Description

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is recruiting its new class of young experts for 2027–2028. The Young Experts Program is a 24-month paid program at the organization’s headquarters in Geneva: Young experts work on real-world strategic and technical projects : intellectual property, innovation, and the creative economy : while following a structured training program through the WIPO Academy, with high-level mentoring. The terms are among the most attractive in the United Nations system for a youth program: a monthly stipend of 5,000 Swiss francs, coverage of 75% of health insurance costs, accident insurance, a contribution toward travel expenses, and support with visa applications and settling in Geneva. The program begins on February 1, 2027. It is open to candidates aged 35 or younger who hold at least a bachelor’s degree, have at least two years of relevant experience in intellectual property, innovation, or creativity, and possess an excellent command of English. The stated objective is to train a generation of experts capable of harnessing intellectual property to drive their countries’ economic development. The application window is open until August 14, 2026, via the WIPO careers portal. Please note: The YEP is a talent development program, not a direct path to employment at WIPO. Nevertheless, it remains one of the strongest springboards to an international career in innovation and intellectual property.

Official source and verification

Eligibility criteria

• Be 35 years old or younger as of the application date
• Hold at least a bachelor's degree
• Have at least 2 years of relevant experience (IP, innovation, creativity)
• Excellent command of English (written and spoken)
• 24-month availability in Geneva (2027–2028)

Application procedure