The European Policy Centre (EPC) invites applications for the Connecting Europe Fellowship, a unique programme designed to bring young professionals from EU enlargement countries into Brussels’ policy conversations. The fellowship supports two researchers in advancing their own policy projects while deepening dialogue on the future of Europe. It aligns with the Thinking Enlarged initiative, which integrates candidate-country perspectives into EU debates.

Host: European Policy Centre (EPC)
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Type: Fully funded 3-month fellowship
Deadline: 4 December 2025

About the Fellowship

Each fellow will spend three months at the EPC in Brussels, conducting an independent research project that links EU enlargement with current policy issues. The programme is open to early- to mid-career professionals from the Western Balkans, Turkey, and the Eastern Neighbourhood.

What the Fellowship Offers

• Two positions (each 3 months, Feb–Dec 2026).
• €2,500 monthly mobility grant plus covered travel to/from Brussels.
• Opportunity to develop and publish a policy-oriented research paper.
• Integration into EPC programmes and exposure to EU-level debates.
• Access to Brussels policymakers, networks, and civil society.
• Workspace at EPC and support in research, fieldwork, and publication.
• Peer learning, mentorship, and long-term engagement.

Who Can Apply

• Early to mid-career professionals (min. 1 year experience) in think tanks, universities, NGOs, or civil society.
• Nationals/residents of eligible EU enlargement countries: Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Georgia, Kosovo, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Turkey, Ukraine.
• Strong interest in European affairs and enlargement-related issues.
• Master’s degree required; relevant fields include political science, EU studies, law, economics, etc.
• Excellent written and spoken English.

Project Focus Areas

Applicants should propose research that links EU policy with enlargement. Priority themes include:

• Rule of law & democratic resilience
• Green Deal & climate alignment
• Digital governance & cybersecurity
• Foreign policy & strategic alignment

The final output must be a policy paper with practical recommendations for both the EU and the fellow’s home region.

How to Apply

Submit one PDF to cv@epc.eu by 4 December 2025 containing:

1. CV (max 2 pages) + publication list
2. Project proposal (max 1,000 words)
3. Motivation letter
4. Preferred fellowship period (3 months between Feb–Dec 2026)

Email subject and file name:
CEFE_FirstName_LastName
(Applications not following this format will not be considered.)

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview.

For more information click HERE

About Connecting Europe

Connecting Europe is an EPC project funded by Stiftung Mercator. It links civil society with EU institutions and fosters cross-border policy engagement. The network includes 65+ organisations across Europe, focusing on democracy, enlargement, climate, digital transformation, and foreign policy.