Young Professionals Programme in Information Technology

The European Patent Office (EPO) invites applications for the Young Professionals Programme in Information Technology, 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 area of Information Technology

Depending on the department, your role may involve, for example:

• Supporting business analysis and process improvement activities, including analysing current processes, designing future-state solutions, gathering requirements and preparing related documentation
• Contributing to digital transformation and change initiatives, including collaboration with product, business and development teams to support the delivery of IT solutions aligned with organisational priorities
• Supporting data intake, data quality and data transition activities, including monitoring data flows, analysing issues, supporting system migrations and maintaining technical and process documentation
• Contributing to user experience, usability and accessibility initiatives, including supporting design systems, improving user journeys, developing onboarding materials and promoting adoption of digital tools
• Assisting with IT project and portfolio coordination, including maintaining overviews of initiatives, preparing reporting and supporting governance and decision-making processes
• Supporting IT service operations and technical environments, including documentation, coordination with stakeholders, and support for digital platforms, collaboration tools, and event or examination systems
• Contributing to data security, confidentiality and compliance-related activities, including supporting secure digital processes, reporting and audit-ready documentation

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.

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.

jobinfo@epo.org