Traineeship – Climate Research, Chief Economist Department

The European Stability Mechanism (ESM) is looking for candidates studying towards (or recent graduates from) a master’s or PhD degree to assist research projects of the Climate Working Group within the Chief Economist Department (CED). ESM traineeships aim to provide talented university students and recent graduates with an opportunity to understand how the ESM works and contribute to its mission.

The CED consists of three divisions: Economic and Market Analysis, Economic Risk Analysis, and Financial Sector and Market Analysis. The department is responsible for economic and financial analysis, policy studies, and country monitoring work. The Climate Working Group is a horizontal team with members from all divisions that is dedicated to developing and implementing the Chief Economist Department’s climate strategy.

PURPOSE OF THE TRAINEESHIP

The trainee would join a horizontal team with members from multiple divisions within CED working on different research projects investigating the economic impact of climate physical risk. The successful candidate would contribute to the extension and deepening of this research effort, especially with regards to compiling and extending the data sets, cleaning and analysing the data, reviewing related literature and helping to develop modelling and econometric approaches.

KEY QUALIFICATIONS

• A candidate (or recent graduate within one year of graduation) for an advanced university degree (Bachelor’s/Master’s) in economics, finance, data science, statistics, climate or a related field. A PhD degree in the same areas of study would be considered an asset.
• Experience in data analysis and empirical research using specialised software (Stata, R, MATLAB, etc.). Experience in working with satellite data would be a plus.

• Knowledge of climate economics and econometrics and climate-economy models would be a strong plus.

• Fluency in English, both oral and written.

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Analytical and technical skills with attention to detail 
• Written and verbal communication skills
• Flexibility and results-orientated approach 
•  Conceptual thinking 
• Problem-solving skills and creativity 
• Positive team spirit and adaptability 
• Intellectual curiosity and eagerness to learn new topics
• Proactive attitude

APPLICATION PROCESS AND PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Deadline for application: 13 August 2026 
• Expected start date: as soon as possible 
• Expected duration: six months, with possibility of extension up to 12 months 
• Competitive allowance granted

The ESM aims to provide equal opportunity to all candidates irrespective of their gender, nationality, age, race, culture, education, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or disability. To further enhance the diversity of our workforce, we particularly encourage talents from under-represented groups to apply.