Commercial Counsel
Substantive Legal Experience
London
Legal Staffing
Mar 2, 2026

Legal Counsel (2–4 PQE) – Technology & Research

Role Overview
This position involves supporting cutting edge research and operational activities within a fast moving technology and innovation environment. You will work closely with cross functional teams, providing high quality legal support across commercial, IP, technology, research, and regulatory matters.

Key Responsibilities

  • Draft, structure and negotiate a variety of agreements linked to research and operational initiatives, including collaboration agreements, purchasing agreements, event sponsorships and technology R&D contracts.
  • Support strategic research efforts by identifying key legal issues, assessing risks, and providing clear, commercially aligned advice.
  • Deliver impactful legal guidance across the organisation on matters relating to intellectual property, open source issues, privacy, product launches, AI related research, and project specific regulatory considerations.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with crossfunctional stakeholders, helping streamline contracting processes and ensuring smooth engagement with the Legal team.
  • Contribute to a collaborative legal culture by sharing knowledge, insights and best practices with colleagues.

Minimum Requirements

  • 2–4 years’ PQE, gained in private practice and/or a reputable in house legal team.
  • Qualified solicitor in England & Wales, Australia, or admitted as a US attorney.
  • Strong experience drafting, negotiating and advising on technology related commercial agreements, with a solid understanding of IP issues.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Requirements

  • Prior in-house experience within a technology or research driven organisation, partnering closely with business teams.
  • Interest or experience in innovative technology sectors, such as science, climate/sustainability, education technology or AI research/deployment.
  • Ability to balance legal, cultural and commercial considerations, providing practical and solutions oriented advice.
  • Skilled at working with stakeholders on complex or strategically significant legal issues, building trust across the business.
  • Highly organised, comfortable in a fast paced environment, able to juggle multiple tasks and proactively take initiative.
  • Confident working independently while also thriving within a supportive, collaborative legal team.
  • Immediate start preferred.