Global Counsel is seeking a Research Analyst to join our Brussels office for a six-month internship, with the possibility of extending to 12 months. The role provides an opportunity to contribute to GC’s internal policy research and analysis, with a focus on EU economic policy and regulatory affairs.

The successful candidate will work across a range of mandates for multinational firms and investors as our clients assess risks and opportunities as they develop and implement engagement strategies across different industries, including trade, energy, and financial services. This will include understanding and mapping the emerging decision-making processes and institutional frameworks that will shape economic policy in the new cycle, such as on the Clean Industrial Deal or the Savings and Investment Union.

The role is therefore an opportunity to further develop expertise at the interface between business, politics and regulators while helping to develop GC’s expertise and insights. It is ideal for someone looking to build a career in a public or private institution involved in EU policymaking, with an interest in international business.

Examples of GC work in this area can be found in the analysis and blog sections of our website.

Role & Responsibilities

• Monitoring and advising on the evidence base, decision-making processes, and strategic outlook for key policy agendas.
• Rapidly reviewing and analysing new EU initiatives, appointments, and policy developments to assess their real-world business implications, including areas of tension or alignment between national governments and EU institutions.
• Mapping key stakeholders across the Commission, Parliament, Council, and regulatory agencies, providing concise briefings on their priorities, interests, and opportunities for engagement.
• Supporting business development through in-depth research on potential clients, their strategic objectives, and exposure to policymaking, while also contributing to thought leadership initiatives.
• Provide research support for internal discussions on cross-industry policy themes, communicating insights clearly and objectively.
• Attend external events to gather intelligence, expand professional networks, and provide informed guidance to clients.

Skills & Profile

• Some prior experience in a trade association, public affairs agency, regulatory or legislative body, or supervisory authority is strongly preferred.
• Bachelor or Master degree in political science, economics, international relations, law, or a related field.
• Fluency in English, and an additional European language skill, is required to apply.
• Strong interest in EU economic policymaking, with a particular focus on trade, energy, and financial services.
• Excellent research, analytical and written communication skills.
• Ability to synthesise complex policy information into concise and structured insights.
• A highly motivated self-starter who works well independently and as part of a team.
• Comfort in using core software for data interpretation and visualisation, including Microsoft Office tools such as Excel, PowerPoint and Co-Pilot.

Internship Details

• Location: Brussels (in-office presence required, with possibility of remote working).
• Duration: Six months, with the possibility of extending to 12 months.
• Compensation: Salary and other benefits are competitive and dependent on experience.
• Start Date: To be confirmed based on candidate availability.