Ecorys is a leading international research and consultancy company addressing society’s key challenges. We combine our deep knowledge of the societal challenges and our extensive skills and expertise to make genuine sustainable change happen.

We offer the full policy cycle to our clients who are decision makers in the public and third sectors. We advise on the options and consequences of change options. We support clients to implement and communicate change and manage the consequences. 

Ecorys is a company with strong European roots and international presence. With own offices in 10 countries, we employ over 600 people working alongside external experts and associates in about 200 locations throughout the world.

Role

We are looking for a motivated and analytically minded trainee to join our Policy and Research unit and to participate in and support impactful work shaping European climate, energy and environmental policy. You will be part of a collaborative team of about 15 people, delivering high-quality studies, evaluations, technical assistance and stakeholder engagement projects for EU institutions.

You will join the Policy and Research Department working on sustainability topics ranging from circular economy and just transition to climate change and energy policies. Ecorys is a research-based consultancy; we deliver studies, evaluations and impact assessments, as well as technical assistance projects, including the management and coordination of European policy networks and stakeholder activities. Our clients are mainly EU institutions.

This traineeship offers a structured learning and professional immersion experience, combining hands-on project support with close supervision and development opportunities. 

What you will do 

Under the guidance of experienced consultants, you will: 

• Contribute to qualitative and quantitative analysis and the preparation of reports (including policy analysis, evaluation and impact assessment for the European Commission); 
• Supporting the delivery of projects and/or specific tasks, including coordination of different activities (research, communication, organisation of events and webinars, etc.);
• Contribute to the preparation of tenders and research proposals, including policy background research, methodological inputs and support with administrative documents;
• Support the design and the implementation of data collection (e.g. literature review, stakeholders mapping, interviews, surveys, workshops, focus groups);
• Support and contribute to Ecorys’ communication and outreach activities, collaborating with other teams, experts, organisations and external stakeholders (attend conferences and workshops, supporting the preparation of presentations). 

 Your profile 

Essential:

• A master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g. environmental sciences, environmental economics, political sciences, EU law, or other sustainability related studies);
• Excellent command of English - additional language would be an asset;
• Strong analytical skills for both qualitative and quantitative analysis 
• Ability to work autonomously on clearly defined tasks, while managing multiple activities and meeting deadlines
• A good knowledge and understanding of the EU institutions functioning and key EU environmental, climate and energy policies;
• Strong team player with a curious mind and eagerness to learn. 

Desirable:

• Initial professional experience or research experience in a relevant field (such as internships, research projects as part of studies, or doctoral research)  
• Fluency in languages other than English (written and spoken);
• Knowledge of evaluation and impact assessment methodologies; 
• Interest in project management and strong organisational skills.

What We Offer  

At Ecorys, you will join an international organisation with highly motivated professionals working on key societal challenges. We provide a stimulating and flexible work environment where your ideas and growth are valued.  

Ecorys offers its trainees a structured, professional, and learning-oriented environment, with opportunities to develop analytical, stakeholder engagement and project management skills. We are socially responsible organisation owned by its employees.

We offer you a full-time position under a 6-month Belgian traineeship contract (CIP). 

Our package also includes:

• The indicative remuneration is 1.450€ per month.
• A homeworking allowance, public transportation subscription reimbursement and meal vouchers.
• 5 vacations days. 
• A degree of freedom and flexibility with hybrid working (up to two days remote per week).
• An open culture that welcomes new ideas and collaboration.  
• Development opportunities through training and knowledge sharing. 
• A modern, collaborative office in Brussels with an informal, social atmosphere.  

As part of our recruitment policy, the intention is to follow up with a Belgian employment contract upon good performance. 

Interested?  

Apply directly via our online application form with your most recent CV (a cover letter is optional) by 5pm 5th March 2026.