Job Description

Young Professionals Programme in Science and Engineering

 

Applications deadline: 09.03.2026

 

Are you a recent graduate interested in the world of intellectual property and looking for your first employment experience?
The European Patent Office (EPO) invites applications for the Young Professionals Programme, starting in September 2026. Young Professionals are recruited across a wide range of technical and corporate areas and will work at one of the EPO’s sites in Munich, The Hague, Vienna, Berlin or Brussels.


The programme is designed to attract and develop high-potential graduates who are motivated to grow, take on responsibility and contribute in a complex, international environment. It offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience, apply academic knowledge in a professional setting, and develop skills that are relevant across disciplines.
Depending on the assignment, Young Professionals contribute to meaningful tasks and deepen their understanding of how intellectual property is applied in practice within an international organisation.

 

 

Opportunities in the Patent Granting Process 

 

In the Patent Granting Process, Young Professionals work alongside experienced patent examiners, supporting the examination of European patent applications across a wide range of technical fields. The role offers close exposure to innovation while building a solid understanding of how technical expertise is applied in the patent system. 

 

As a Young Professional in PGP, you will: 

  • Engage with cutting-edge technologies across your technical field 
  • Support the technical analysis of patent applications, including descriptions, claims and drawings 
  • Develop an understanding of patent law, international procedures and intellectual property rights 
  • Apply your scientific or engineering background in a structured, analytical environment 
  • Learn through close collaboration with experienced colleagues in one of the EPO’s technology communities 

 

This pathway is particularly suited to graduates who enjoy working in depth with complex technical information, value structured problem-solving, and are curious about how innovation is assessed and protected at a European level.  

 

 

Opportunities in corporate Science and Engineering areas 

 

In addition to the Patent Granting Process, this vacancy also contains several Science and Engineering opportunities in corporate areas of the EPO. Depending on the department, your role may involve, for example: 

 

  • Supporting sustainability and energy-related initiatives, including monitoring and analysing energy consumption data, contributing to energy efficiency projects, and assisting with sustainability reporting and certifications
  • Contributing to data analysis, reporting and forecasting activities, including performance monitoring, dashboards, operational planning and decision-support tasks
  • Supporting planning, controlling and quality-related activities, including process optimisation, documentation, compliance support and coordination across teams
  • Assisting with building operations, maintenance and renovation projects, including commissioning and handover of systems, facility management support, and technical documentation
  • Contributing to digital, data science or AI-related activities, including supporting the development, use or adoption of tools that enhance patent information systems and internal services
  • Supporting sustainability-related initiatives, including environmental projects, sustainability reporting and certifications 

 

 

List of departments offering a seat for a Young Professional

Check this list including department descriptions and example projects. You may 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 up to two additional years on the programme 
  • Benefit from a tailored training and development programme, covering IP-specific topics, language learning and career guidance 
  • Learn on the job, supported by a tutor and experienced colleagues 
  • Work with colleagues from a wide variety of cultural and professional backgrounds 
  • 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 

 

Programme requirements 

You should apply if you meet the following criteria: 

  • You come from one of the listed universities 
  • You are a national of one of the EPO’s member states 
  • You hold at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent 
  • You have excellent knowledge of one of the EPO’s official languages (English, French or German) 

 

We are looking for talented graduates with the potential to grow, strong analytical thinking, and the ability to contribute effectively in a collaborative working environment.

 

Learn more about the programme

 

Application process 

 

  • Application deadline: 09 March 2026 
  • Online interviews: April and May 2026 
  • Results announced: June 2026 
  • Programme start date: 15 September 2026 

 

 

Please note that you may only apply for one programme vacancy pool (e.g. Science and Engineering, Law, Economics and Finance) and should indicate your preferred department within that area. This does not limit consideration for other departments or areas if a suitable match is identified. 

 

 

Key information 

 

Net (basic) monthly salary: approx. EUR 2 300* 

Duration of appointment: one year (full-time) 

Location: Office-wide (Munich, The Hague, Vienna, Berlin, Brussels) 

 

 

* Average across sites; net amount after deduction of EPO-internal tax and staff contributions to 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.
Information at a Glance
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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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