Deadline: July 31, 2025
The Young ICIMOD Professionals Programme 2025/2026 is now accepting applications from early-career professionals passionate about sustainable mountain development in the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region. This exciting opportunity—offered by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD)—provides immersive, hands-on experience in an interdisciplinary, multicultural setting.
If you’re ready to accelerate your career while tackling some of the region’s most pressing climate, environmental, and livelihood challenges, the Young ICIMOD Professionals Programme 2025/2026 may be the perfect fit.
About the Programme
The Young ICIMOD Professionals Programme (YIPP) is a flagship talent development initiative hosted at ICIMOD headquarters in Kathmandu, Nepal. It’s designed to equip young professionals with practical research, policy, and project skills related to sustainable development in the HKH region.
The 2025/2026 edition of YIPP aligns with ICIMOD’s Medium-Term Action Plan V (2023–2026), advancing regional impact across areas like climate resilience, biodiversity, gender equity, and innovation.
Application Deadline
- 31 July 2025 at 23:59 NST (Nepal Standard Time | UTC +05:45)
Who Can Apply?
This programme targets early-career professionals from ICIMOD’s Regional Member Countries (RMCs):
- Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan.
Exceptional applicants from outside these countries may be considered if they demonstrate relevant regional expertise.
Minimum Eligibility:
- A Master’s degree in a related discipline (environmental science, social science, development studies, etc.).
- 2–3 years of professional experience.
- Strong research, analytical, or project implementation skills.
- Fluency in English; knowledge of other regional languages is an asset.
- Ability to work effectively in cross-cultural, interdisciplinary teams.
Structure of the Programme
- Duration: 12 to 18 months (starting late 2025)
- Location: ICIMOD Headquarters, Kathmandu, Nepal
- Positions Available: Approximately 10, distributed across both Thematic Action Areas and Organisational Units
Thematic Action Areas (1 placement per area):
- Cryosphere & Water
- Air Quality
- Livelihoods & Enterprises
- Landscapes
- Regional Action
- Global Advocacy
Organisational Units (1 placement per unit):
- Human Resources & Organisational Development
- Communications
- Strategic Results, Partnerships & Business Development
- Living Mountain Lab
Key Responsibilities
YIPP participants will contribute to one of ICIMOD’s priority teams and will be exposed to:
- Applied research and knowledge generation
- Field-based projects and stakeholder engagement
- Interdisciplinary collaboration across environment, economy, and equity domains
- Cross-cutting issues such as gender equality, youth empowerment, and climate resilience
Participants will also provide:
- Monthly updates on learning progress
- A final presentation to ICIMOD senior leadership
Compensation and Benefits
- Annual Salary: Approx. USD 16,487 (net)
- Housing Allowance
- Health and accident insurance
- Travel support (where applicable)
- Tax exemption for non-Nepali nationals
Summary at a Glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Deadline | 31 July 2025 |
| Duration | 12–18 months |
| Location | Kathmandu, Nepal |
| Eligibility | Master’s degree + 2–3 years experience |
| Open to | RMC nationals; others with relevant ties |
| Positions | ~10 total |
| Salary | USD 16,487 + benefits |
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted via ICIMOD’s online recruitment portal. Candidates must indicate their preferred Action Area or Unit and tailor their cover letter accordingly.
👉 Click here to apply
👉 Read more about the programme
Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
Why You Should Apply
Participating in the Young ICIMOD Professionals Programme 2025/2026 is more than a job—it’s a springboard for future leadership in climate action, sustainable development, and regional cooperation in Asia’s mountain regions.
If you’re committed to contributing to a better HKH, this opportunity places you at the heart of transformational change.
Need help with your application?
For expert support with proposal drafting, refining, and review, contact grantsdatabase.org.
