Global Research Trainee Program

About the Program

The Global Research Trainee Program is a 15-month development program designed to prepare outstanding graduates for a career as a Freight or Commodity Analyst in Oldendorff’s Research Department.

Through rotations across different areas of Research and Oldendorff offices around the world, you will gain exposure to varied segments of the dry bulk shipping and commodities markets.

Under the guidance of experienced analysts, you will work on challenging assignments, develop your analytical and commercial understanding, and learn how market intelligence supports decisions across the business.

By the end of the program, you will have gained a broad understanding of the dry bulk market and deeper insight into the dynamics connecting different vessel sizes, commodities and global trade. After successfully completing the program, you will begin your career in the Research Department as a Freight or Commodity Analyst.

What You’ll Experience

During the program, you will:

• rotate across different business areas within Research
• gain international exposure through rotations in Oldendorff offices around the world
• explore different segments of the freight and commodities markets
• work closely with experienced analysts
• take on challenging analytical assignments
• develop a holistic understanding of the dry bulk market
• prepare for a career as a Freight or Commodity Analyst

What You’ll Do

You will analyse freight markets, commodities and global trade flows to understand what is happening and why.

Working with large datasets, you will learn to connect developments in economics, international trade, politics and the natural environment. You will turn complex information into clear, forward-looking insights that support Oldendorff’s commercial teams and help the business navigate changing market conditions.

Global Research Trainee Program (GRTP) Brochure

Singapore Freight Research Team

Explore the Role 
 

Our Research Team

Our Research team brings together colleagues from different nationalities and academic backgrounds, including business, finance, engineering, mathematics and social sciences, across five locations worldwide.

The team supports Oldendorff’s commercial functions with market intelligence and forward-looking views on freight and commodities. Despite their different backgrounds, team members share a commitment to high-quality work, continuous learning and mutual support.

You will become part of an international environment where ideas are welcomed, colleagues support one another and there is a strong sense of camaraderie.

Our Selection Process

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

The selection process may include:

• eligibility and application review
• online cognitive and behavioural assessments
• online and in-person interviews
• a practical Research case study or assessment exercise
• a final discussion with senior Research colleagues

The process is designed to help us understand your analytical potential, approach to problem-solving, motivation and fit with the Research environment. It will also give you opportunities to learn more about the program, the team and the future career.
 

Who We’re Looking For

You are naturally inquisitive and enjoy looking beyond the obvious.

You like investigating complex questions, working with numbers and connecting information that others may not immediately link together. You learn quickly, approach data creatively and pay close attention to detail.

You are confident sharing your ideas, comfortable working independently and enjoy contributing to a supportive international team.

Requirements

To be eligible for the program, you should:

• be in the final year of a degree in Economics, Statistics, Finance, Mathematics, Business or a related field, or have graduated within the past two years
• have a strong academic record
• be proficient in written and spoken English
• demonstrate strong analytical, quantitative and problem-solving skills
• be comfortable working with large datasets
• be based in Singapore or be willing and able to relocate to Singapore before the program begins

The following would be an advantage, but are not required:

• previous internship experience in research, dry bulk shipping, commodities or another commercial environment
• strong Microsoft Excel skills

Skills and Personal Qualities

We are looking for someone who:

• has an inquisitive and investigative mindset
• quickly grasps new and complex concepts
• can connect the dots across data, economics and global developments
• works accurately and carefully with large datasets
• communicates ideas and findings clearly and confidently
• shows initiative and can work independently
• contributes positively to a team and works towards shared goals
• is motivated by challenging assignments and continuous learning

Application Information

Applications for the 2026 and 2027 intakes are currently open. We review applications and invite selected candidates to the next stage on a rolling basis.

Please complete the online application form and attach:

• your résumé (required)
• a cover letter (optional)
• your latest academic transcript or relevant academic records (optional)

Ready to Apply?

If you are inquisitive, creative with data and ready for a challenging international learning experience, we would like to hear from you.