Are you looking for an opportunity to gain experience in an international research environment? At the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA), we offer a select number of internships across different research programs and departments. Whether you're interested in research, science communication, external relations, or administrative support, our internships provide valuable insights and practical skills to help you advance your career while contributing to global research and policy initiatives.

Types of internships

  1. Research internships:
    • Engage in interdisciplinary research alongside our expert scientists. Research interns work on projects related to IIASA's core research areas such as environment, energy, and sustainable development. These internships provide hands-on experience in using cutting-edge methodologies to solve complex global issues.
  2. Communication and External Relations internships:
    • Science Communication internships: Develop skills in communicating complex systems science to diverse audiences through platforms like blogs, social media, and IIASA publications. These internships run from January to March and June to August.
    • External Relations internships: Focus on fostering relationships between IIASA, its member organizations, alumni, and other stakeholders. Tasks may include event support, engagement reports, and network facilitation. Available from April to June.
    • Science Diplomacy internships: Gain experience in bridging the gap between science, policy, and international relations. Work on engagements with international organizations, diplomats, and policymakers, helping to promote IIASA's research. Offered from September to November.
  3. Administrative internships:
    • Contribute to the essential operations of IIASA in departments such as Human Resources, Finance, ICT, and more. These internships provide valuable insight into the work of an international research institute and offer practical experience in a professional setting.

Internship compensation

  • Paid internships: In addition to a great experience, we offer a compensation which is exempt from income tax in Austria. All internships and temporary assignments are posted on our job openings page.
  • Unpaid internships: Offered to students whose study programs or schools require practical work experience (mandatory internship/Pflichtpraktikum). Although unpaid, it is a great opportunity to gain academic credit,  professional experience, networking opportunities, and more.

How to apply

Explore current paid internship opportunities and application details on our job openings page. We encourage you to check regularly for new postings as positions may be limited and highly competitive. You may also like to sign up to receive job alerts.

If you are able to identify areas of mutual interest within our research programs, please consider contacting the relevant research group(s)/program(s) directly with your proposal to see whether an internship can be accommodated.