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JRC Scientific Traineeships 2026-2027: Paid EU Research Placements

The JRC Scientific Traineeships Programme offers paid 5-month research placements for recent graduates at the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission. Trainees receive a monthly allowance of €1,338.20 to €1,741.20 and gain hands-on experience in EU policy and scientific research environments.

October 12, 2026 ⏰ Deadline: Oct 28, 2026

Quick Overview

Host CountryBelgium, Italy, Germany, Netherlands, Spain
University/OrgJoint Research Centre (JRC), European Commission
Degree LevelBachelor, Recent Graduate
Funding TypeFully Funded
Fields of StudyApplied Sciences, EU Policy, Scientific Research
DeadlineOctober 28, 2026

Scholarship Overview

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What Are JRC Scientific Traineeships?

The JRC Scientific Traineeships Programme is a recruitment initiative by the Joint Research Centre (JRC) of the European Commission. It provides recent university graduates with practical work experience at the heart of EU research and policy development. Trainees work within JRC units across five European locations, contributing to scientific projects that directly support EU policymaking.

The programme runs two sessions annually, each lasting five months. The March 2027 session is currently open for applications.

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Financial Support and Benefits

JRC Scientific Traineeships are paid positions. The basic monthly allowance for 2026 ranges from:

  • €1,338.20 to €1,741.20, depending on the correction coefficient of the specific JRC site

This allowance supports living expenses during the traineeship period. The programme also offers:

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  • Hands-on professional experience in EU research environments
  • Exposure to multicultural, multilingual workplaces
  • Networking opportunities with researchers and policymakers
  • On-site placement with limited teleworking arrangements available

Eligibility Requirements

The programme is open to applicants who meet the following criteria:

  • Education: Recent university graduates who have completed at least a standard 3-year higher education degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent)
  • Citizenship: EU citizens or nationals of countries associated with the Research Framework Programme
  • Background: Scientific background relevant to the assigned project

Note for African applicants: The programme specifically requires EU citizenship or association agreement country nationality. Applicants from Zimbabwe and other SADC countries without EU citizenship or association status are not eligible unless they hold dual citizenship qualifying under these rules.

Traineeship Locations

Traineeships take place at one of five JRC sites. Candidates indicate their preferences during application:

  • Geel, Belgium
  • Ispra, Italy
  • Karlsruhe, Germany
  • Petten, the Netherlands
  • Seville, Spain

Placements are primarily on-site, with limited teleworking options depending on the specific role and unit.

Application Timeline

The JRC recruits trainees twice yearly:

  • Autumn call: For traineeships starting in March
  • Spring call: For traineeships starting in October

Current deadline: Applications for the March 2027 session close on Wednesday, 28 October 2026.

Spontaneous applications outside official call periods are not accepted.

How to Apply

Follow these steps to submit your application:

  1. Visit the official JRC Recruitment Portal at recruitment.jrc.ec.europa.eu
  2. Locate the call titled “Call for Scientific Traineeships – March 2027 session”
  3. Download and read the official vacancy notice to confirm eligibility and requirements
  4. Prepare all requested information and supporting documents according to call instructions
  5. Log in to the recruitment portal and complete the online application
  6. Validate and submit before the deadline, ensuring all information is correct

Important: Applications must go through the official portal. Email submissions are not accepted.

Key Rules and Restrictions

  • No post-deadline changes: After the deadline, you cannot modify your application or submit additional documents
  • No email applications: Spontaneous or email applications are rejected
  • One active application: Apply only through official calls during open periods
  • Document accuracy: Ensure all submitted information is correct before final submission

Where to Find Official Information

All official documents, including the full vacancy notice and programme rules, are available on the JRC Recruitment Portal. This is the only authoritative source for application details, eligibility criteria, and contact information.

Apply on the official site →

You apply directly with the provider. We never charge for applications or ask for payment details. How we verify scholarships

Funding Coverage

Monthly allowance €1,338.20–€1,741.20 depending on site location

Eligibility Criteria

Recent graduates with minimum 3-year Bachelor's degree; EU citizens or nationals of countries associated with the Research Framework Programme

Required Documents

As specified in official vacancy notice; typically includes CV, degree certificate, and supporting documents per call instructions

Application Process

1) Visit recruitment.jrc.ec.europa.eu, 2) Locate March 2027 call, 3) Download and read vacancy notice, 4) Prepare documents, 5) Complete online application via portal, 6) Submit before deadline
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You will be redirected to the official scholarship application page.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. The programme is restricted to EU citizens and nationals of countries associated with the Research Framework Programme. Unless you hold dual citizenship qualifying under these rules, applicants from Zimbabwe and most SADC countries are not eligible.
The basic monthly allowance for 2026 ranges from €1,338.20 to €1,741.20, depending on the correction coefficient of your assigned JRC site. This is a gross amount before any applicable deductions.
You cannot apply for the March 2027 session. The JRC does not accept late applications, email submissions, or spontaneous applications outside official call periods. You must wait for the next call, typically published in spring 2027 for October 2027 placements.
Required documents are specified in each call's official vacancy notice. Typically these include your CV, proof of completed degree, and other supporting materials. Check the specific call instructions on the JRC Recruitment Portal, as requirements may vary by position.
Traineeships are primarily on-site at one of five locations: Geel (Belgium), Ispra (Italy), Karlsruhe (Germany), Petten (Netherlands), or Seville (Spain). You indicate site preferences during application. Limited teleworking arrangements may be available depending on your specific role and unit.
The JRC does not publish selection rates. Success depends on matching your scientific background to specific project needs, completeness of your application, and alignment with eligibility criteria. Ensure you follow all instructions precisely, submit before the deadline, and clearly demonstrate relevant skills and qualifications in your application.