Reference center: Research Center Law and Investment on Future and Earth
Established in 2025 at Luiss University, the Observatory for International Adjudication Studies (OIAS) serves as an academic hub for research and dialogue on the evolving practice of international adjudication and its profound implications for the international legal order. Central to its mission is the analysis of how international judicial mechanisms contribute to the resolution of disputes while shaping substantive and procedural norms in areas critical to global governance.
The Observatory explores the dynamics of adjudication in addressing complex legal and factual issues arising from intersecting domains, such as environmental law, investment protection, and human rights. As international adjudicative bodies increasingly confront disputes involving cross-cutting issues – such as balancing sovereign rights with transnational obligations or integrating climate justice into investment arbitration – the Observatory seeks to critically evaluate their effectiveness, legitimacy, and adaptability.
In addition to advancing academic discourse, the Observatory is committed to create a vibrant international academic community hub. The outputs will be geared towards providing scientific activities, including high-impact publications, as well as the organization of lectures, international conferences, workshops, and seminars. These initiatives aim to serve as a platform for critical dialogue among scholars, practitioners, and policymakers, offering practical insights and policy recommendations to shape the future development of international adjudication.
Visiting Researchers
With the goal of promoting international collaboration, the OIAS invites scholars – senior and junior academics, postdoctoral researchers, and doctoral candidates – from around the world to apply for a position as a Visiting Researcher. The program encourages researchers to contribute to the Observatory’s vibrant academic environment and benefit from its network of experts in international adjudication and law.
Scholars interested in joining the project should be self-funded through institutional support, grants, or scholarships. While all topics related to international adjudication will be considered, preference will be given to those aligning with the Observatory’s research priorities, including sustainability, human rights, and dispute resolution in investment and environmental law.
The visits can be tailored to align with academic schedules, although July-August is typically unavailable due to vacations. Visiting researchers will be provided office space and access to resources at the Observatory or the Department of Law at Luiss, where they will actively participate in the Observatory’s academic initiatives, including seminars, conferences, and collaborative projects.
In order to apply scholars can send:
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CV detailing academic and professional experience.
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A brief research proposal (1.000 words max) outlining activities planned during the visit.
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Identification of a potential host faculty member at Luiss University.
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Applications should be submitted in English to OIAS, with “Visiting Researcher Program_Name_Surname” in the subject line.
Visiting Periods:
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Spring Term: February 1, 2025 – May 16, 2025
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Fall Term: September 1, 2025 – December 13, 2025
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Spring Term: January 12, 2026 – May 16, 2026
Exceptions may be made for visits outside these periods upon specific request.