Young Experts Program: Growing Future Global IP Leaders
The WIPO “Young Experts Program” (YEP) aims to train the next generation of global IP leaders to help build innovation ecosystems around the world. Through this 2-year program, young and talented individuals will be groomed to not only understand the technical aspects of IP but also apply them in practice, to make an impact in their countries and regions.
This is boot camp for your career - and a graduate program for life!
Our next Young Experts cohort will join WIPO early 2024 and there will be 11 new assignments. Applications for the 2024 edition of the Young Expert Program are now open. If you are interested in being part of the next YEP cohort, please apply by the 22nd of September 2023.
We are 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
Young Experts Program Cohort 2024-2025
As we progress with our third cohort’s recruitment for the year 2024-2025, we are excited to share a brief overview of the program’s timeline and the selection process below. The below will provide applicants with an idea of the different stages of recruitment and the timeframe involved. Due to the fast-paced nature of the program, we may not always be able to get back to candidates who would not have made it to the next stages.
Selection process and timeline:
Calls for applications are now open and will close on September 22, 2023 at midnight (Geneva time).
If you would like to know about the program, join our Career event for the WIPO Young Experts Program, which will provide you with a unique opportunity for in-depth and engaging dialogues for young and talented individuals who aspire to become future global Intellectual Property leaders. We encourage you to register for the live event on September 14, 2023, and/or to receive the recording. This will provide you with the opportunity to learn more about the program and connect with our Young Experts Program Team and current Young Experts to understand their journeys and current roles at WIPO.
- Pre-screening - mid-late September
- Virtual interviews (round 1) – mid-late October
- Virtual interviews (round 2) – early-mid November
- Selection complete – early December
- Onboarding process – early January
Please note that the commencement date for the program will be February 1, 2024 and as the program takes place in Geneva, Switzerland and cannot be carried out remotely, the successful candidates will be required to physically be present on the commencement date.
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. You will be exposed on interesting and impactful projects from day one that will stretch and grow you.
International network
As part of the YEP community, you will have frequent networking opportunities with top and senior leaders at WIPO. After your 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
YEP professionals will work on meaningful and impactful projects and assignments that address global challenges such as climate change, and the use of IP, innovation and creativity to address these challenges.
Global community
YEP selectees will be welcomed from across the world and given the opportunity to learn from each other, as well as be in an international agency whose workforce is drawn from 120+ countries. As a Young Expert you will broaden your horizon and enrich your professional perspective.
Professional experience
YEP trainees will see diplomacy and multilateralism up close, learning how to bridge differences and work toward consensus. As part of the WIPO secretariat, the young professionals will work on providing data, rigorous analysis and other support to Member State delegates in their negotiations on optimizing the global IP system.
Young Experts Program's Requirements
- Maximum 35 years of age at the time of application
- Available for 24 months for 2024-2026
- University degree
- Minimum 2 years of relevant experience
- Strong analytical, research, and organizational skills
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Excellent written and spoken English
In addition, preferred requirements are as follows:
- Knowledge / experience in the areas of IP, innovation or creativity
- Knowledge of other UN languages
*The Young Experts Program takes place in Geneva, Switzerland and it cannot be carried out remotely.
Contact us
For inquiries, please use our contact form.
Hope to see you soon at WIPO!
YEP Benefits
- Salary: 5000 Swiss francs (CHF) per month.
- WIPO provides medical and accident insurance coverage during the course of the program.
- Contribution toward travel expenses will be provided. If necessary, WIPO may provide assistance in obtaining an entry visa to Switzerland.
- WIPO Staff Counselor may provide guidance regarding the accommodation.
Testimonials
“Being part of the first cohort of WIPOs Young Experts has been an amazing experience. The program undoubtedly opens up your mind to the many different but interlinked layers of the IP system and presents you with the opportunity to learn and see IP through a global lens. Working as part of the Traditional Knowledge Division team has been enriching on both a professional and personal level and I am grateful for the opportunity to work on matters concerning IP and Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs).”
— Nabanji, Traditional Knowledge Division
“Being part of the YEP Program has changed my perception of young people´s influence in companies and organizations. Here in WIPO, the voice of the Youth plays a significant role, and that message is consistently reflected in the way our opinion matters, and how the Director General and our supervisors listen us, so we can develop an active role to support the organization.”
— Matias, Division for Latin America and the Caribbean
“I experience the YEP program as a community of highly-motivated young professionals. I enjoy working on projects tailored to my individual competencies and I benefit from various learning opportunities and close mentoring by experienced WIPO colleagues. Creative problem-solving approach is welcomed and challenged. Moreover, I am introduced to the world of international relations and multilateralism. The program gives me opportunities to make tangible contributions to various IP ecosystems, as well as develop skill sets that will help me in fulfilling my long-term goals and aspirations.”
— Eva, PCT International Cooperation Division
Video: Meet Eva
“WIPO’s Young Expert Program is awesome! Top management support for the program is visible and meaningful, therefore Young Experts have unique opportunities to learn, integrate and contribute to the activities of WIPO. So far, I have learnt a lot about the economics of intellectual property and how complex intergovernmental organizations like WIPO or the UN in general work. I have also been able to contribute to projects that strongly align with my interests and values in my department and across sectors at WIPO. I heartily encourage any young person who is interested in making the world a more innovative and creative place to consider applying to this program.”
— Prince, Creative Economy Section