Senior Researcher ‘Just Transition/Foresight’ (m/f/x)

Senior Researcher ‘Just Transition/Foresight’ (m/f/x)

ETUI - European Trade Union Institute

Brussels, Belgium

From € 6195 per month gross

Status: Full-time – Permanent
Department: Foresight Unit
Application Deadline: 1^st September 2026
Estimated starting date: January 2027

ABOUT THE ETUI

The ETUI provides research and training support to the European trade union movement. The Brussels-based Institute conducts research into European issues of strategic importance for the world of labour and promotes education and training activities with the aim of enhancing the capacity of workers’ organisations to contribute to social dialogue and building a social Europe.

ABOUT THE POSITION

The ETUI is seeking a senior researcher, ideally with team-leading experience, to join our staff. Working within a dynamic, international environment, you will be responsible for conducting research into future-oriented topics of relevance for the world of work, in particular Just Transition.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conducting own empirical research into future-oriented topics of relevance for the European trade unions and policymakers, in particular Just Transition and the economic, employment and social implications of structural transformations, be they technology or policy-driven;
• Communicating research findings to diverse audiences (academia, trade unions, policymakers, media);
• Contribute to the conception and coordination of the ETUI’s work programme in the area of foresight/just transition and monitor progress of the work programme in this area.

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS REQUIRED

• A PhD in a relevant social science discipline (economics, political economy, sociology, political science);
• Strong quantitative skills;
• Familiarity with foresight and scenario-building methodologies;
• Proven research excellence;
• Ability to communicate complex material to different audiences;
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work in a multilingual and multicultural environment.

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

• At least 7 years’ relevant experience; experience in a non-profit or international organisation with a research focus is an asset;
• Proficiency in relevant econometric/data software and standard ICT tools (MS Office 365, including SharePoint and Teams);
• Project-management experience is essential and team-leading experience an asset;
• Excellent command of English; French and other languages are a significant asset;
• Knowledge of European Union institutions and of the trade union movement is a distinct advantage;
• Experience of working in a politically sensitive environment is an advantage.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

The ETUI offers a challenging role in a dynamic environment that bridges academic research and European policymaking. We provide a competitive salary and an attractive benefits package in line with qualifications and experience. The ETUI is an equal opportunities employer.

Starting salary for Category A2 is €6195 gross per month (based on full-time employment).

In accordance with the ETUI’s internal policy, this role allows for a maximum of 10 days of remote work per month (pro-rata for part-time staff).

HOW TO APPLY

Please address your application (CV, motivation letter, supporting documents) to Andrew Watt, General director at vacancy@etui.org by 1 September 2026.

We appreciate the interest of all applicants; however, please note that only shortlisted candidates will be formally contacted to proceed to the next stage (written assignment and panel interview in September 2026). We thank you for your understanding and for your interest in the ETUI.

GDPR: The ETUI processes your personal data for recruitment purposes in accordance with our Internal Recruitment Policy. Your application files will be retained for a maximum of 3 months following the conclusion of the recruitment process, after which they will be permanently deleted.