YSSP - Young Scientists Summer Program

Advance your doctoral research and explore its relevance to global sustainability challenges. Join an international cohort of around 50 PhD researchers for three months of mentored research, interdisciplinary exchange, and professional development at IIASA.

About IIASA

The International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) is an independent, international research institute in Laxenburg, near Vienna, Austria. We advance and apply systems analysis to understand complex challenges, explore possible futures, and inform decisions across society, the economy, and the environment. Founded in 1972 to enable scientific cooperation across political divides, IIASA brings together researchers from around the world and serves as a platform for science diplomacy, building trust and cooperation to address shared challenges.

Your summer at IIASA

Since 1977, the YSSP has brought doctoral researchers from around the world together for a summer of discovery, collaboration, and new connections at IIASA.

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.

Your summer will extend well beyond your own project. Seminars, workshops, and talks will offer opportunities to develop your skills, explore other disciplines, and exchange ideas with fellow researchers. A dedicated social program will help you build friendships and professional connections across your cohort and the institute—relationships that can last long after the summer ends.

What you can gain

• Academic mentorship: Develop your project with guidance and feedback from IIASA researchers.
• Interdisciplinary perspectives: Exchange ideas with scientists working across disciplines on global challenges.
• Research and professional development: Build your knowledge and skills through the YSSP training program.
• International connections: Become part of a cohort of around 50 doctoral researchers and connect with the wider IIASA community.

Who should apply?

We welcome applications from PhD students around the world. You should:

• Be enrolled in a PhD program, ideally within one to two years of completing your degree.
• Propose research that connects with IIASA’s research areas.
• Be able to formulate research questions and work independently, with guidance from a mentor.
• Be interested in interdisciplinary research and the wider relevance of your work.
• Have sufficient proficiency in English to conduct research, discuss your work, and participate fully in the program.
• Be available to participate full-time and in person for the full program period (3 months, June, July & August)

Further information

• Detailed information
• How to apply & application process
• Funding