WIPO Launches New “Young Experts Program”

Geneva, October 28, 2021
PR/2021/882

WIPO today launched a new initiative – the Young Experts Program (YEP) - aimed at forging the next generation of intellectual property leaders.

The two-year program hosted at WIPO is designed to expose young people with high potential, particularly from developing and least developed countries as well as countries in transition, to the technical and policy aspects of IP. The program aims to gear them up for leadership positions within the innovation and creative ecosystems of their home countries and regions.

“WIPO has pioneered the YEP to groom the next generation of IP leaders, in all Member States, especially those from developing countries and least-developed countries” said WIPO Director General Daren Tang.

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. We hope that our YEP cohort will leave the program with an enriched and deep understanding of innovation, creativity and IP, and be ready to make an impact, whether in the international, public or private sector.

Daren Tang, WIPO Director General

This is WIPO’s first program that is entirely dedicated to building IP capacity among young people. Eleven young professionals will be selected to join the two-year program starting in January 2022.

YEP selectees will enjoy a wide-ranging and cohesive WIPO working experience, focused on on-the-job learning through a rotational system for exposure to different sectors, focus areas and colleagues. The YEP will also include a structured program of mentoring for each Young Expert as well as regular networking opportunities with top and senior leadership at WIPO.

Along with the skills they will gain, the Young Experts will be encouraged to form a community of peers that will continue long into their careers.

Requirements for Applicants

The minimum requirements for applicants are as follows:

• Maximum age 35 years at time of application
• Available for 24 months 2022-2023
• University degree
• Minimum 2 years working experience
• Strong analytical, research and organizational skills
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Excellent English, written and spoken

In addition, preferred requirements are as follows:

• Knowledge / experience in the areas of IP, innovation or creativity
• Knowledge of other UN languages

Applications are being accepted through November 19, 2021 via the WIPO website www.wipo.int/yep.