WIPO Internship Roster

Job Posting Organization:
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations 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 globally, with a presence in multiple countries and a diverse workforce that reflects its commitment to equal employment opportunities. The organization values diversity and encourages applications from candidates from underrepresented Member States and geographical regions.

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 engage in various tasks that align with their academic background and interests, allowing them to develop professional skills and gain insights into the workings of an international organization. The program is open to individuals pursuing or having obtained university degrees, and it aims to foster a learning environment where interns can apply their knowledge and skills in real-world scenarios. Interns will be involved in projects that may include research, analysis, and support for various WIPO initiatives, thereby enhancing their understanding of intellectual property and its global implications.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be assigned specific tasks based on the needs of the Hiring Office, which may include conducting research, assisting in project administration, supporting communication efforts, and contributing to the development of reports and presentations. Each internship will have tailored Terms of Reference that outline the specific duties and responsibilities expected from the intern. Interns are expected to work full-time and actively participate in team meetings and discussions, providing their insights and perspectives on ongoing projects. They will also be encouraged to engage with other interns and staff members to foster a collaborative learning environment.

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 within two years of completing their most recent degree. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate strong analytical skills, effective communication abilities, and proficiency in Microsoft Office applications. A proactive attitude and the ability to adapt to new systems and software are also essential.

Educational Background:
The internship program is open to individuals pursuing a first-level university degree, advanced university degree candidates, or recent graduates. Candidates must be in their third or fourth year of study or have completed their coursework for advanced degrees but not yet their final thesis. This educational requirement ensures that interns have a solid foundation in their respective fields, which can include law, economics, information technology, and other relevant areas.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandatory, candidates should possess relevant academic knowledge and skills that align with the internship's focus area. The program is designed to provide practical experience, so a willingness to learn and engage with new concepts is crucial. Previous internships or volunteer work in related fields 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 being particularly important. Knowledge of additional WIPO working languages such as Arabic, Chinese, German, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish is considered an advantage, as it enhances the intern's ability to contribute to diverse projects and collaborate with international teams.

Additional Notes:
Interns are required to submit a cover letter or letter of motivation with their applications. The internships are full-time, and candidates must cover their own travel and living expenses. However, interns from developing or least developed countries may be eligible for reimbursement of travel expenses up to a maximum of 1,500 Swiss francs. It is important to note that internships at WIPO cannot be conducted remotely, and participation in the program does not guarantee future employment with WIPO. The selection process involves reviewing applications against specific internship opportunities, and candidates may be contacted for interviews if their profiles match available positions.