Flinders Law School recently welcomed two Harvard Law School Juris Doctor students as part of their Winter Clinic Project, strengthening international collaboration and advancing research into climate change and nuclear testing.
Ruth Teklu and Savannah Barnwell visited Flinders Law School in January 2026, working closely with Associate Professor Sanzhuan (Sandra) Guo on research exploring the complex intersections of climate change, nuclear testing, and international law.
During their visit, Ruth and Savannah presented their findings at a seminar titled “Climate Change and Nuclear Testing in the Marshall Islands: Past, Present and Future.” In just 12 working days, the students made significant progress in their research, examining historical nuclear testing in the Marshall Islands and its ongoing environmental and legal implications.
The research also uncovered an unexpected connection to Greenland, one of the three locations where the United States deposited radioactive waste alongside the Marshall Islands and Spain. The project further explored issues surrounding the Compact of Free Association (COFA) and broader questions of environmental justice and international responsibility.
Beyond their academic work, Ruth and Savannah connected with the vibrant Flinders research community. During their stay, they networked with postdoctoral researchers, PhD candidates, Master’s students and undergraduate law students, including Hannah Esmaeili, who had previously completed a semester-long visiting placement at Harvard.
The visit also provided opportunities for collaboration with Flinders academics, with special thanks extended to Professor Vivienne Brand for her support of the project.
Associate Professor Guo said the visit demonstrated the value of international collaboration in addressing complex global challenges.
“It was wonderful to see how much the students achieved in such a short time and how the research opened up new perspectives on climate change, nuclear testing and international law,” she said.
The visit was supported by Flinders Law School, College Dean Professor Tania Leiman, and the College of Business, Creative Arts, Law and Social Sciences, led by Professor Michael Gilding.
The collaboration highlights the growing engagement between Flinders Law School and Harvard Law School, with both institutions committed to strengthening international research partnerships and providing students with meaningful global learning experiences.
