Earn While You Learn! Apply for the Fully Funded WIPO Young Experts Program (YEP) 2026-2027
Earn While You Learn! Apply for the Fully Funded WIPO Young Experts Program (YEP) 2026-2027. Are you a young professional (35 or younger) passionate about Intellectual Property (IP), innovation, and sustainable development? The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) invites you to apply for its fully funded Young Experts Program (YEP) 2026-2027. This prestigious, two-year initiative in Geneva, Switzerland, offers a monthly stipend of CHF 5,000, comprehensive benefits, and unique on-the-job learning to cultivate the next generation of global IP leaders. If you have a relevant university degree, at least two years of work experience, and are eager to make a real-world impact, this is your chance to gain deep insights into IP’s technical and strategic dimensions. The application deadline is August 14, 2025!
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Background & Job Description
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations, dedicated to promoting the balanced evolution of the international IP system to foster innovation and creativity for the benefit of all. The Young Experts Program (YEP) is a flagship initiative designed to empower early-career professionals, particularly from developing and least developed countries, with a deep understanding of IP’s technical and policy aspects. Hosted at WIPO’s headquarters in Geneva, the program provides immersive, hands-on experience, bridging academic training with real-world project work. YEP participants will contribute to addressing major global challenges through the strategic use of IP and innovation, while building essential leadership and professional skills that will contribute to their home countries’ long-term innovation ecosystems and the global IP landscape.
Tasks
YEP participants will engage in a blended learning format, combining practical work with academic training. Specific tasks may vary depending on the assigned area within WIPO, but generally include:
- Engaging in real-world project work related to intellectual property, innovation, and sustainable development.
- Participating in academic training opportunities through the WIPO Academy.
- Collaborating with WIPO experts and senior leaders on various initiatives.
- Contributing to discussions and projects addressing global challenges such as climate change and digital transformation through IP.
- Receiving guidance from an assigned WIPO mentor on leadership, project management, and navigating the international policy landscape.
- Networking with a global professional community of IP leaders.
Earn While You Learn! Apply for the Fully Funded WIPO Young Experts Program (YEP) 2026-2027
Qualifications
Education and Certification
Applicants must hold a university degree in a relevant field. While not explicitly stated as mandatory, an advanced university degree in fields such as law, international relations, economics, management, engineering, applied sciences, development studies, or related disciplines is desirable for certain assignments.
Experience
Candidates must be 35 years old or younger at the time of application submission and available full-time for the two-year program (February 1, 2026 – January 31, 2028). A minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience is required. Applicants must demonstrate strong analytical, research, and organizational skills, possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and be fluent in spoken and written English. Knowledge of, or experience in, Intellectual Property (IP), innovation, or creative industries is essential. Working knowledge of any other UN official languages is a desirable asset.
Additional Information
The WIPO Young Experts Program (YEP) is a fully funded opportunity covering significant expenses. Participants receive a monthly stipend of 5,000 Swiss Francs (CHF), a 75% contribution towards medical insurance, accident insurance coverage, and travel expense support for relocation to Geneva. WIPO also provides visa guidance and potential accommodation assistance. It is crucial to note that the YEP is not a pathway to WIPO employment; participants are not eligible to apply for WIPO positions during the program or for one year after its completion. This program is focused on developing future IP leaders who will return and make an impact in their home countries and regions.
Key Program Details:
- Location: Geneva, Switzerland (in-person, no remote option).
- Duration: 24 months (February 1, 2026 – January 31, 2028).
- Application Deadline: August 14, 2025.
Selection Timeline:
- Applications Open: July 8, 2025
- Live Information Event: July 31, 2025
- Applications Close: August 14, 2025
- Screening Tests: Late August 2025
- Virtual Interviews: September–October 2025
- Final Selection: November 2025
- Onboarding: December 2025 – January 2026
- Program Start: February 1, 2026
How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit their applications exclusively via the WIPO online application portal. Email submissions are not accepted. Applicants are strongly encouraged to attend the live information event on July 31, 2025, for more insights.
Please Note: As the publisher of this job post, I am not affiliated with the World Intellectual Property Organization. I am simply sharing this opportunity for the benefit of my audience. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, including the official application link, always refer to the official WIPO website (www.wipo.int).
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