Dr. Susan Biniaz

Assistant Professor

Build a Statement of Purpose

Generate a tailored SOP for Dr. Susan Biniaz. Improve your application with a focused, well-structured draft.

Biography

Susan Biniaz is a Lecturer at Columbia Law School, with a rich background in law and international relations. She began her career in the legal adviser's office at the State Department in 1984, where she focused on climate change negotiations starting in 1989. Throughout her career, Biniaz has handled legal issues related to the Middle East, diplomatic law, outer space, and environmental scientific affairs. She has worked in various capacities, including heading the legal office for European Affairs and leading the Oceans, Environment, and Science legal office for several years. Biniaz also served as a deputy legal adviser, where she supervised treaty office issues concerning the law of the sea, human rights, and piracy off the coast of Somalia, alongside matters of law enforcement and private international law. In addition to her practical experience, Biniaz clerked for Judge Dorothy W. Nelson at the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, contributing to her extensive legal expertise. She earned her J.D. from Columbia Law School after completing her undergraduate studies at Yale College.

Research Interests

Experience

Legal Adviser

— Present

U.S. Department of State • Washington, D.C.

Principal lawyer in climate change negotiations and various legal issues.

Deputy Legal Adviser

— Present

U.S. Department of State • Washington, D.C.

Supervised treaty office issues related to international law.

Requirements for Columbia Law School

Bachelor Program
Requirements
GRE General
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution or equivalent
Application Checklist
  • LSAC CAS Registration
  • Application Form
  • Application Fee ($85)
  • Academic Transcripts
  • LSAT or GRE Scores
  • Two Letters of Recommendation
  • Résumé
  • Personal Statement
  • Dean's Appraisal/Certification
Specialization Notes

Juris Doctor (J.D.) program. While 'Department of Law' is not a formal administrative division for admissions, this entry covers the primary J.D. program.