Global Innovation Index Fellowship 2026/2027 | Call for Applications

Applications are open for the Global Innovation Index (GII) Fellowship at the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). The fellow joins WIPO’s Composite Indicator Research Section in Geneva. This section publishes the flagship Global Innovation Index. The fellowship offers hands-on experience in innovation data and economic research.

Program Snapshot

• Host Organization: World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)
• Funding: Monthly stipend of 3,300 to 6,000 CHF, based on qualifications
• Duration: Up to 12 months, extendable to a maximum of three years
• Start Date: January 4, 2027
• Location: Geneva, Switzerland; on-site only
• Eligibility: Master’s degree in economics, statistics, data science, or a related field
• Application Deadline: October 30, 2026

Focus Areas

• Innovation data collection and analysis
• Composite indicator development
• Data visualisation and dashboards
• Innovation policy and ecosystems

About the Fellowship

The fellow supports research on global innovation trends. They help collect, audit, and process the data behind the GII. They also contribute to the Global Innovation Tracker and the annual report. The role includes project management and dissemination work. The fellow reports to the Senior Economist of the section.

What Fellows Receive

Fellows receive a monthly stipend set by qualifications and experience. WIPO contributes to travel costs at the start and end of the fellowship. It also contributes to medical insurance and provides accident coverage. WIPO may assist with Swiss entry visas. Fellows receive a “carte de légitimation,” which serves as a residence and work permit.

Who Can Apply

Applicants need a master’s degree in economics, statistics, data science, or a related field. They need strong experience with large datasets and indicator development. Proficiency in R or Python is essential. Experience with GitHub, AWS, and MySQL is required. Excellent English is also required.

Required Materials

Applicants apply through WIPO’s online recruitment portal. Shortlisted candidates provide ID and degree certificates. Interviews or additional testing may follow. Initial appointment depends on satisfactory professional references.

How to Apply

Submit your application through WIPO’s portal before October 30, 2026.

Click Here to Apply

Conclusion

This fellowship offers data professionals a paid role inside a leading UN agency. Fellows are not WIPO staff and gain no employment rights. Applicants must be able to work in Geneva in person. Confirm full terms through WIPO’s official job listing.

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