Read some testimonials below to see how the YSSP has impacted participants from all over the world.
The YSSP has been one of the best experiences of my PhD. You get to spend one summer working with incredible people at IIASA and meeting a group of other ~50 PhD students from all over the world. You apply with a project proposal that can be related to your current PhD work - but it can also be something new. This proposal evolves based on feedback received from IIASA scientists, and then you go to IIASA to work on this project with them. At the same time, you spend a lot of time with other YSSPers, learning about different cultures, different projects, and different people. It was truly an unbelievable experience!
The YSSP helped me expand my research in new directions and understand how it could contribute to systems analysis. It was inspiring to work with an incredible group of scholars, and every conversation at IIASA was exciting because of their focus on projects with direct policy implications for building a sustainable and prosperous future. My experience at IIASA has left a lasting impact on how I approach my research.
My time at IIASA was truly extraordinary. Professionally, it was an intellectual stimulation of the highest level, offering daily vibrant exchanges with fellow YSSP peers, mentors, and IIASA researchers. As someone whose research falls mostly outside the typical scope of my faculty, IIASA’s focus on systems-thinking offered me the like-minded academic community I’ve been long seeking. Everything was interesting, everyone was brilliant, and to top it off - so very kind. We felt genuinely warmly welcomed at IIASA, and had so much fun together. Social activities were woven into the program both by the organizers and organically, by us. Vienna, though scorching in summer, offered endless opportunities to immerse oneself in its rich culture—music, art, and various festivals—and to escape into stunning nearby nature, just a short train ride away. IIASA’s festive summer events provided additional opportunities to casually connect. There really was never a dull moment. In retrospect, I think I was strongly motivated by a constant state of FOMO throughout the entire program! Our group was diverse in every sense, making every interaction curious and enriching. I know many of us formed bonds that will last long beyond the summer. IIASA’s mission is vital. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to contribute to its work, even in a small way, and to have been a part of such a unique and enriching program.
IIASA has a great reputation as a research institute – the guidance I’ve received from scientists at the institute with their experience and background, has been invaluable.
The IIASA YSSP offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with those who are directly involved with setting the stage for current debates on pressing environmental challenges.
During the YSSP I met so many talented and friendly researchers from such diverse scientific and cultural backgrounds. I feel like my time at IIASA will result in many future collaborations!
IIASA is a research powerhouse with many high-profile and well-established investigators, all at the same institute. The research done at IIASA covers many different programs and study areas, which simplifies and encourages collaboration.
IIASA has exposed me to world leading research and scholars in an environment where I felt empowered to really explore my topic.
The YSSP experience is what Ph.D. life should be: stimulating and rewarding work, incredible colleagues from all around the world, and a lot of fun.
My experience at IIASA helped me think more broadly about my career choices, and how my work can reach and interact with a broader community both inside and out of academia.
I got the complete package at IIASA: networking with brilliant people, learning advanced scientific approaches, and being exposed to a “think bigger and deeper environment.”