Job Description

Opportunity Description

Do you want a paid career launchpad in intellectual property, based in Geneva, Switzerland? The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), a specialized United Nations agency, runs the WIPO Young Experts Program (YEP) at its Geneva headquarters. This 24-month fellowship funds early-career professionals from any country to work directly on WIPO’s IP, innovation, and creativity initiatives. Applications for the 2026-2027 cohort close on August 14, 2026, ahead of a February 1, 2027 program start.

Key Details

• Provided by: World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)
• Host institution: WIPO Headquarters, Geneva
• Location: Geneva, Switzerland
• Admission Deadline: August 14, 2026
• Degree Level: Non-degree, professional fellowship (open to holders of a first-level university degree)
• Gender: All genders
• Type: Fellowship / Training Program
• Eligible Nations: All countries (WIPO accepts applicants from both member and non-member states)
• Eligible Degree Programs: WIPO does not list specific degree programs for the YEP. It requires a first-level university degree (a bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in any field, combined with relevant knowledge of or experience in intellectual property, innovation, or creativity.

WIPO Young Experts Program Benefits

• Monthly stipend of 5,000 Swiss Francs (CHF)
• Contribution toward 75% of medical insurance costs
• Accident insurance coverage
• Contribution toward travel expenses (exact amount not published)
• Possible assistance with Swiss entry visa applications
• Possible guidance on finding accommodation in Geneva
• On-the-job learning through WIPO Academy training, plus assigned mentors

Eligibility Criteria

• Maximum age of 35 at the time of application submission
• Must be available for the full 24-month program duration
• Must hold a first-level university degree
• Must have at least 2 years of relevant work experience
• Must demonstrate excellent analytical, research, and organizational skills
• Must demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Must demonstrate excellent written and spoken English
• Must show knowledge of, or experience in, intellectual property, innovation, or creativity
• Selected participants cannot apply for WIPO jobs during the program or within one year after it ends
• The program requires physical presence at WIPO’s Geneva headquarters; remote participation is not allowed

WIPO’s official page does not list a minimum GPA, a degree equivalency scale, or any language test (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo). English proficiency is assessed through the application and interview process, and the program runs entirely in English.

How to Apply?

• Create an account on WIPO’s official careers portal and select the YEP vacancy you want to apply for.
• Submit your application online, including a motivational cover letter explaining why you would be an asset to the program, plus up-to-date references.
• For questions about the program, email erecruit@wipo.int.

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