Discover why the Young ICIMOD Professionals Programme (YIPP) 2025–2026 is a game-changing, time-sensitive, and life-changing opportunity for early-career professionals passionate about sustainable mountain development. This fully-funded 12–18-month fellowship places motivated Master’s degree holders at the heart of the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) in Kathmandu, Nepal, empowering them to co-design and implement high-level policy, research, and field-based initiatives across the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region. YIPP is a transformational platform where emerging leaders contribute to mountain climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, water security, livelihoods enhancement, and regional cooperation. It’s not just a job—it’s an epic journey toward becoming a regional change-maker.
Participants will learn how real-world impact is made, engaging directly in ICIMOD’s Strategy 2030 mission through research support, policy briefings, capacity-building workshops, and stakeholder collaboration. This final call–urgently closing soon, with only a few slots available per program area. If you’re ready to act fast, apply now, and join free of cost a dynamic team driving a greener, more inclusive and resilient HKH future, your moment is here.
Located in the heart of Kathmandu, ICIMOD is the premier inter-governmental knowledge and learning centre addressing sustainable development challenges across the Hindu Kush Himalayan region—home to nearly two billion people and a hotspot of climate vulnerability . The Young Professionals Programme (YIPP) is ICIMOD’s signature way of cultivating the next-gen leaders by integrating them directly into strategic action areas and operational units including Cryosphere & Water, Air, Livelihoods & Enterprises, Landscapes, Regional Action, and Global Advocacy—or Units like HR, Communications, Partnerships and the Living Mountain Lab .
The programme is a transformational career-launcher offering hands-on exposure to ICIMOD’s research work: Fellows will contribute to cutting-edge data analysis, policy development, stakeholder engagement, and institutional learning. Typical responsibilities include supporting assigned action teams, conducting field-based research, preparing policy briefs, organizing workshops, and contributing to ICIMOD’s Strategy 2030 outputs on sustainable mountain development and climate adaptation .
Fellows benefit from robust professional development, including opportunities to lead thematic workshops, participate in regional projects, and connect with fellow researchers and decision-makers. Policies on gender equality, social inclusion (GESI), biodiversity, and climate action are integrated into all program activities .
This is a no-cost, fully-supported position—participants receive a competitive stipend, housing allowance, insurance coverage, and targeted support to ease relocation and focus fully on their roles . For expatriates, the tax exemption makes the compensation even more attractive.
Apply now to secure this unbeatable, high-impact opportunity. With slots limited to roughly 10 Young Professionals, it’s critical to register today, specify your preferred Action Area or Unit, and showcase why you’re uniquely equipped to drive sustainable change in the mountains. ICIMOD encourages diverse talent—especially women and those representing vulnerable communities.
International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD)
Requirement/Eligibility
Applicants must meet all of the following numbered criteria:
1. Hold a Master’s degree (e.g. environmental science, climate studies, policy, sustainable development)
2. Proficiency in English—both written and spoken
3. Aged under 35 with 2–3 years of relevant professional experience
4. Familiarity with Hindu Kush Himalaya region issues: climate resilience, biodiversity, water, livelihoods, or governance
5. Commitment to relocate to Kathmandu, Nepal for the duration of the program
6. Proven ability to work effectively in cross‑cultural, multidisciplinary teams
7. Strategic mindset with strong analytical and communication skills
8. Personal alignment with ICIMOD’s core values: integrity, inclusiveness, openness, ambition
9. Ability to support gender equality, social inclusion, and biodiversity in all tasks
10. Citizens of ICIMOD’s Regional Member Countries (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan); exceptional candidates from non‑RMCs may be considered
Duration/Stipend
Duration: 12–18 months, beginning August 2025
Stipend: Annual salary of USD 16,487, tax‑exempt for expatriates, plus benefits including housing allowance, insurance, and occasional travel support
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