Arbitration & Conciliation Centre Opens Applications for Research Assistants
The Arbitration & Conciliation Centre in Bengaluru, established under the aegis of the High Court of Karnataka, has announced the availability of five positions for Research Assistants on an honorarium basis. This initiative, approved by the Centre’s Board of Governors, aims to attract talented law professionals and provide them with comprehensive exposure to the intricacies of arbitration proceedings—an essential component of alternative dispute resolution.
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
In its notification dated April 27, 2026, the Centre outlines several criteria for prospective applicants. Candidates must hold a law degree with at least 50% aggregate marks and must not be older than 30 years at the time of application. Additionally, applicants must be registered advocates with the Karnataka State Bar Council and demonstrate proficiency in research and analytical skills, writing, as well as in the use of computer-based research and data retrieval systems.
Role and Responsibilities
The appointed Research Assistants will operate under the guidance of the Directorate, tasked with various responsibilities. These include managing arbitration case records, organizing both physical and electronic documents, conducting legal research on domestic and international arbitration laws, and preparing research papers and newsletters. Other duties involve compiling pleadings and records, addressing public inquiries about arbitration, maintaining databases, coordinating with arbitral tribunals, and performing additional tasks as assigned by the Directorate.
Terms of Employment
The initial appointment is for one year, subject to renewal at the discretion of the Board of Governors. The selected candidates will receive a monthly honorarium of ₹40,000. Importantly, this is a full-time position, prohibiting selected candidates from practicing law or engaging in other employment during their tenure. They must also inform the Karnataka State Bar Council about their employment status.
Moreover, Research Assistants are required to uphold confidentiality according to Section 42A of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, ensuring that no sensitive information is disclosed to unauthorized parties. Any candidate found providing false information may face a recommendation for prohibition from legal practice, contingent upon the Karnataka Bar Council’s decision.
In the event a candidate wishes to resign, a two-month notice period is mandatory, failing which their remuneration might be withheld or recovered. Additionally, the position entitles candidates to one day of casual leave per month, subject to the Director’s approval.
Application Process
Interested candidates must submit their applications online by June 1, 2026. Further details are available in the official notification, which can be accessed here.
