Applications for the YSSP 2026 are closed. The next round of applications for the YSSP 2027 will open in October 2026.

YSSP 2026 Application Milestones © IIASA


Apply today © IIASA

Who should apply? Apply if...

  • You are an advanced graduate student, ideally 1-2 years from PhD degree.
  • Your field of study complements research at IIASA (see below for some guidance)
  • You are interested in interdisciplinary research.
  • You would like to apply your research to global challenges facing society.
  • Your research and career would benefit from working alongside 50 young scientists, as well as senior researchers, from around the world.

Information on the YSSP Application Process:

1. If you are an advanced PhD student, check if your topic is compatible with ongoing IIASA research. You will need to submit a research proposal for the project that you will work on while at IIASA. The proposal includes the following elements: abstract, research questions, methods, data requirements, innovative aspects, and expected results. Please read the YSSP 2026 Application Guide, to know which information you will need to provide in the Onlyfy application portal.

How to figure out which IIASA program/research group best fits your PhD topic?
We recommend you familiarize yourself with IIASA research programs to better identify which one best suits your PhD topic. We also recommend looking at some of the recent YSSP projects which can be found here. 

We recommend that applicants identify the group(s) most aligned with their PhD research area and contact the respective IIASA program representative researchers well in advance of the submission deadline to express their interest and discuss their research ideas. This proactive approach is advised, as collaboration with one or more IIASA programs will be integral during the YSSP.

What makes a YSSP application succeed or fail?
Read our "How to Write a Successful YSSP Application" guidance document.

Please find below the list of programs with their corresponding research groups: 

2. Please note, YSSP is a three month (June-August), full-time program taking place at IIASA in Laxenburg, Austria. During this time, it is expected that you fully commit to the program. Following the three months on site, you have one additional month to finalize your YSSP report. 

3. The final application needs to be submitted by the deadline: 12 January 2026.

3. Please note that IIASA does not have laboratories, therefore is not suitable for those looking to undertake lab-based research. Furthermore, if you use empirical data in your research, it is expected that it has all been collected by the start of the YSSP, with ethical clearance obtained (if necessary). 

4. Participation in the YSSP is only possible for one summer (however, you may apply several times) and you will need to be present at the institute in Laxenburg, Austria, for the full duration, i.e., three months of the program (no fieldwork or working remotely). Also, please note your research project must be completed and handed in by end of September

5. Please note, if you are a current IIASA staff member, or at IIASA on a guest research contract, you may not apply to the YSSP.

The program is designed for advanced Ph.D. students working on a topic compatible with ongoing research at IIASA and wish to explore the policy implications of their work. Participants will be working under the direct mentorship of an experienced IIASA scientist in a unique interdisciplinary and international research environment. They will produce a paper (serving as a first step towards a publishable journal article) and get the opportunity to foster contacts for future collaboration within the institute's worldwide network.

Applicants can choose to work with up to two programs. We strongly encourage to carefully read through all program descriptions before making your decision.

Applicants from all countries are welcome, although IIASA gives priority to citizens or residents of Member Organizations (MO) countries.

Participation in the YSSP is only possible for one summer (however, you may apply several times) and you will need to be present at the institute (i.e. no fieldwork or working remotely) for the full duration of the program.

FAQ — Application process

Is there an upper age-limit for applicants?
No, there is no upper-age limit. The program is designed for advanced PhD students working on a topic compatible with the interdisciplinary IIASA research agenda.

How should I frame my research objectives?
You should look through the IIASA program webpages to get an idea what research is done at IIASA. To ensure reasonable supervision, your research should fit within the themes/expertise already ongoing at IIASA. It is a good idea to contact IIASA scientists directly to discuss your project. You may first want to start with the YSSP representative in each program.

Can I use a large language model (LLM) or generative AI tool (ChatGPT, NotebookLM, etc.) to prepare my application?
No, you are required to prepare and write your own application. The application form requires you to declare that you have not used such tools.

Can I apply if I am not coming from a Member Organization (MO) country?
Yes, we accept applications from all countries. Funding then needs to be covered through own sources. For exceptional cases, IIASA provides special funding as well. 

Can I apply even if I am not yet enrolled in a PhD Program?
No, the program is primarily designed for students in the latter stages of their PhD.

What are the dates of the program?
The program usually runs from the first week of June until end of August. Depending on weekends and holidays, the exact days may vary.

Do I have to be present at IIASA during the whole three months?
Yes. The YSSP is a full time activity. However, up to FIVE (5) leave days (working days) are granted and are subject to approval by your IIASA mentor.