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Pan-European Seal Young Professionals Programme

in Science and Engineering

 

Applications deadline: 15.03.2025

 

 

 

Are you a young, aspiring professional interested in the world of intellectual property and looking for your first employment experience?

 

We are looking for young professionals to join the EPO’s Pan-European Seal Young Professionals Programme in September 2025. Young professionals will work at one of the EPO's sites in Munich, The Hague, Vienna, Berlin or Brussels.

 

The programme aims to identify and develop talent among Europe's brightest and highest-achieving graduates. 

In the area of Science and Engineering there are several departments offering various professional development opportunities and unique experience. Below you will find a summary of what is in for you. 

 

In the area of patent grant process you will work with an experienced examiner who will guide you through the patent grant procedure as you gain exposure to cutting edge technologies and develop a deeper understanding of patent law, international procedures and intellectual property rights in one of the EPO technology communities. 

 

Alternatively, working as an engineer in corporate area, depending on the department, your role may involve supporting sustainability initiatives by contributing to environmental projects and assisting with sustainability reporting and certifications. You could also play a role in data analysis, developing advanced analytics models to support strategic workforce planning. Additionally, you might gain hands-on experience in business intelligence and operational forecasting with the Boards of Appeal’s Planning and Controlling team. Involvement in major renovation projects within the Building Operations teams in Munich, Vienna, The Hague, or Berlin would provide exposure to facility management, project documentation, and technical system upgrades. Finally, you could collaborate on data science models and contribute to machine learning projects to enhance patent information systems.

 

For a full list of departments that offer a seat for a young professional, including their description and the young professionals’ projects, please click here. You can express a preference for one of the listed departments in your application. 

 

With us you will:

  • Enjoy a year-long paid programme in a field of interest – with the possibility to apply for additional two years on the programme
  • Benefit from a tailored training and development programme covering IP‑specific matters, language learning and career guidance
  • Learn on the job, supported by a tutor and experienced colleagues
  • Work with inspiring people from a variety of cultures
  • Gain hands-on experience in a dynamic and innovative environment
  • Feel empowered to grow in your role and take on responsibilities
  • Be among the first to see the latest inventions


Apply if you meet the following programme requirements:

 

We look for talented graduates who possess strong organisational, communication, and prioritisation skills, demonstrate problem-solving abilities, and uphold confidentiality. You should also thrive in a collaborative environment and enjoy working as part of a team.


Learn more about the programme


Application process:

  • Application deadline: 15 March 2025
  • Online interviews: April and May 2025
  • Results announced: by the end of June 2025
  • Programme start date: 15 September 2025

 

Please note that you may only apply for one area of the programme (e.g. Economics and Finance or Law), and should indicate your preferred department within that area in your application. However, this does not mean that you cannot be considered for other areas or departments. If a suitable candidate is not found for a particular department, applicants who preferred a different department or applied to another area may also be contacted.

 

Key information:

Net (basic) monthly salary*: approx. EUR 2 300
Duration of appointment: one year (full-time)

Location: Office-wide 

 

*average across sites, net amount after deduction of EPO-internal tax and after deduction of staff contributions to the social security and pension schemes

We welcome all applications for vacant positions. We consider each on its professional merits – regardless of your nationality, ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, parental responsibilities, age, religion or belief.

Six reasons to join us
✓ Experience unique on-the-job learning
✓ Benefit from a targeted personal development plan
✓ Enjoy a tailored employment package
✓ Get mentoring and guidance
✓ Join a great multicultural community
✓ Work on global pressing challenges

Who we are
We are the patent office for Europe. We are proud to deliver high-quality patents and efficient services that foster innovation, competitiveness and economic growth.

Our vision
We will empower and motivate our staff to set worldwide standards in intellectual property. Our Office will be effective and transparent, respond to the needs of our users and be agile in managing the changing demands and conditions of a dynamic global patent system. Our work will contribute to a safer, smarter and more sustainable world.

Our values
All our relationships within our Office and with partners around the world will prosper through trust, fairness, mutual respect, adaptability, collaboration and a commitment to excellence.

Our work environment
We believe that diversity is fundamental to our success. Our inclusive work environment respects, values and celebrates our individual differences. We want you to be yourself at work. Join us on this exciting journey to a more digital, collaborative and sustainable organisation.

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