Reference center: Research Center for Law and Investment on Future and Earth

Established in 2025 at Luiss “Guido Carli” University, the Observatory for International Adjudication Studies (OIAS) is an academic hub dedicated to the theoretical and practical study of international jurisdiction, both at the regional and universal levels. The Observatory aims to serve as a key hub for scientific research and critical debate on the evolution of international litigation.

The Observatory delves into the dynamics of the judicial function as it addresses complex legal issues arising from various fields, such as international environmental law, the protection of foreign investments, and the international safeguarding of human rights. As international dispute resolution mechanisms increasingly address cross-cutting issues—such as the balance between state sovereignty and transnational obligations or the integration of climate justice into investment arbitration—the Observatory aims to critically assess their effectiveness, legitimacy, and adaptability.

In addition to fostering scholarly debate, the Observatory aims to become a vibrant international hub for academic excellence. Its activities will include producing high-impact scientific contributions, as well as organizing lectures, international conferences, workshops, and seminars. These initiatives aim to provide a platform for critical discussion between scholars and legal practitioners, offering practical insights and recommendations to guide the future evolution of international justice.

Visiting Researchers

International Program for Researchers from Abroad at OIAS

Description

With the aim of fostering international scientific collaboration, OIAS invites scholars—senior and junior academics, researchers, post-docs, and doctoral candidates—from around the world to apply for a research period at the Observatory. The program encourages researchers to contribute to the intellectual vibrancy of the Observatory, while benefiting from its network of experts in the fields of international justice and international law.

Eligibility requirements and topics:

Applicants must be self-funded, whether through funds provided by their home universities, scholarships, or other funding mechanisms. All proposals related to international justice will be considered, with preference given to those that align with the Observatory’s scientific priorities, such as sustainability, human rights, investment dispute resolution, and international environmental law.

Program Details:

• Duration: Research periods will be adjusted to align with academic calendars, but the July–August period will generally be unavailable due to the summer break.
• Accommodation: Guest researchers will have a workspace and access to the resources of the Observatory or the Luiss Department of Law. 
• Participation: Researchers will be expected to actively participate in the Observatory’s scientific initiatives, including seminars, conferences, and projects.

Researchers interested in conducting research at the Observatory can apply by submitting:

• A curriculum vitae detailing academic and professional experience;
• A brief research proposal (maximum 1,000 words) outlining the activities planned during the stay;
• Indication of a potential faculty member at Luiss University; 
• Applications must be submitted in English to OIAS, with the subject line: “Visiting Researcher Program_First Name_Last Name.”

All required documents and information must be sent via email to both Dr. Manfredi Marciante (mmarciante@luiss.it) and Dr. Fiamma Concarella (fconcarella@luiss.it). Applications sent to only one email address will not be considered.

 Residency Periods:

• Spring semester: February 1, 2025 – May 16, 2025
• Fall semester: September 1, 2025 – December 13, 2025
• Spring semester: January 12, 2026 – May 16, 2026

Requests for stays outside these periods may be considered on a case-by-case basis.