht Centre for International Law Visiting Fellow presenting in the Finley/Berkowitz Lecture Hall

Application guidelines

The following are some guidelines if you are considering applying to be a Visiting Fellow or Scholar:

  • Applicants should first make an initial enquiry to the Centre by emailing their research objectives to visitors@lcil.cam.ac.uk. If research objectives fall within the remit of the Centre, more information will be sent;
  • The Centre accepts applications for students completing work on their PhD;
  • Decisions regarding applications are made by the Committee of Management;
  • The work of the Centre is conducted in English. Visitors who are not proficient in English will experience difficulty in sharing fully in the life of the Centre. A good standard of English-language competence is required in line with the standards set by the Faculty of Law for PhD students (currently, an IELTS score of 7.5, or an iTOEFL score of 110 with minimum levels set in each element). Further information on requirements: PhD in Law | Postgraduate Admissions (cam.ac.uk)
  • In principle, the Centre does not accept persons enrolled for higher degrees at UK universities (including Cambridge) as Visiting Fellows or Scholars;
  • Visiting Fellows and Scholars pay a fee to assist in covering the cost of provision of facilities at the Centre. This includes computers, libraries (University of Cambridge Library and the Squire Law Library) and desk space. The Centre is not in a position to provide financial assistance. All visitors must have the means to support themselves for the duration of their stay;
  • It is the Visiting Fellow's/Scholar's responsibility to apply for the correct visa if a visa is required for entry to the UK; 
  • Visiting Fellows and Scholars are encouraged to attend all open lectures and other events that are held at the Centre. By arrangement they may also attend lectures and talks on international law and related subjects elsewhere in the University;
  • Visitors normally stay at the Centre between one term and one year;
  • The Lauterpacht Centre is not a teaching institution, and does not award diplomas or certificates. Those interested in enrolling for Cambridge University degree or diploma courses in international law or international relations should contact the Faculty of Law or the Department of Politics and International Studies.

Photos of the Lauterpacht Centre and its facilities


Visiting Fellow Talk at the Lauterpacht Centre for International Law“I have been a returning visitor to the Lauterpacht Centre for the fourth time now. The Centre provides the perfect combination of a focused working environment, beautiful premises and vibrant intellectual atmosphere. The coffee breaks, lunchtime lectures and visiting fellows round tables are excellent opportunities for stimulating discussions and inspiring exchanges with other visiting fellows, LCIL fellows and other academics from all over the world. Every visit here, I am very productive, get a lot of work done and receive ideas for new projects. I highly recommend a visit - and I can’t wait until my next one!”

Dr Andreas Kulick, University of Tübingen/University of Potsdam