Looking to kick-start your career at an international organisation?

Apply for a one year paid traineeship at the EPO - European Patent Office or the EUIPO - European Union Intellectual Property Office in the framework of the Pan-European Seal Professional Traineeship Programme, with the possibility for an extension for up to three years, based on merits and performance.

The 2026 application process is closed – please come back again in December 2026 to explore the possibilities for 2027!

 

Contents:

  • How to apply for EPO

  • How to apply for EUIPO

  • Materials and Links

     

How to apply for EPO

Video and info sessions for students and graduates:

Check out this VIDEO to get an insight into the Pan-European Seal Young Professionals Programme at the EPO.

By indicating your interest you will receive updates when the recruitment campaign begins: Register your interest

Who can apply?

To be eligible, you must: 

  • Be a national of one of the EPO’s member states
  • Hold a completed university degree from one of these universities at bachelor’s level or higher
  • Have excellent knowledge of one of the EPO’s official languages (English, French, or German) 

After you apply, your name will be shared with the university to confirm your application. 

How to apply:

  • Start your application online – this is the only way to apply.
  • Prepare your documents:
    • Write a motivation letter explaining why you want to join the programme.
    • Update your CV with your latest experience and achievements.
    • Include your degree certificate (or a Add a Declaration Form of Completion of studies if your degree is not available yet.
    • If selected, these candidates must submit their degree to the EPO before the start of the programme.
  • You have to apply directly to the EPO and upload application documents and proof of affiliation (degree, enrolment certificate).

TU Wien applicants are requested to send a copy of their application to rt@tuwien.ac.at.

In June 2026 the EPO will communicate the results to candidates. 
The internships will start 15 September 2026 and last for a period of 12 months.

Further information, Checklist, Benefits

Timeline, Selection Process, Application Page
 

How to apply for EUIPO

EUIPO: Click here for a  YouTube video about the EUIPO, click here for testimonials of the PES Programme

Please read through the guidelines and information provided below.

Who can apply?

By the start of the traineeship, eligible candidates

  • must possess the nationality of an EPO Member State  EPO member states
  • should hold a bachelor's/master's degree or be currently enrolled for PhD studies in a relevant field
  • should be excellent in at least one of the EPO’s working languages (English, French or German)

How to apply:
Send your full application via E-mail to rt@tuwien.ac.at containing:

  • English CV in Europass.
  • Motivation letter, clearly indicating the EUIPO as their choice for the traineeship.
  • Degree/Master diploma or proof of completion, indicating the final grade  (provisional certifications accepted)

Your name must be shortlisted by TU Wien or another university that is a member of the Pan-European Seal network

Each shortlisted candidate has to upload the final application at EUIPO.

In June 2026 the EUIPO will communicate the results to candidates. The internships will start 16 September 2026 and last for a period of 12 months.

Materials and links 

EPO:

EUIPO:

 

Kickstart your career in Intellectual Property (IP) with our Pan-European Seal Young Professionals Programme fpr up to three years. Vacancies open until15 March 2025 More information on: epo.org/young-professionals

epo.org/young-professionals