Today’s interview is with Astghik Grigoryan, Analyst with the Global Legal Research Directorate.

Describe your background.

I was born and raised in Armenia, back when Armenia was part of the Soviet Union. My graduation from high school and first years at university coincided with the events that changed the entire world. I experienced the collapse of the Soviet Union, a devastating earthquake, and war. These experiences played a major role in forming my character and making decisions concerning future professional endeavors.

Wha t is your academic/professional history?

I hold an LLM in Comparative Constitutional Law from Central European University (Budapest, Hungary), an MA in Political Science and International Relations from American University of Armenia, and a BA and MA in History from Yerevan State University. I had been working in the area of legal and judicial reform in countries of the former Soviet Union and those of Central and Eastern Europe for over 15 years. My professional assignments were with the World Bank, the Government of Armenia, USAID contractors, UN, and other major bilateral and multilateral international development organizations. I have also worked for the private sector in various consulting capacities.

How would you describe your job (or research project) to other people?

I work as a Legal Research Analyst. I conduct legal research on a variety of legal topics in all areas of law for over 30 jurisdictions. I respond to research inquiries from members of Congress, federal government agencies, and the judiciary, as well as the general public.

Why did you want to work at the Law Library?

After reading the Law Library’s job announcement, I was very excited, as it was a perfect fit for my professional and personal qualities.  It is an incredible honor for me to work for the premier research and learning institution and to have access to its vast resources (both physical and human).

What is the most interesting fact you have learned about the Law Library of Congress?

I realized how fast-paced and contemporary the work is at the Law Library of Congress. Our research focuses on the most acute legal issues of our time. Sometimes the Law Library of Congress is the first institution to address these topics. I am also impressed with and humbled by my colleagues. They are the most accomplished individuals with diverse set of skills and experiences. There definitely is a lot to learn from each other.

What is something most of your co-workers do not know about you?

I am a big fan of giant wave surfing. I can watch the surfers fearlessly riding big waves with great admiration for their courage and respect for the forces of nature.