European Parliament History Service

The European Parliament's Directorate-General for Parliamentary Research Services (DG EPRS) provides comprehensive research and analytical support to the Members of the European Parliament, its parliamentary committees and the European Parliament as a whole. The EPRS philosophy is to provide independent, objective and authoritative information.

More than 300 staff work in the DG's 25 units and services.  

More information about EPRS is available here:

• https://youtu.be/sMBLKXKhOhE?si=W7_bKixnb382sEq4
• https://epthinktank.eu/2025/04/07/apply-for-a-robert-schuman-traineeship-in-the-eprs/

Why choose a traineeship at DG EPRS?   

'Empowering through knowledge' is the guiding principle of EPRS. As an EPRS trainee, you will be exposed to the core of the research and analysis process in the European Parliament. Surrounded by colleagues working on publications covering a wide range of EU policies, you will gain detailed knowledge of the EP's workings while honing your skills in your specific topic of interest. If you choose a traineeship in one of EPRS's library units, you will help the parliamentary community find the resources they need for their work.   

The European Parliament History Service (HIST) has three full-time staff, with one Head of Service. We conduct and commission research on the European Parliament, and publish studies, briefings, and historical introductions to other units' publications. We also answer questions asked by the parliamentary community on the history of the Parliament.

You will be fully involved in the activities of HIST. Depending on your background and qualifications, especially your knowledge of the history of the European Parliament and experience with archival research, you will conduct your own research and produce at least one publication; retrieve and analyse literature and archival sources; support the editing of manuscripts; and fulfil other administrative tasks. All in close collaboration with the colleagues of the Service.

You have a strong academic background in the European Parliament, ideally in historical perspective, and at least some experience with archival research. Excellent written as well as spoken English and editing experience would be valuable assets, as would be reading skills in other EU languages (esp. French and German). Applications by PhD students or advanced MA students with a focus on the history of the Parliament are especially welcome. A strong interest in this theme and willingness to engage with relevant literature and sources are in any case required.

The European Parliament is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. We welcome all candidates, regardless of their geographical, racial or ethnic origin, political or religious beliefs, age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, civil status, or family situation.