The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has opened applications for its prestigious 2026 Fellowship Programme at its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. This 12-month fellowship offers an excellent opportunity for professionals in library and information science, knowledge management, and research support to gain practical experience within a United Nations specialized agency while receiving a monthly stipend of CHF 6,000.
Hosted by the WIPO Knowledge Center (WKC), the fellowship is designed to strengthen participants’ professional expertise in knowledge management, library analytics, digital information services, and evidence-based decision-making. The selected fellow will work alongside experienced professionals and contribute to projects that enhance WIPO’s global intellectual property knowledge resources.
Applications are open until 6 August 2026, with the fellowship expected to begin on 1 October 2026.
About the WIPO Fellowship Programme
The World Intellectual Property Organization serves as the United Nations agency responsible for promoting the protection of intellectual property worldwide. Its WIPO Knowledge Center acts as the organization’s central repository for intellectual property research, publications, and digital information resources.
The fellowship aims to provide early- to mid-career professionals with hands-on experience in managing knowledge resources while developing practical skills in data collection, analysis, reporting, and digital library services. Fellows will gain exposure to international best practices in knowledge management and contribute to improving access to valuable intellectual property information used by researchers, policymakers, and innovators around the world.
Throughout the programme, fellows will work under the supervision of the Head of the WIPO Knowledge Center while participating in projects that support strategic planning and service improvement.
Fellowship Responsibilities
The successful fellow will support various knowledge management and library assessment activities, including:
- Collecting, validating, and organizing quantitative and qualitative data related to library services and digital collections.
- Monitoring and analysing usage statistics from digital libraries, repositories, websites, and other online information platforms.
- Preparing statistical reports that support strategic planning and operational decision-making.
- Identifying trends in digital resource usage and recommending opportunities for service improvement.
- Assisting in the development and maintenance of key performance indicators (KPIs).
- Evaluating digital collections and library services using evidence-based assessment methods.
- Supporting bibliometric, citation, altmetric, and research impact analysis where applicable.
- Preparing presentations, reports, and briefing materials for internal stakeholders.
- Collaborating with colleagues to improve data collection, reporting workflows, and assessment processes.
- Performing additional duties related to knowledge management and library analytics as required.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following minimum qualifications.
Education
Candidates should possess:
- A first-level university degree in:
- Library Science
- Information Science
- Knowledge Management
- Or another closely related discipline.
- A recognized professional qualification relevant to the field.
Professional Experience
Applicants are expected to have:
- At least two years of professional experience in:
- Libraries
- Knowledge management
- Research support
- Information services
- Related professional environments.
- Experience collecting, managing, and analysing library or information-related data.
- Experience using service metrics and usage statistics to support performance assessment.
- Experience preparing analytical reports that inform organizational decision-making.
- Strong proficiency with spreadsheet applications and data analysis tools.
Desirable qualifications include experience with:
- Integrated library systems.
- Institutional repositories.
- Discovery platforms.
- Digital library services.
- Business intelligence and dashboard software.
- Data visualization platforms.
- Bibliometric and altmetric analysis.
- SQL, Python, R, or similar analytical programming tools.
Language Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate:
- Excellent written and spoken English.
Additional knowledge of another official WIPO language will be considered an advantage.
Skills and Competencies
Successful candidates should demonstrate:
- Strong understanding of library operations and digital information services.
- Knowledge of library assessment methodologies.
- Ability to organize and interpret data from multiple sources.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Understanding of statistical analysis and data visualization principles.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within multicultural teams.
WIPO also values professionals who demonstrate:
- Integrity.
- Teamwork.
- Diversity and inclusion.
- Innovation.
- Service orientation.
- Strong results delivery.
- Continuous learning and professional development.
Fellowship Benefits
The WIPO Fellowship provides a comprehensive support package, including:
- Monthly stipend of CHF 6,000.
- Fellowship duration of up to 12 months, with the possibility of renewal.
- Placement at WIPO Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.
- Expected start date of 1 October 2026.
- Travel assistance for arrival and departure.
- Support with obtaining a Swiss entry visa when required.
- Medical insurance contribution.
- Accident insurance coverage throughout the fellowship.
- Assistance in obtaining a Swiss residence and work permit (“Carte de Légitimation”).
The fellowship offers valuable international exposure while enabling participants to build expertise within one of the world’s leading organizations in intellectual property and knowledge management.
Important Information
Applicants should note the following:
- The fellowship is conducted entirely on-site in Geneva and is not available remotely.
- Fellows are not considered WIPO staff members.
- Participation does not create future employment rights within WIPO.
- Applicants are responsible for any personal tax or social security obligations arising from the fellowship.
- Shortlisted candidates must submit copies of identification documents and accredited university qualifications before appointment.
- Additional assessments or interviews may be conducted during the recruitment process.
Diversity and Equal Opportunity
WIPO is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. Applications are welcomed from qualified candidates across all regions, particularly individuals from underrepresented Member States and geographical regions. Applications from persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged, and reasonable accommodations will be provided during the recruitment process where necessary.
Application Deadline
Interested applicants should submit their applications before:
Deadline: 6 August 2026 (11:59 PM local time of the applicant’s location)
This fellowship presents an outstanding opportunity for professionals interested in knowledge management, digital libraries, research analytics, and international public service to strengthen their careers while contributing to the global intellectual property community.
