Researcher/Fellow U.S. Copyright Office: Barbara A. Ringer Copyright Honors Program

  • General Website: https://www.copyright.gov/
  • Program Website: https://www.copyright.gov/about/special-programs/ringer.html
  • Hosting Service Unit: Copyright
  • Program Contact: RingerHonorsProgram@loc.gov
  • Interests/Areas of Study: Law; Copyright Law
  • Citizenship: U.S. Citizen
  • Application Period: Finite period
  • Application Notes: Applications for the Ringer Honors Program are generally accepted from approximately August 30 through December 31, 2024. The anticipated time frame in which the selected applicant would begin his or her fellowship would be September 2025. An earlier start date may be possible at the discretion of the Office. See program website above for further information on application process and/or email the program contact for further information on the application process. Non-citizens may only be hired provided that other legal requirements are met and the Library determines there are no qualified U.S. citizens available for the position.
  • Compensation: Ringer Fellows are appointed at a General Schedule (GS) level ranging from 11 to 14, depending upon their individual qualifications and experience.
  • Academic Credit: No Credit
  • Available Benefits: Transit. Health. LC Internal Discounts.
  • Program Duration: Long-term. 18 - 24 months
  • Qualifications: In final year at a U.S.-accredited law school or have graduated from such a law school (receiving a J.D. or LL.M.) within the 5-year period preceding application date.

The U.S. Copyright Office Barbara A. Ringer Copyright Honors Program offers 18 to 24-month paid fellowships for law clerks and attorneys in the initial stages of their careers who demonstrate exceptional ability and interest in copyright law ("Ringer Fellows”). Ringer Fellows work closely with senior attorneys and others in the Office of the General Counsel (OGC), the Office of Policy and International Affairs (PIA), the Office of the Register (REG) and/or the Office of Registration Policy & Practice (RPP) on a range of copyright-related law and policy matters. In addition to performing an important public service, Ringer Fellows acquire unparalleled insight into the U.S. copyright system to draw upon in their future careers.