The Advancing Systems Analysis (ASA) Program welcomes expressions of interest from researchers at all career stages who wish to collaborate with us in advancing data, methods, and models as well as inter- and trans-disciplinary research to tackle the complexity of pressing sustainability challenges.

Specific opportunities include:

  • If you are a master’s student in Austria or other countries studying applied mathematics, computer science, geography, environmental science, economics, political science and relevant disciplines, consider applying for internship with ASA. To apply, reach out to an ASA researcher to discuss potential supervision or contact ASA Program Director Elena Rovenskaya.
  • If you are a PhD student interested in studying complex socio-environmental systems or science-policy research, consider applying to IIASA’s Young Scientists Summer Program. We welcome applications on the broad range of topics falling within the focus of ASA’s research groups (CAT, EM, NODES, SYRR). In 2026, our priority topics include (but not limited to!) the following: 
    • Novel modelling methodologies:
      • Using LLMs to interface between humans and models 
      • Using LLMs to create models 
      • Using the Complex Adaptive Systems lens to model socio-economic systems
    • Novel use of data:
      • Predicting global inequality using advanced machine learning and satellite imagery to identify spatial and temporal patterns in development.
      • Integrating citizen science data to enhance AI models that address global sustainability challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and disaster resilience.
      • Leveraging digital data streams — including internet searches, social media, news, and policy documents — to monitor social dynamics, public sentiment, and emerging global concerns. 
    • Novel stakeholder engagement approaches:
      • Exploring gamification and interactive platforms to motivate behavioral change and foster public participation in sustainability transitions
      • Developing participatory AI tools that engage local communities in co-producing data and models for policy-relevant decision-making.
    • Novel policy challenges:
      • Assessing and modelling risk (disaster, climate, heath, others) with focus on systemic and multi risk
      • Assessing adaptation limits and tipping points, incl. habitability
      • Understanding and identifying options for fostering resilience
      • Assessing finance and other policy options for managing risk
      • Assessment methods and governance for the Polycrisis

                The 2026 application deadline is 12 January 2026. Apply here.

  • If you are a postdoctoral researcher, consider IIASA’s postdoctoral fellowship opportunities, which may vary year to year including specific national calls. Stay tuned and reach out to ASA researchers whose work aligns with your interests before applying to discuss your application.
  • If you are a researcher seeking a host for your sabbatical, we invite you to explore opportunities with the ASA Program. Reach out to ASA researchers with aligned interest or contact ASA Program Director Elena Rovenskaya to discuss potential collaborations.  We also welcome guest researchers to join us on a temporary basis for various lengths of time.