The Bitner Research Fellowship for foreign law librarians offers a unique opportunity for visitors from underserved communities around the world to experience American law librarianship, learn the American legal system, and network with professional librarians to create life-lasting personal and professional connections.Intended to foster professional development, the fellowship is tailored to each fellow’s area of interest. Bitner Research Fellows are provided with exposure to Cornell Law Library’s excellent resources, and the expertise of its professional librarians, while learning about advanced legal research in a global context. The endowment funding this opportunity is a tribute to the late Professor Harry Bitner, Cornell Law Librarian (1965-76) by his daughter and son-in-law, Lorraine and Richard Gilden, J.D. ’71. Fellows are selected by the library education committee based upon the current needs of Cornell Law Library and upon the eligibility guidelines set forth below.
- Applicants must commit to a minimum of one week of full time service to Cornell Law Library (maximum 3 weeks);
- Applications will consist of a cover letter stating the applicant’s interest, resume, project proposal, and three letters from professional references;
- Candidates being considered will be contacted for an interview; and
- At the end of the fellowship, fellows are required to submit a final report or complete a previously agreed upon project.
Fellows will be provided with meals, lodging, and a stipend for the duration of the fellowship, as well as reimbursement for travel expenses.
APPLICATIONS FOR FELLOWSHIPS ARE CURRENTLY NOT BEING ACCEPTED
Current and Past Bitner Fellows

Darlington Musemburi
Bitner Fellow, 2019

Marília de Souza de Mello
Bitner Fellow, 2018

Oludayo John Bambose
Bitner Fellow, 2017

Evelyn Lagos Aros
Bitner Fellow, 2016

Janet Odetsi-Twum
Bitner Fellow, 2016

Nubia Mateus Zorro
Bitner Fellow, 2015

Maropene Ramabina
Bitner Fellow, 2014

Jingwei Zhang
Bitner Fellow, 2013

Priya Rai
Bitner Fellow, 2012