If you are passionate about energy, climate, and EU policy, this internship at CEPS in Brussels offers a rare chance to do real research at one of the world's top think tanks. Joining the Energy, Resources and Climate Change team, you will contribute to research projects on energy markets, renewables, and the low-carbon transition, working alongside experienced researchers.
About the Organisation
Founded in Brussels in 1983, CEPS (Centre for European Policy Studies) is a leading think tank and forum for debate on EU affairs, consistently ranked among the world's top 10 think tanks. It is distinguished by its strong in-house research capacity and an extensive international network of partner institutes. The Energy, Resources and Climate Change (ERCC) unit is a research team specialised in today's energy, circular economy, climate change, and geopolitical challenges.
Main Tasks
You will join the ERCC team under the supervision of the Head of Energy Programme and contribute to the Energy Programme's activities:
🔬 Contribute primarily to research projects within the scope of the Energy Programme
📊 Conduct desk research, assist with data collection and daily research support, help prepare and conduct interviews, and summarise findings from interviews and meetings in writing
🗂️ Perform other related tasks, including administrative and organisational support for the Energy Programme
Background and Qualifications
🎓 About to complete a Master's in economics, international relations, political/social sciences, engineering, or a relevant field, and enrolled as a student at an EU-based university for the full duration of the internship
📄 For recent graduates, the CIP (convention d'immersion professionnelle) scheme may be considered, subject to eligibility and the right to work in Belgium
⚡ A demonstrable interest in energy topics such as energy markets (electricity and gas), energy security and infrastructure, low-carbon and renewable technologies (wind, solar, nuclear, hydropower, geothermal), electricity grids, low-carbon gases (hydrogen and biomethane), CO₂ storage, natural gas, and methane emissions, with related research assignments during your studies or previous internships
🗣️ An excellent command of English, orally and in writing
Your Profile
🤝 Able to work in a research team of junior and senior colleagues, enjoying teamwork and open to feedback
🗂️ Flexible, organised, and respectful of deadlines
🌈 Absolute respect for diversity and an inclusion-oriented mindset
✨ Enthusiastic to contribute to the success of CEPS as a whole
What CEPS Offers
📆 A full-time, 6-month internship starting September/October 2026, based in Brussels and in-person, with some teleworking possible for a limited period
💶 Expense reimbursement of up to 850 EUR per month for students, or a CIP allowance of 1,200 EUR per month for eligible recent graduates
🛂 Candidates must be legally entitled to undertake an internship in Belgium for the full duration
How to Apply
Submit your application as a single PDF in English, including a one-page motivation letter (explaining your interest and confirming your availability to start in September/October 2026 and relocate to Brussels), your CV (indicating your university enrolment and/or right to work in Belgium), and two written work examples in relevant fields. Use the subject line "Intern Energy Programme September 2026". Incomplete or incorrectly formatted applications will not be considered, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Deadline
12 July 2026, 23:59 CET
Links
🔗 Apply by email: internship.erc@ceps.eu
🔗 Full vacancy: https://cdn.ceps.eu/2026/07/Job-Advert-Intern_ERCC_Energy_July2026.pdf
