Cornelis J.W. (Jaap) Baaij is an interdisciplinary scholar specializing in the use of contract law to address social issues. He holds dual doctoral degrees from Yale Law School (JSD in contract law & arbitration) and the University of Amsterdam (PhD in European contract law, cum laude).

Jaap's research explores the critical role of contracts and contract law in driving positive change. At the Montaigne Center for the Rule of Law and Justice, his research focuses on enhancing sustainability in global trade through commercial contracts and empowering consumers in the energy transition through contract design. His approach blends legal theory with quantitative research, political theory, social sciences, and philosophy of language.

Jaap teaches in Europe and the United States, covering topics ranging from contract law and private law theory to commercial arbitration and corporate social responsibility. He has held research positions at institutions such as Columbia Law School, the National University of Singapore, and Queen Mary University of London and has been a guest lecturer at Georgetown, Yale, and Princeton, among others.

Jaap's academic articles have appeared in journals such as the Harvard International Law Journal and King's Law Journal. His books have been published by Oxford University Press and Kluwer Law International.