The European Patent Organisation is a public international organisation created in 1977 by its contracting states to grant patents in Europe under the European Patent Convention (EPC) of 1973. The European Patent Organisation has its seat at Munich, Germany.

The EPO offers several internships to graduates who have recently completed a degree in law, international relations, European affairs, economics, communication or marketing.

Description

Two internship periods are available each year as follows:

• March-June (closing date for applications: 31 October of the previous year)

• September-December (closing date for applications: 30 April)

Consult the vacancies on EPO’s website.

Internships are offered primarily in Munich, but also Vienna, La Hague and Brussels.

 The EPO makes a contribution towards living costs (on condition that they do not receive financial support from any other source). It does not cover any other expenses. Interns must provide evidence of health insurance.

Requirements

Applicants must:

• Hold a recognised university degree or equivalent qualification. Priority will be given to applicants who either already have a postgraduate degree or who are currently studying for one.
• Have completed their university degree no more than two years prior to the beginning of the internship.
• Have a very good knowledge of one of the EPO's official languages (English, French and German) and a good knowledge of another.
• Be nationals of one of the EPO member states

Applications

Apply using EPO’s online application form.

After submitting your application you will see a confirmation web screen. You will not receive a separate confirmation notification by e-mail. 

The form is in English, but you may complete it in French or German if you wish. You may submit your CV and/or motivation letter in any of these three languages.

Shortlisted applicants may be required to submit further supporting documents (e.g. university diploma) and may be interviewed by a tutor.

Please note that the EPO operates a strict policy of pre-employment screening for new staff. Before the screening process commences, you will be asked to give your written consent. Screening is pre-requisite. Those who do not give their consent will therefore not be considered.