Mentor–Student Co-Authorship Program

About the program

Each cycle, experienced researchers bring an original research idea and work with 2 to 3 undergraduate co-authors over a period of 4-6 months. Together they take a project from conception to journal-ready submission, learning how to identify a research question, build an argument, write for publication, and navigate the academic process.

For mentors

What We’re Looking For

We welcome mentors from law and multidisciplinary backgrounds, including sociology, political science, economics, psychology, technology/AI, environmental science, medicine/public health, philosophy, business, journalism etc. as long as your proposed research connects meaningfully to law.

As a Mentor, Your Responsibilities Include:

• Proposing a research topic you’d like to develop with students
• Guiding 1–2 assigned students from scratch; through topic refinement, literature review, methodology, and argument-building
• Actively teaching the research and academic writing process, not simply assigning tasks
• Reviewing student work diligently and responding within reasonable timeframes
• Co-authoring the final paper, with full and fair credit given to student contributions
• Seeing the project through to completion, and notifying DraftLaw Research in advance if genuine unforeseen circumstances require stepping back
• Maintaining confidentiality of research materials and drafts until formal publication
• Engaging professionally and respectfully with students and fellow mentors throughout

Important to Know

• This is a voluntary, unpaid mentorship role; DraftLaw Research does not generate financial gain from this program, and no fees are charged to students or mentors.
• Final papers are submitted for publication in an international journal of the mentor’s choosing.
• Mentors may be based anywhere in the world, this is a fully remote collaboration.

Why Join Us?

This is a chance to shape the next generation of legal thinkers, develop your own research ideas with dedicated student support, and contribute meaningfully to a growing academic community, all while building real mentorship experience.

How to apply

Please keep an eye out for an open call for mentors in the announcements section of our website or social media handles.

For students

What we look for

We welcome undergraduate law students with genuine curiosity for legal research, a willingness to learn, and the commitment to see a project through from start to finish. No prior research experience is required, our mentors will guide you from scratch.

Responsibilities

• Working closely and consistently with your assigned mentor throughout the project
• Actively learning and applying the fundamentals of academic legal research
• Completing assigned tasks diligently and within agreed deadlines
• Communicating promptly if you’re unable to meet a deadline or complete a task
• Maintaining confidentiality of research materials and drafts until formal publication
• Engaging respectfully and professionally with your mentor and fellow collaborators
• Committing to the project through completion, and seeking permission in advance if genuine unforeseen circumstances require stepping back

Who can apply

Undergraduate or fresh graduate or postgraduate law students from any jurisdiction or region can apply, since this is a remote opportunity.

Important to Know

• This opportunity is completely free — no fees at any stage.
• You’ll be credited as co-author on the final paper, alongside your mentor.
• The paper will be submitted for publication in a reputable international journal.
• Successful participation can be a strong addition to your CV and a real edge for LL.M. admissions and scholarship applications abroad

How to apply

Please keep an eye out for an open call for mentors in the announcements section of our website or social media handles.