The EPC is looking for a Programme Assistant (equivalent to a paid traineeship) to join its Europe’s Political Economy Programme for a period of 6 months, with the option to extend for an additional six months depending on performance and mutual interest, starting on 31 August 2026 (date to be confirmed). 

This entry-level position is open exclusively to graduates. Students who are still enrolled in a degree programme, on a gap year, or seeking an internship as part of their curriculum are not eligible to apply. 

The successful candidate should have demonstrated knowledge of and interest in EU economic policies (e.g. economic governance, the Single Market, digital policy, industrial policy, or trade and economic security), acquired through prior internships or academic coursework. They should have a solid academic background, an interest in organising events, and experience in conducting desk research on various topics related to EU policies. Ideally, they will also have a good understanding of EU institutions and decision-making processes. 

The candidate should have the following profile: 

• Strong interest in and demonstrated knowledge of EU economic policies and European affairs; 

• Good organisational and time management skills; 

• Self-disciplined, able to work both independently and in a multinational team; 

• Dynamic, flexible, reliable, and attentive to details; 

• Undergraduate or graduate degree in economics, political science or law; 

• Excellent analytical and writing skills; 

• Previous relevant work experience in organising events and research assistance (internship or student experience would suffice) would be a plus; 

• Good presentation skills; 

• Excellent English language skills (oral and written); additional languages are a plus;

Main duties: 

• Supporting EPC analysts in organising events (including drafting event proposals, invitations and programmes, contacting speakers, and assisting during events). The role will involve a particularly intensive period of work in preparation for the EPC’s annual flagship Brussels Economic Security Forum Summit, with the next edition taking place in spring 2027. Should the position be extended beyond the initial six-month period, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to contribute significantly to the organisation of this large-scale forum during the first semester of 2027.  

• Background research, analysis of data, and support in writing publications; 

• Contributing to policy monitoring with an eye to developing a strong understanding of EU policymaking processes; 

• Support in writing project and funding proposals, as needed. 

All EPC programme assistants are offered a CIP contract (“convention d’immersion professionnelle”), with a monthly stipend of €1,175, and are normally expected to be based in Brussels or in a location with easy access to Brussels. 

Deadline: 29 July, 23:59 CET. Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis. 

To apply 

Please submit a CV that does not exceed 1 page, a motivation letter that does not exceed 600 words, a signed reference letter (with organisational letterhead), and the following written exercise. 

• Write a To the Point publication on a topic of your choice that is broadly linked to the EPE programme description 

All applications should be addressed to Emma Woodford, Chief Operating Officer and sent using the form below. All documents should include TYPE (CV, letter, reference or Test) + YOUR NAME + EPEAssistant in the subject heading.   If there is an issue with the form, please send the required documents to cv@epc.eu 

Due to the expected high number of applications, we can only contact shortlisted candidates. If you do not hear from us by the end of July, your application has not been shortlisted. Please continue to keep an eye on our website for future opportunities. 

The EPC is an equal opportunities employer. We value diversity and particularly encourage applicants from sectors of society that are underrepresented in the organisation.  

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