Jonathan Liljeblad received a PhD and JD from the University of Southern California (USC), an MS from the University of Washington (UW), and a BS from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). His research largely focuses on the issues in promoting international norms within developing countries, using case studies in indigenous rights, human rights, and environment. His fieldwork is mostly in Southeast Asia, where his studies are supported by organisations such as Asia Development Bank (ADB), Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS), Danish Institute of Human Rights (DIHR), & the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ).

Generally, his research makes interventions in the literature of international law, law & society, rule-of-law, human rights, environmental law, & law & development. Due to the empirical nature of his research, his work connects academia, government, and civil society; seeks interdisciplinary, transboundary, and cross-cultural collaborations; and endeavors to nurture direct impact upon policymakers and societal leaders.

He was born a member of the Pa'Oh indigenous peoples of Shan State, Myanmar, and grew up in Sweden and the United States. He received an Endeavour Research Grant (2018) and was a Fulbright Scholar (2014-2015).