International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) - 2025 Young Scientists Summer Program

Since 1977, IIASA’s annual 3-month Young Scientists Summer Program (YSSP) offers research opportunities to talented young researchers whose interests correspond with the institute’s ongoing research on issues of global environmental, economic, and social change.

IIASA offers PhD student fellowships to undertake a summer project on a topic related to the IIASA research agenda.

Annually, from 1 June to 31 August, IIASA hosts up to 50 doctoral students from around the world in its Young Scientists Summer Program (YSSP).

2025 YSSP: the application period will run from October 2024-January 2025.

Who should apply?

The program is designed for PhD students (ideally about 2 years prior to receiving their PhD) working on a topic compatible with ongoing research at IIASA and a wish to explore the policy implications of their work. Participants will be working under the direct supervision of an experienced IIASA scientist in a unique interdisciplinary and international research environment. They will produce a paper (serving as first step towards a publishable journal article) and will get the opportunity to build up contacts for future collaboration within the institute's worldwide network. 

Applicants can choose to work with up to two programs. If there is additional is interest in one of our flagship projects this can be indicated in the box provided in the application form (under "please justify your choice of programs here"). We strongly encourage contacting the various program representatives and 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 National Member Organizations (NMO) 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 field work or working remotely) for the full duration of the program.

Most of IIASA's National Member Organizations (NMOs) provide special grants to enable young scientists (either their own nationals or foreign students studying in their country) to  participate in the YSSP. The stipend varies slightly among NMOs, but usually it is EUR 1310 per month plus airfare. If you are not citizen of or resident in an NMO country you must find alternative funds (either from your home institution or other sources) to finance participation.  IIASA will finance up to 3 candidates from developing countries which are not members of IIASA (IIASA’s annual fund; Petr Aven Fellowship for exceptional scientists from Russia). 

IIASA does not charge a tuition fee. In general, participants are expected to cover all expenses associated with their stay (3 months rent; meals; local transportation; expenses for any accompanying dependents; and health insurance) from their NMO grant or their other funding source. 

What can I expect in terms of cost of living?

Vienna is an expensive place to live. If you have a choice between bringing something from home or buying it in Vienna, bring it with you. In comparison with the US, only beer is cheaper in Austria. Based on our experience students usually require a total sum of around €5,000 - €5,500 on average to cover all the living and travel expenses related to their YSSP participation over the whole summer.

Visa requirements

Please note that as a non EU ( EU/EWR/Swiss)  resident, you will need to apply for a D-visa. This D-visa will allow you to travel to Austria and to reside here during the YSSP period and will also allow you to travel to other Schengen countries. Accompanying family members will have to apply for C-tourist-visas and will only be able to stay in Austria for up to a maximum of 90 days. Participants from the EU and Switzerland will need to apply for an "Aufenthaltsbescheinigung". IIASA will initiate contact with the relevant embassy in your country. Do not get active until you hear from IIASA about further steps.