Intellectual Property Advisor (LICA 9)

Organizational Context

The International Trade Centre (ITC), a joint UN and WTO agency, supports micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises in international trade. This role is part of a project funded by the EU to enhance Timor-Leste's economic integration and trade, focusing on aligning legal frameworks with international standards, including intellectual property.

Job Purpose

The purpose of this role is to support the development and implementation of Timor-Leste's national intellectual property framework. This involves assisting in the creation of an Industrial Property Code and its implementing regulations, and contributing to the establishment and operationalization of an Industrial Property Office. The role aims to ensure compliance with international agreements like TRIPS and ASEAN frameworks, foster local innovation, improve competitiveness, and support economic diversification through trade, aligning with national development objectives.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include assisting with the analysis of parliamentary procedures for the Industrial Property Code, preparing documentation for legislative engagement, and conducting research to ensure alignment with the TRIPS Agreement. The role involves drafting technical briefs, supporting the refinement of the Code and its implementing regulations, and providing guidance on phased implementation. Additionally, responsibilities cover contributing to the institutional setup and operational frameworks of the Industrial Property Office, providing on-the-job guidance to local officials, and assisting in organizing capacity-building activities on intellectual property and copyright law. Coordination with national stakeholders and development partners is also crucial.

Work Experience

A minimum of two years of experience in intellectual property or a related field is required. Experience with the WTO TRIPS Agreement, WIPO treaties, or ASEAN IP frameworks is essential. Experience supporting the establishment or operationalization of IP offices and working with government or international organizations is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, conceptual and analytical skills, research and analysis, data collection, problem-solving, planning and time management, teamwork, accountability. Fluency in Tetum and English is required; Portuguese is an advantage.

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