Young Experts Program

Growing Future Global IP Leaders

The WIPO Young Experts Program (YEP) aims to upskill and expand the capabilities of the next generation of global Intellectual Property (IP) leaders to help build innovation ecosystems around the world.

Through this 2-year competitive program, 10 young and talented professionals will work first-hand on WIPO's various initiatives. The Program offers exposure to both technical and strategic aspects of IP, allowing YEP participants to gain skills and knowledge that can contribute to the future economic growth of their countries and regions.

This is a unique opportunity for your career and a leadership program for life!

The YEP is not intended as a vehicle for recruitment into WIPO, but to grow IP leaders who can then make a difference on the ground in different parts of the world. As such, and in line with the practice in similar programs, participants in the YEP will not be allowed to apply for any jobs at WIPO during their time as a YEP. Those participating will also not be allowed to work at or for WIPO in the two years following the end of their participation in the YEP.

Important info about the program

Location: Geneva, Switzerland
Duration: 24 months
Application deadline: August 15

Director General Daren Tang standing with the young experts

"We’re investing in young, talented persons from diverse backgrounds, giving them the exposure needed to understand IP at both a technical and strategic level, as well as nurture them in leadership and administrative skills. In this way, we are not only providing a pathway to an enriching career, but also allowing them to contribute to the future economic growth of their countries and regions."
Director General Daren Tang

Use your skills to make a difference with WIPO

As we kick off our 2025-2026 cohort recruitment, we invite you on a thrilling journey to discover and unite with our community of innovators. Each step in our selection process is a chance to showcase your unique strengths and join a transformative adventure of growth and success. Welcome to the beginning of an extraordinary journey!

Requirements

Max 35 years old at the time application is submitted
Available for 24 months for 2025 - 2026
A University degree
At least 2 years relevant experience

Excellent analytical, research & organisational skills
Excellent communication & interpersonal skills
Excellent written & spoken English

Knowledge of, or experience in IP, innovation or creativity

Benefits

5'000 Swiss Francs (CHF) / month
Contribution to cover 50% of medical insurance costs

Accident insurance
Contribution towards travel expenses

Possible assistance on VISA entry in Switzerland
Possible guidance on accomodation

Selection process timeline

YEP live event: July 25, 2024
Applications close: August 15, 2024
Initial screening tests: end of August 2024

Virtual Interview: September 2024
Selection: October 2024
Onboarding: between November and January 2025

Program start: February 1, 2025

Young Experts Program Cohort 2025-2026

Key information potential applicants need about the program, such as who can apply, stipend, events where they can learn more about the program, the deadline for submitting their applications, the program start date, contact information, what they can expect if they’re selected and how we inform them, news about the program.

Max 35 years old at the time the application is submitted
Available for 24 months in 2025 – 2026
A First Level University degree
At least 2 years relevant experience
Excellent analytical, research & organisational skills
Excellent communication & interpersonal skills
Excellent written & spoken English
Knowledge in innovation and/or creativity

Benefits for the duration of the course

A monthly stiped of 5000 Swiss Francs (CHF)
Contribution to cover 50% of medical insurance costs
Accident insurance
Contribution towards travel expenses
WIPO may assist in obtaining an entry visa into Switzerland
WIPO’s staff counsellor may provide guidance regarding accommodation

The call for applications is now open and will close on 15 August, 2024, at midnight Geneva time.

Please ensure that your application is comprehensive and correct before submitting it. Due to the fast-paced nature of the program, our team may not be able to immediately get back to candidates who have not made it to the next stage of recruitment.

What you need to prepare for your application:

Motivational cover letter clearly stating why you think you would be an asset for this role.
Contact and confirm references to ensure they are up-to-date

Note: Always check the specific requirements in the job posting or on the WIPO website, as they may vary or include additional requirements.

Selection Process timeline

Applications close August 15, 2024
Initial screening tests: end of August 2024
Virtual Interviews: September 2024
Selection: October 2024
Onboarding: between November and January 2025
Program start: February 1, 2025

The program will start on February 1, 2025, in Geneva, Switzerland. Successful candidates are required to work from WIPO’s headquarters. Remote work is not possible for this program.

Physical address where the program is hosted

World Intellectual Property Organization
34, chemin des Colombettes
CH-1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland
Map | Access | Visit us | Practical information

Orientation Session

Orientation sessions to be organised in January 2025.

Contact information

Applicants can send questions to erecruit@wipo.int for assistance with any queries or concerns regarding onboarding and related logistics.

Health and safety guidelines

The WIPO Guide for newcomers will be provided during the onboarding process, including health and safety guidelines.

We provide this information well in advance to ensure our candidates have all necessary information to prepare them adequately and transition them smoothly into the program.

Dear Applicant,

Thank you so much for your interest in our program! If your application is successful, we'll be thrilled to inform you promptly. We strive to get back to everyone, but please understand that due to the fast-paced nature of the program, it might take us a bit longer to reach out to those who haven't moved to the next stage.

We truly appreciate your patience and enthusiasm!

Warm regards,

WIPO Recruitment Team

Still have questions? Check the FAQs or contact us.

Still have questions?

FAQs

Are you ready to apply?

Explore the YEP vacancies

6 reasons why you should join WIPO's Young Expert Program

Unique on-the-job learning

As part of this program, you will learn about IP and the role of WIPO in promoting innovation and creativity for the benefit of all. The program has a blended learning format which includes on-the-job learning and academic training opportunities with our WIPO Academy.

Mentoring and guidance

As part of the program, you will be assigned mentors to help you hone your management and administrative skills and build your career. From day one, you will be exposed to interesting and impactful projects that will deepen your knowledge and skills.

diverse group of WIPO mentors and YEP students in a meeting

International network

As part of the YEP community, you will have frequent networking opportunities with senior leaders and IP experts at WIPO. After the program, you will become part of a vibrant network of future global IP leaders, contributing to the development of the global IP ecosystem.

Work on pressing challenges

As a YEP professional, you will work on meaningful projects that address global challenges, such as climate change, by using IP, innovation, and creativity to find solutions.

young experts discussing near the pool table

Global community

As part of a global program, you will work in an international agency with a workforce that comes from 120+ countries. This diverse environment will allow you to broaden your horizons and enrich your professional perspective.

Professional experience

As a YEP participant, you will see diplomacy and multilateralism up close, learning how to bridge differences and work toward consensus. As part of the WIPO Secretariat, young professionals will work on exciting IP projects to build their CVs for future opportunities back in the global IP landscape.