WIPO Young Experts Program (YEP) 2026–2028

Omran Aburayya
Aug 6
2 min read

If you're a young professional passionate about innovation, creativity, and the role of intellectual property (IP) in sustainable development—this is your chance! WIPO’s Young Experts Program (YEP) offers a fully funded 24-month learning experience at the heart of Geneva to help you grow as a future leader in the global IP ecosystem.

🎓 Fellowship Summary

Location: Geneva, Switzerland (WIPO Headquarters)
Duration: 24 months (February 1, 2026 – January 31, 202)
Target Group: Early-career professionals (max 35 years old), from around the world, especially emerging economies
Fields of Focus: Intellectual Property systems, innovation strategies, creative industries, international IP policy

🌍 Program Overview

The YEP is tailored to immerse selected participants in both the technical and strategic dimensions of IP through real-world assignments at WIPO. You will gain hands-on experience, attend training at the WIPO Academy, and engage with projects addressing global challenges such as climate change, digital transformation, and sustainable innovation. This is not a recruitment pipeline—YEP builds your capabilities, not your eligibility for WIPO employment.

🌍 Benefits

Participants receive:

A monthly stipend of CHF 5,000 to support living expenses in Geneva
Coverage of 75% of medical insurance, plus accident insurance
Relocation support, contribution toward travel costs to Geneva
Possible visa support and accommodation guidance from WIPO staff
Access to WIPO Academy courses, mentoring by senior IP experts, and membership in a global professional network

✅ Eligibility Criteria

You are eligible if you:

Are 35 years old or younger at time of application
Can commit to full-time participation for the full 24-month period (Feb 2026–Jan 2028)
Hold at least a Bachelor’s degree in law, economics, political science, technology, innovation, or related disciplines
Have minimum 2 years of relevant work experience
Demonstrate excellent analytical, research, communication, and organizational skills
Are fluent in written and spoken English (UN official languages are an asset)
Have knowledge or professional interest in IP, innovation, or creative industries

📝 Application Process

All applicants must apply online via the WIPO careers portal. Email or other submission formats are not accepted.

✅ Prepare these Documents:

Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Motivation or cover letter showing fit and interest in IP
Academic degree certificates
Contact details of two referees (if requested)
Optional: portfolio or publications (depending on assignment)

📆 Timeline

Sure! Here's the timeline in bullet points style:

Applications open: July 8, 2025
Live info session: July 31, 2025
Deadline to apply: August 14, 2025
Screening tests: End of August 2025
Virtual interviews: September – October 2025
Final selection announced: November 2025
Onboarding phase: December 2025 – January 2026
Program starts: February 1, 2026

✨ Why Join the YEP?

Experience project-based work on IP and innovation topics at United Nations level
Build leadership, project management, and diplomatic skills through mentorship and training
Join a diverse and inclusive cohort of professionals from over 120 countries
Gain access to a global professional network and alumni community
Make a real impact contributing to your home country’s economic growth, innovation, and policy development