*Important Information – F4E Traineeship Programme 2026*

The selection process for the 2026 F4E Traineeship Call is expected to be launched in March/April 2026  and envisaged  to start in October 2026.

Are you eager to embark on a journey in a stimulating, multicultural environment? Do you see yourself playing a crucial role in shaping the future of sustainable energy? Are you ready to help Europe become more energy autonomous, resilient, competitive and carbon free? Are you fascinated by Big Science and its business potential? Join F4E and be part of a global effort to unlock the potential of fusion as a clean energy source.

Trainees play a pivotal role in safeguarding the inter-generational dimension of our work in fusion research. By bridging the gap between experienced professionals and the next generation of innovators, trainees ensure the transfer of knowledge, expertise, and passion for fusion energy across time and generations.

F4E’s Traineeship Scheme offers recent graduates the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in technical and support areas while contributing to our groundbreaking projects. As a trainee, you will be part of a dynamic work environment, collaborating with experts, and acquiring skills essential for your professional growth.

F4E is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our work. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. We encourage applications from individuals of all genders, nationalities, and abilities.

As a F4E  trainee, you will have the possibility  to make a meaningful impact on our projects and initiatives. Under the guidance of experienced mentors, you will contribute to the advancement of fusion research while developing your skills and expertise in your chosen field.

Joining F4E means becoming part of a vibrant community dedicated to excellence in fusion research. Whether you’re stationed in Barcelona, Cadarache, or Garching, you’ll enjoy a supportive work environment, competitive benefits, and opportunities for professional development.

Minimum 6 to maximum 12 months, with the possibility of renewal.

F4E provides a monthly grant and a travel allowance to support trainees with expenses incurred at the start and end of the traineeship from their main place of residence.

The selected trainees receive a monthly grant according to the cost-of-living of each location as follows:

• € 1 400 Euros if assigned to Barcelona (Spain)
• € 1 501.96 Euros if assigned to Cadarache (France), and
• € 1 420.53 Euros if assigned to Garching (near Munich, Germany).

The applicable grant will be clearly indicated in the official Traineeship Call when announced on the website and will remain fixed for the duration of the traineeship period.

A fixed amount for travel expenses is paid at the beginning and at the end of the traineeship. In addition, you will enjoy two days of annual leave/month of traineeship contract as well as +/- 18 statutory public holidays per annum.

As an F4E trainee, you have the option to telework from your designated working location, although we do value some in-office time – a minimum of two days per week is mandatory.

In addition, together with other colleagues, you may be requested to travel for work to meet with our stakeholders.

Candidates will undergo a rigorous selection process based on eligibility criteria and competencies. We are committed to ensuring a fair and transparent selection process, with a focus on identifying candidates who demonstrate the potential to excel in their roles and contribute to our mission.

A trainee position is offered based on F4E’s business needs and budget availability.

F4E plans to welcome trainees in October 2026 according to availability and business needs.

Please note that F4E teams may contact trainees placed in a reserve list at any time during the traineeship period, either due to last minute withdrawal of the candidate or early termination of a traineeship.

If you have any questions regarding this call, please contact us at traineeships@f4e.europa.eu.

You must satisfy the following requirements on the closing date for submission of your application:

I.Eligibility criteria

• To be national of a Member State of the European Union and Switzerland.
• Have obtained a university degree (attested by a diploma) of at least three years by the closing date of applications.
• Have a good knowledge of English, minimum level B2 according to Common European Framework for Languages (CEFR).
• Have never been a trainee (paid or unpaid) and/or have never had any other kind of employment in any European Institution before.

II.Selection criteria

1.Experience and knowledge

• Knowledge in an area relating to the activities of F4E.

2.Competencies

• Working with others: ability to establish and maintain good relationships with team members, to demonstrate willingness to learn about and from others and to continually demonstrate effective speaking and listening skills.
• Planning work for results: ability to deliver work on time, to deliver added value to the service and to identify and organise resources needed to efficiently accomplish own work.
• Manage projects: ability to manage time, resources, and information in an effective manner for the achievement of the expected project results.
• Ability to think outside the box, adopt the changes needed to produce workable solutions and to seek and suggest effective initiatives for change.

At F4E, we believe that fusion energy holds the key to a sustainable future for our planet. By joining our Traineeship Scheme, you’ll be part of a global effort to unlock the potential of fusion as a clean, abundant, and reliable energy source . Apply now and be part of our mission to shape the the future of fusion.