Internship Opportunity: European Policy & Innovation at the ECIU Brussels Office 2026/2027

The European Consortium of Innovative Universities (ECIU) is looking for a motivated and curious intern to support our representation and policy work in Brussels. This internship offers a unique opportunity to dive into the heart of EU policymaking, contribute to shaping the future of European higher education, and become part of an inspiring international network.

As an intern, you will follow EU level developments, identify strategic opportunities for ECIU’s member universities, and help translate complex processes into clear insights for our community. You will also support our engagement with policymakers, stakeholders, and partners across Europe, helping us strengthen ECIU’s role as an influential voice in the EU policy landscape.

You will be based in Brussels and work closely with both the ECIU colleagues as well as the team of FOREU4ALL. FOREU4ALL is an exciting project that brings together all 65 European University Alliances, coordinated by ECIU.

Together with a team of three colleagues, you will co-shape your learning trajectory, tailoring the internship to your academic background, career interests, and personal development goals. The internship offers a rich training ground for developing professional competencies and expanding your European network.

Your tasks

As part of the Brussels Office, you will contribute to a wide range of activities, including:

• Conducting research, analysis, and communication tasks for internal and external audiences.
• Representing ECIU at conferences, seminars, and policy meetings in Brussels to amplify the networks visibility and identify strategic opportunities.
• Monitoring EU policy developments, especially in higher education, research, and innovation on legislative shifts and upcoming funding opportunities
• Supporting information flows between the Brussels Office and ECIU member universities to generate high-impact content, ensuring that our community is informed, engaged, and ready to act on new EU initiatives.
• Collaborating closely with colleagues involved in the FOREU4ALL project to align policy advocacy efforts and advance the project’s strategic goals within the Brussels policy ecosystem.
• Assisting with office operations, including planning and hosting meetings, events, and stakeholder visits.

Your profile

We are looking for someone who is:

• Preferably a Master’s student enrolled at one of ECIU’s member universities;
• Interested in and knowledgeable about European politics and policymaking;
• Fluent in English, both spoken and written;
• Thorough, well-organised, and comfortable taking initiative and responsibility;
• Equipped with strong interpersonal skills and confident communicating in professional settings.

About ECIU and the Brussels office

The ECIU is a dynamic network of 13 entrepreneurial, forward-looking universities across Europe with one associated partner in Mexico. Since 1997, ECIU has collaborated on innovative education, research, entrepreneurship, and partnerships with industry and society. In 2019, ECIU launched one of the first European Universities under Erasmus+, pioneering a challenge-based approach to education.

The Brussels Office represents ECIU towards EU institutions and stakeholders. The work focuses on EU policies on education, research, and innovation, including Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe. ECIU also coordinates FOREU4ALL, which unites all 65 European University Alliances into a single, cohesive structure to strengthen their collective voice.

The office is centrally located at Rue du Luxembourg and shares a building with other European organisations, creating an excellent environment for networking with fellow interns and professionals.

Terms of employment

• Monthly allowance of €600;
• Travel expenses at the start and end of the internship are covered;
• Possibility to apply for an Erasmus+ traineeship grant;
• Internship duration:
  ‍– September 2026 – February 2027 (5 months)
  ‍– February-July 2027 (5 months)
  – September 2026- July 2027 (10 months).

ECIU is committed to equality and diversity as drivers of innovation. We warmly encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Diversity and inclusion will be an important consideration in the selection process.

How to apply

Upload your CV, motivation letter, and an indication of your preferred internship duration (5 / 10 months) here or use the button below. We are looking forward to your application!