Academic Networks Unit

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 

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.    

Academic research and knowledge gathering: 

• Conduct literature reviews and background research on EU policy and institutional issues;
• Identify relevant academic research, expertise and emerging findings;
• Analyse and synthesise complex academic and policy material;
• Identify key insights from research, expert discussions and academic events;
• Prepare concise analytical outputs based on research findings. 

Academic networks and stakeholder engagement: 

• Identify and engage with academics, researchers and other experts relevant to the Unit's work; 
• Support the development and maintenance of networks between Parliament and universities/research institutions; 
• Engage with external stakeholders and partners in academic and policy communities; 
• Monitor relevant activities and events organised by universities, research institutions and other expert organisations. 

Research–policy interface: 

• Help translate academic knowledge into accessible and policy-relevant outputs;
• Support activities designed to strengthen cooperation between researchers and policymakers; 
• Identify relevant expertise and research for specific parliamentary needs. 

Drafting and editorial work:

• Draft and edit research and policy documents, including policy briefs; 
• Prepare summaries, notes and other concise analytical material;
• Ensure that complex research findings are communicated clearly to non-specialist audiences.

Events, workshops and academic cooperation: 

• Help organise and coordinate workshops, seminars and other events involving academic and policy stakeholders;
• Coordinate activities with universities and external research partners.

The trainee in the Academic Networks Unit (RESA) will contribute to developing and managing links between the European Parliament and the academic community, helping to identify and mobilise relevant expertise for parliamentary research and policymaking.

• You have obtained/will obtain a university degree (level 6 of EQF or higher) at least three months before the starting date of the traineeship;
• The ideal candidate should combine research and analytical skills with experience in network-building, stakeholder engagement, communication and project coordination;
• The traineeship will provide practical experience of how research and expertise can be identified, assessed and translated into useful inputs for parliamentary decision-making.

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.