1.    What type of organization is IIASA?

The International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) is an independent, non-governmental, non-profit organization constituted as an association within Austria. It is funded primarily through contributions from its Member Organizations (MOs) and through grants, contracts, and collaborations with other institutions. It focuses on interdisciplinary scientific studies to address global challenges, particularly those related to complex systems. IIASA conducts research that integrates natural and social sciences to inform policy solutions on issues such as climate change, energy systems, population dynamics, environmental sustainability, and economic development.

2.    What types of roles does IIASA offer?
IIASA offers a variety of roles across its interdisciplinary research programs and operational departments. These include:

Scientific (pre and postdoctoral) and research software professionals:

  • Experts and specialists in fields such as energy, climate, environment, ecology, biodiversity, demography, food, and water security.
  • Data scientists, statisticians, economists, and modelers.
  • Research software professionals supporting advanced modeling and analysis.
  • Postdoctoral researchers and PhD students contributing to cutting-edge projects.

Science communication and outreach:

  • Roles focused on translating scientific findings for policymakers, stakeholders, and the public.

Operational and administrative roles:

  • Opportunities in administration, human resources, finance, and ICT supporting the institute's functions.
  • Facility management roles, including cleaning and kitchen staff, on occasion.

All vacancies at IIASA are published on our job openings page.

3.    Does IIASA have an internship program?

Not as such. If having perused our website, areas of possible mutual interest are identified, programs and research groups may be contacted directly with research proposals. On occasion opportunities for paid internships in operational departments arise and are listed on our job openings page when available. Additional information on capacity development opportunities including our annual Young Scientists Summer Program (YSSP) and postdoctoral fellowships at IIASA can be found here.

4.    Does IIASA send out job alerts?

Yes, sign up here  to receive alerts about new job opportunities by email.

5.    Location

IIASA is located in Laxenburg, near Vienna, Austria. Laxenburg is a charming, historic market town, and our institute is surrounded by a beautiful park that provides a peaceful and inspiring backdrop for our work.

6.    Does IIASA offer remote or hybrid working options?

To take full advantage of all the benefits offered by the institute, candidates should be willing to relocate to Austria to take up employment with us. Working from home within Austria for up to 100 days per annum may be possible with the approval of supervisors.

7.    What is the working language of IIASA?

The working language of IIASA is English.

8.    What are the working hours at IIASA?

A full-time working week at IIASA constitutes 40 hours, however flexible, part-time arrangements can often be accommodated.

9.    Are tenures at IIASA limited?

The length of employment contracts varies depending on several factors and is clearly specified in our vacancy announcements. While open-ended contracts are common, durations may be limited in specific situations, such as research projects, due to available funding.

10.    What is the work culture at IIASA like?

We foster an environment that balances our commitment to research excellence with a friendly, supportive atmosphere. The dress code is casual, reflecting the relaxed and inclusive culture where everyone is encouraged to bring their authentic selves to work. Collaboration is at the heart of what we do—colleagues often team up on projects, share ideas, and enjoy spending time together both during and outside of work hours.

11.    Does IIASA award academic degrees?

IIASA is not a teaching institute and therefore not able to grant educational degrees. On occasion we offer opportunities which can be combined with doctoral studies, and where research carried out at IIASA may be used as part of a PhD thesis. 

12.    How does the job application process work?

Details can be found here.

13.    Can I apply for multiple positions?

Yes, but an application must be submitted for each position individually to ensure it will be reviewed by the recruiting team responsible for the respective opening.

14.    Can speculative applications be submitted?

Yes, follow this link to submit a speculative application which we can later assign to a specific opportunity.

15.    How is the interview process organized?

Interviews are conducted by a recruitment panel or selection committee made up of at least three IIASA representatives. Preliminary interviews are usually held online. Wherever feasible, subsequent interviews are held in person. There are generally two rounds of interviews.