YEP - Young Experts Program

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.

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Director General Daren Tang
(Photo: WIPO/Berrod)

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

(Photo: WIPO/Berrod)

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.

(Photo: WIPO/Berrod)

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.

(Photo: WIPO/Berrod)

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.

(Photo: WIPO/Berrod)

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.

(Photo: WIPO/Berrod)

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.

(Photo: WIPO/Berrod)

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!

Video: WIPO Campus. Geneva, Switzerland.

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