Policy Researcher in interfaces Digital Public Sphere Programme (m/f/d)

We are looking for a Policy Researcher to join interfaces Digital Public Sphere Programme in Brussels. We welcome applications from candidates based in Brussels. We offer an initial two-year contract, with the possibility of a permanent contract thereafter, and are looking for someone to start as soon as possible. The position is available on a full-time or part-time basis (80 - 90%).

Understanding the impact of online platforms requires looking beyond individual pieces of legislation to examine how platform design, business practices and regulatory frameworks interact to shape people's online experiences and their ability to participate in public life. interface's Digital Public Sphere Programme examines how the EU can foster a safer, fairer and more democratic online environment through effective platform regulation. We assess the opportunities and limitations of existing and emerging regulatory frameworks, identify gaps and overlaps between them, and develop policy recommendations that strengthen platform accountability while safeguarding fundamental rights and empowering users.

As a Policy Researcher in our Digital Public Sphere Programme, you will produce research and policy recommendations on strengthening the EUs digital public sphere and holding online platforms accountable for their impact on society. Your research will contribute to evidence-based policymaking through legal and policy analysis, comparative research and the development of actionable recommendations.

This position focuses on the EU KIDS Act, the Digital Services Act, the Digital Fairness Act and their interactions with other tech regulations (e.g. the AI Act, DMA, GDPR, AVMSD).  In this role, you will work closely with the team in Berlin and Paris to advance our work on digital regulation and platform responsibility in the EU.

interface is an independent expert organisation specialising in information technology and public policy. Our goal is to ensure that political decisionmakers have the expertise and ideas necessary to create policies and make decisions that put the public interest first. We provide analysis and ideas to decisionmakers and the public across Europe on issues such as artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, platform oversight, global chip dynamics and government surveillance. To produce analysis and advice that matters to policymakers, our experts combine a deep understanding of technology with practical experience of how government processes work.

• Conduct qualitative (and quantitative) research on EU platform regulation, online (child) safety, fundamental rights and the digital public sphere, contributing to the development of our thematic work.
• Monitor, research and analyse legislative, regulatory and political developments at EU and national levels, with a particular focus on the EU KIDS Act, the Digital Services Act, the Digital Fairness Act, the AI Act and their interactions with other EU digital legislation.
• Analyse the design and business practices of online platforms, the risks they pose to users and society, and the effectiveness of existing and proposed regulatory responses.
• Assess regulatory gaps, overlaps and enforcement challenges, and contribute to the development of evidence-based, actionable policy recommendations.
• Structure and manage your own research tasks and priorities within agreed project frameworks, ensuring that your work is methodologically sound, well documented and delivered on time.
• Develop research outputs such as policy papers, reports, briefings and other publications, taking ownership of defined deliverables or sections of larger projects.
• Translate complex legal and policy findings into clear and accessible messages for policymakers, civil society and other stakeholders (e.g. the media).
• Engage with external stakeholders, including EU institutions, national authorities, civil society organisations, researchers and industry representatives, through interviews, workshops, policy discussions and public events.
• Collaborate with colleagues across interface to connect research findings with policy advocacy, strategic communications and outreach activities.
• Contribute to the development of new research ideas, collaborative projects and funding applications, including work carried out in consortia with partner organisations.

• Youre based in Brussels.
• You have a strong grasp of legal issues and a good understanding of digital regulation.
• Youre interested in tech policy, regulatory processes and in translating research into work that is relevant for political and societal debates (topics: online minors protection, platform regulation, DFA, EU Kids Act and DSA enforcement).
• You have a relevant academic background or equivalent professional experience in a field related to our policy work (e.g. public policy, law, political science, economics).
• You are experienced in conducting research and analysing complex policy questions using qualitative and/or quantitative methods.
• You can critically assess evidence, sources and methodological limitations.
• You bring strong analytical and writing skills to the table, with the ability to develop clear, well-structured and evidence-based arguments.
• Youre able to work independently on defined tasks and deliverables while actively coordinating with colleagues and seeking input where needed.
• Youre known for your good organisational skills and the ability to manage priorities and deadlines across different pieces of work.
• A C1 level of English is required.
• Working experience in a consortium of organisations is a plus.
• You are open to working in a remote, international and interdisciplinary team.

• The opportunity to contribute your ideas and expertise on platform regulation to national and EU policy debates.
• A high degree of personal responsibility, while being part of an expert team.
• A Brussels-based position with employment in Belgium.
• Flexible working hours.
• The flexibility to work remotely within Belgium.
• Access to our centrally located and accessible office in Berlin when visiting.
• Financial support to equip your remote office and a monthly mobile office allowance.
• Generous annual leave entitlement plus an additional day off on 31 December.
• Five optional care days per year to support family, friends and pets.
• Annual competence development meeting and salary adjustment.
• Access to an annual training budget for professional and personal growth.
• Up to three professional coaching sessions per year to support well-being at work.
• Support from our Diversity Officer for matters concerning gender, diversity and equality.
• A gross annual salary of EUR 49,20052,800 for full-time employment, adjusted proportionately for part-time work.

We welcome applications from individuals of all ages, ethnic origins, nationalities, genders, gender identities, physical abilities, cognitive diversity, religions, beliefs, sexual orientations, and social backgrounds. We strongly encourage candidates from ethnic minorities and other underrepresented groups in civil society organisations to apply and bring their unique perspectives to our team.

Please apply with a short cover letter of no more than one page outlining your motivation and relevant professional experience, along with a CV without a photo.

Interviews will take place online. Application deadline is 22nd of November 2026. Madlen Schliephake (hr@interface-eu.org) will be happy to answer any questions you may have.