EFSA offers paid traineeships to talented, highly qualified young professionals at the start of their careers, in a field of their choice. It is an opportunity for them to have their first professional experience related to their field of specialisation in a European organisation committed to assessing food and feed safety in Europe.

We welcome applications from nationals of EU Member States, EFTA countries, and of countries benefiting from the EU pre-accession programme. A limited number of nationals of non-Member States are also accepted according to available resources and in accordance with the operational priorities of EFSA.

Traineeships

EFSA’s Traineeship Programme offers a unique opportunity for young professionals to join a team of professionals from all over the world working together in a stimulating, dynamic and multicultural environment, and contributing to ensuring safe food and sustainable food systems through transparent, independent and trustworthy scientific advice. 

Every year between March and April, we publish around 100 traineeship opportunities for motivated young talents from different academic and professional backgrounds (scientists, communication and legal professionals, IT experts, etc.).  

Discover everything you need to know about the programme and the selection process on this page. Your all-round experience in an EU Agency starts with EFSA!  

Under the supervision of a traineeship adviser within an assigned unit and team, a trainee, within a period of 5 to 12 months, will: 

• get first-hand experience of the work of a European Union (EU) Agency 
• develop new competencies and skills in line with personal interests and career goals 
• contribute to inspiring projects and specific activities with innovative ideas and solutions 

Who can apply

To be eligible you must fulfil the following requirements on the closing date for applications: 

1. Have already obtained a university degree of at least 3 years by the closing date for applications 
2. Have a good knowledge of English (minimum level: B2 according to CEFR) 
3. Have never been an EFSA trainee or employed by EFSA in any capacity, receiving any sort of remuneration 
4. Meet the character requirements needed for the duties involved (e.g. a sworn affidavit to the effect that you have no criminal record) 

What we offer

• A unique professional experience as part of a team of scientists and/or business professionals from all over the world, working together on inspiring projects in a multicultural environment 
• An opportunity to get a taste of what an EU career is all about for an extended period (12 months) 
• Exposure to different areas and networks in EFSA’s remit, while developing personal and professional competencies 
• A mentoring/advising relationship: as a trainee you will have an adviser who will be your main point of contact and will be responsible for the overall coordination of your traineeship 
• A modern working environment with flexible working arrangements to help balance your professional and personal lives 
• A monthly grant of €1,463 

For further information here