RAND Europe is a not-for-profit policy research organisation. Our mission is to help improve policy- and decision-making through evidence-based research and analysis. We realise our mission by undertaking objective, balanced and relevant research, sharing the insights and information widely, and working in partnership with a range of clients and collaborators.

RAND Europe has offices in Cambridge and Brussels, and employs approximately 140 researchers: just over half of our research staff have doctorates with the balance holding other post-graduate degrees. Our work lies on the continuum between that of universities and consultancies, combining the academic rigour of universities and the professional, task orientated approach of consultancies. In addition to our strong ethos of evidence-based research, RAND Europe is a values-driven organisation, and our experience shows that our most successful researchers closely align their behaviours with our value set.

Our Brussels office hosts 14 members of staff and is primarily involved in research, business development and outreach for the EU institutions and other Brussels based organisations. The traineeship is designed to offer exposure to the various activities of a policy research institute, with a focus on its activities with clients in the Netherlands and Belgium. The assignment is an ideal transition for recent university graduates into the practical insights of policy research and policy making. This experience will provide valuable insights and useful contacts for your future career.

You will be expected to support research staff in coordinating research projects, preparing research proposals (by drafting policy backgrounds on various topics), conducting desk research, monitoring and reporting on policy debates, attending and reporting on workshops, generally facilitating RAND Europe’s outreach in the Netherlands and Brussels. Your tasks will also include maintaining and help managing the office, for instance by receiving guests.

You will have an outstanding academic record (Master’s degree or equivalent) and proven writing skills, a keen interest in (policy) research, familiarity with basic research principles and research methods, and an interest and familiarity with with RAND Europe’s research in one or more of the following areas: criminal justice, illegal markets, home affairs, (national) security, migration, and violent extremism.

Knowledge of EU policy making and the policy context in the Netherlands is an asset. The role is suited to a recent graduate with an interest in gaining experience in policy research, although we equally welcome applicants with diverse work experience.

You will also be organised, willing to take initiative and a good team player. They will be proficient in computer office applications (at least MS Word, PowerPoint and Excel). Finally, fluency in Dutch and English is an absolute requirement.

If you feel that you have the qualities to be a part of our team please submit an application via the RAND Europe Recruitment. You will need to submit a CV and covering letter in English. Please also note that your CV and covering letter will need to be submitted as one Pdf document. Applications which do not comply with these requirements will not be considered.

The closing date for this position is 16 June 2023.

It is essential that applicants already have the right to work in Belgium.

Start date: ASAP

Duration: 6 months (possibility for extension if approved by Brussels Formation)

Remuneration: €1,300 gross per month