The YSSP is a three-month mentored research program. It consists of three aspects:

Mentored Research: Over three months, you will work with your IIASA mentor on a research project that opens up new ideas and perspectives. Together, you will shape a focused project that can be accomplished during the summer. It may contribute directly to your PhD—for example, laying the groundwork for a thesis chapter or research paper—or offer an opportunity to explore a new research direction. It is expected that approximately 70% of your YSSP time will be spent on this aspect.

YSSP Training Program - tailored to early career researchers to build their skills and knowledge through seminars, workshops, and talks. It is expected that approximately 20% of your YSSP time will be spent on this aspect.

YSSP social program - helps participants build connections within their cohort and across the institute. It is expected that approximately 10% of your YSSP time will be spent on this aspect.

Where

Participation is in person, at IIASA, Laxenburg, Austria.

Laxenburg can be reached via public transport in 30 minutes from Vienna.

When

  • 1  June – 27 August (3 months)
  • Note: Above are the program dates (inclusive).  You will need to schedule a few days either side of the program to allow for re-allocation to Austria and associated administrative tasks.

Working hours

  • The YSSP is a full- time program.
  • Participants are expected to be at IIASA during IIASA’s working hours: Monday–Thursday 08:30–17:30, Friday 08:30–15:00
  • Home Office: No

Leave

  • Particpants are allowed to take 5 days leave.

Working Language

The working language of IIASA is English. Participants must be proficient in English.

Applications do not need to provide proof of their English skills with a certificate –English proficiency will be checked via a short online interview.

Visa

For participants who need a visa to participate in the program. IIASA will inform you of the necessary visa process upon acceptance to the program.

Funding

IIASA does not charge a tuition fee to participate in the program.

Participants must however have sufficient funds to cover travel and living expenses ( we are currently recommending  approximately 1700 Euros/month plus travel cost to and from Austria).

Many of IIASA’s Member Organizations (MOs) provide grants to support participation in the YSSP. Eligibility depends on the relevant MO’s criteria, including nationality, residence, or country of study.

If you meet the funding criteria requirements of your Member Organization (MO), we will automatically submit your application for MO funding as part of the application process. You do not need to do a separate application.

Please note that Member Organization (MO) funding is limited. You may be accepted into the YSSP program, but your application to recieve Member Organization (MO) funding was unsuccessful.

If you receive funding from a  Member Organizations (MOs), you will receive around 1700 Euros / month for 3 months and the costs of return travel ticket  (plane or train or bus) (please note the exact amount varies slightly annually and between MOs)

Applicants who are not eligible for MO funding should explore financial support from their university or other sources.

Self-funded participants are welcome to apply.

 Limited IIASA funding may also be available for exceptional applicants. A separate application for this funding is not required).

 

Costs

IIASA does not charge a tuition fee to participate in the program.

Participants should budget for accommodation, meals, local transport, health insurance, and other personal expenses. Further information can be found here