ECSO news, Policy analysis

Traineeship Opportunity: Join the Policy Analysis and Outreach Stream This Spring!

11/09/2026

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled trainee to join the ECSO Policy Analysis and Outreach Stream.

This role will cover EU cybersecurity policies, including NIS2 Directive, Cyber Resilience Act, and Cybersecurity Act. Specific project activities may include supply chain and risk management. Additional social science research may take place based on project needs.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone with a keen interest in both public policy, international relations, and cybersecurity.

Please note that this position is exclusively for students earning credits or fulfilling coursework requirements.

It is run through university-funded programmes, such as Erasmus+. Please get in contact with your university first to inquire about all specifics. Apply ONLY once you have collected the corresponding information and received confirmation.

Responsibilities

Monitor EU cybersecurity policy developments and their implementation
Conduct desk research on specific cybersecurity topics and policy implementation, conduct analysis, and prepare relevant deliverables
Organise events on EU cybersecurity policies material, both substantively and logistically
Draft concept notes, meeting minutes, and other dissemination material

Must have

Policy and cybersecurity skills

Understanding of the functioning of the European institutions
Understanding of the most relevant actors in cybersecurity at the EU level, their role, and the relation between them
Understanding of the most relevant EU cybersecurity policies
Basic understanding of cybersecurity concepts and frameworks
Willingness to learn about technical aspects

Analytical skills

Qualitative analysis skills
Ability to synthesize complex information and present it clearly and concisely

Communication skills

Excellent professional writing skills

Project Management

Excellent attention to details
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Proactive, flexible and reliable attitude

Language skills

Oral English proficiency is mandatory

What to expect

Employment type

Full-time position

Duration

Between 4 and 6 months

Work location

Hybrid and Flexible mode: 3 days per week in Brussels required

Development

Mentorship sessions and tailored feedback

Substantive work

Plenty of learning opportunities, working on content-based projects

Who is this position for?

If you are into policymaking, tech and security issues; you enjoy research and analysis; and you like to get things done… This role is for you!

Application process

Please send your application to [email protected] including the following:
Subject line “Trainee, Policy Analysis and Outreach Stream – Spring 26”
LinkedIn profile
A one-slide presentation outlining your motivation to work specifically at the intersection of cybersecurity and public policy, and highlighting what distinguishes you from other candidates.
Earliest available start dateApplications that do not include all required materials may not be considered.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview, when they will be asked to present the slide submitted in a maximum of two minutes. Further questions will follow.

AI Notice: You are encouraged to utilise AI tools to enhance and streamline your application. However, please be aware that careless use of AI or submitting entirely AI-generated samples will result in direct disqualification from the application process.

Work Permit: Applicants must have the right to legally work in the EU.

Please note that this position is exclusively for students earning credits or fulfilling coursework requirements.

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European Cyber Security Organisation