PhD/Research Opportunity in Law: Corpus Christi Graduate Legal Research Course at the University of Oxford Corpus Christi College, University of Oxford in United Kingdom

Corpus Christi College, University of Oxford is advertising a Graduate Legal Research Course for PhD/research students in law in September 2026. This is a short, research-led, non-degree opportunity designed to help graduate law students make progress on a “Great Little Idea” — for example, a chapter of a thesis, a doctoral theme, or another meaningful legal research question.

The course runs from 1 to 27 September 2026 at Corpus Christi College, Oxford. It focuses on developing research ideas, sharpening methodology, and supporting independent research through seminars and discussion in a supportive intellectual community. Participants receive 9 hours of seminars on research methods with College Law Fellows, access to university library resources via a visitor card, access to Corpus facilities where possible, and engagement with Oxford’s wider academic environment.

The opportunity is especially relevant for students working in law, legal research, and research methods, with a strong emphasis on doctoral-level work. The course is not a degree programme and does not lead to a qualification beyond a certificate of completion. It is intended to help participants progress a substantial piece of research and improve skills in analysis, argumentation, communication, presentation, and time management.

Eligibility: graduate research students working on a PhD or equivalent on a legal topic. The organisers also warmly encourage applications from those underrepresented in academia or from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Funding/costs: this is not a funded studentship. The participation fee is £375 per person, covering administrative costs, a course dinner, and lunches where possible. Teaching is free. Optional accommodation may be available at a College property for £50.25 per person per night inclusive of VAT, available in principle from 29 August 2026 to 27 September 2026.

Application: applicants should email Professor Matt Dyson with a short CV (maximum 4 pages, A4, 12pt) and up to 500 words explaining their Great Little Idea and why Oxford is the right place to develop it. The deadline is Monday 8 June 2026.

Contact: informal inquiries can be sent to [email protected].