Fellowship Program

Building networks, expanding knowledge

Explore the world of intellectual property and international cooperation through WIPO's Fellowship Program.
Designed to strengthen the development of professionals in specialized disciplines, our fellowship program offers the opportunity to gain hands-on experience, expand knowledge, build your network and contribute to global innovation and creativity.

Important info about the program

  • Location: Geneva, Switzerland
  • Duration: 12 - 36 months
Director General Daren Tang standing with the young experts

"We’re 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

General requirements

To be eligible for a fellowship at WIPO, candidates must possess at least a first-level university degree (e.g., a bachelor’s degree). 

Please note that depending on the specific fellowship category, there may be additional requirements, such as a minimum level of professional experience, advanced degrees (Master or PhD), or specific competencies. 

How to apply? 

Fellowship positions may be advertised through calls for expressions of interest, published on our career website or via WIPO’s LinkedIn or other social media channels.

Types of Fellows

Fellows are classified into four distinct categories, which are based on the type of functions performed and in line with WIPO’s business needs.

Translation fellows

The PCT Translation and Terminology Fellowship Program accommodates individuals (assistant terminologists, translators, post-editors, translation technologists and technical specialists) with the aim of providing training and on-the-job experience at an international organization. 

Legal case manager fellows

The WIPO Domain Name Fellowship Program accommodates young law graduates. The experience gained at WIPO will strengthen their knowledge of Internet dispute and trademark law. 

Visiting and research fellows

The Research and Visiting Fellowship Program accommodates individuals with a background in economics or statistics with the aim of providing learning opportunities to help them building knowledge and experience that they can apply in their professional field.

Other specialized fellows

It accommodates different educational and professional backgrounds to work in diverse areas of the organization.

Benefits

  • Contract: Your contract duration is up to 12 months, with the possibility of renewal for a total of up to three years.

  • Remuneration: WIPO will provide a monthly stipend ranging from 3,000 to 8,000 CHF per month depending on your academic background and experience that may be relevant to the nature of the fellowship.

  • Holidays: In addition to 10 days of official holidays per year, as part of our commitment to positive work environment, during each full month of your fellowship, you will be entitled to 2.5 days of annual leave.

  • Health Insurance: WIPO will provide you with a comprehensive insurance coverage, including a 75% contribution toward your medical insurance, and full coverage of your professional accident insurance.

  • Relocation Assistance: WIPO will cover travel expenses at the start and end of your fellowship. If necessary, WIPO assists in facilitating the visa formalities to Switzerland.

  • Learning and development: You will have access to a variety of opportunities for professional growth and development. You can participate in different internal training programs offered by the WIPO Academy, and you will be eligible for up to six study leave days per year. Additionally, WIPO will bear the cost of UN Official languages training, if these are required by your job duties.

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Frequently asked questions

There is no specific age limit for our fellowships. 

Yes, our fellowships are envisaged for young professionals and there is no specific period after graduation to apply for our fellowship positions.

Former interns are welcome to apply for our fellowship positions, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. However, YEPs are not allowed to apply for any position at WIPO within the two years after finishing the Young Experts Program. 

A fellowship at WIPO does not guarantee future employment. Any subsequent employment would be subject to WIPO's regular recruitment and selection processes. 
Still have questions? Check the FAQs or contact us.
Dear Applicant,
Thank you so much for your interest in our program! If your application is successful, we'll be thrilled to inform you promptly. We strive to get back to everyone, but please understand that due to the fast-paced nature of the program, it might take us a bit longer to reach out to those who haven't moved to the next stage.
We truly appreciate your patience and enthusiasm!
Warm regards,
WIPO Recruitment Team

Meet some of our Fellows

Hear firsthand their experience of WIPO’s Fellowship Program
Anmol Kaur Grewal

This role has been a great platform for professional growth in an encouraging environment that values initiative and fresh thinking.

Anmol, Department for Economics and Data Analytics, India
Kilili Nthiwa

WIPO has offered me an opportunity to hone my skills in project management while interacting with and contributing to solving global intellectual property issues.

Kilili, Building Respect for IP Division, Kenya
Ian Enriquez

As a Diversity and Inclusion Fellow, I have contributed to different initiatives and projects fostering an inclusive work environment where colleagues feel valued, and respected for the viewpoints, ideas, and experiences they bring.

Ian, Employee Experience Unit, Argentina
Magdalena Pisko

This experience has fueled my passion for intellectual property as a tool for global change, and I am excited to continue contributing to this dynamic field.
Continue reading

Jokha, Madrid Operations Division, Oman
Nuraiym Iliiasova

The supportive environment, surrounded by kind and talented people from around the world, kept me motivated and broadened my perspective.
Continue reading

Hyunsun, PCT Translation Division, South Korea

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