About SDRI
The State Democracy Research Initiative at the University of Wisconsin Law School is a leading source of credible nonpartisan expertise on state-level democracy, state constitutions, and state government institutions—subjects too often neglected in legal and policy circles. SDRI generates urgently needed knowledge and ideas that undergird front-line efforts to preserve and strengthen state democracy around the country.
Through original academic research, white papers, explainers, amicus briefs, interactive websites, informal consultations, conferences, and public-facing events, SDRI reaches academics, courts, policymakers, advocates, journalists, and others. Our work facilitates and shapes dialogue on state-level democracy and contributes to the diffusion of pro-democratic practices and policies across states.
Position Summary
SDRI is seeking applicants for sponsored fellowships—including but not limited to the Equal Justice Works or Justice Catalyst Fellowships—to begin work in the Fall of 2026. SDRI is seeking applicants interested in focusing on state constitutional law and the work of state courts. Fellowships will be time-limited for one or two-year terms.
While we are open to exploring other projects, we are specifically seeking a fellow to advance large-scale research projects such as our ongoing 50 Constitutions project, an interactive resource that seeks to boost state constitutional literacy and engagement by offering searchable, user-friendly access to the text of every state constitution as well as historical materials and other tools. Among other things, a fellow working on this project will help expand the website’s Tracking Constitutional Change features, which allows users to see how state constitutions have evolved over time and provides narrative detail on notable constitutional developments.
If interested, please contact SDRI’s Executive Director Bree Grossi Wilde at bgwilde@wisc.edu. In your email, please describe your interest in partnering with SDRI in pursuing fellowships and attach a resume and transcript.