Internship Roster

Job Posting Organization:
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is an agency of the United Nations that was established in 196

• Its mission is to promote innovation and creativity for the economic, social, and cultural development of all countries through a balanced and effective international intellectual property system. WIPO operates in over 190 countries and has a diverse workforce that values equal employment opportunities and diversity among its personnel. The organization aims to support the development of intellectual property systems that benefit all nations, particularly those that are underrepresented in the global intellectual property landscape.

Job Overview:
The WIPO Internship Program is designed to provide interns with the opportunity to gain practical experience in an international context while contributing to WIPO's mission. Interns will have the chance to learn about WIPO's core values and initiatives, enhancing their educational experience and developing professional skills. The program is open to individuals pursuing various levels of university degrees and aims to attract candidates from underrepresented Member States and geographical regions. Interns will be involved in a range of activities that align with their academic background and interests, contributing fresh perspectives and knowledge to WIPO's work.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be assigned specific Terms of Reference by the Hiring Office, which will outline the main duties and responsibilities for each internship. These may include conducting research, assisting in project administration, supporting technical cooperation services, participating in patent and trademark examination processes, and contributing to communications and conference services. Interns are expected to work full-time and engage actively in the tasks assigned to them, collaborating with WIPO staff and other interns to achieve organizational goals.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be pursuing or have obtained a university degree. For those pursuing a first-level university degree, they should be in their third or fourth year of study or in a program that requires an internship. Graduates are eligible to apply for internships within two years of completing their most recent degree. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and possess good analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the internship varies by category. Category I is for individuals pursuing a first-level university degree or those who have graduated within the last two years. Category II is for individuals pursuing an advanced university degree who have completed coursework but not the final thesis, or those who have obtained their advanced degree within the last two years. Candidates must meet the specific educational criteria outlined for each category to be eligible for the internship.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandatory, candidates should demonstrate relevant skills and knowledge in their field of study. The internship is designed to provide practical experience, so a willingness to learn and adapt is essential. Previous internships or volunteer work in related areas may be beneficial but are not required.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English and/or French is mandatory for most internships, with excellent drafting skills in English often required. Knowledge of additional WIPO working languages such as Arabic, Chinese, German, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish is considered an advantage and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
Interns are expected to cover their own travel and subsistence expenses and are responsible for arranging travel, visas, and accommodation. However, interns from developing or least developed countries may be eligible for reimbursement of travel expenses up to 1,500 Swiss francs. Internships are not a guarantee of future employment with WIPO, and candidates must apply through the standard recruitment procedures for any fixed-term or temporary positions. Internships cannot be conducted remotely, and candidates are encouraged to submit a cover letter or letter of motivation with their applications.