Are you a PhD student working on climate, energy, food, water, population or other big global challenges? The International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) runs the Young Scientists Summer Program (YSSP), a three-month research programme in Austria where about 50 doctoral researchers from around the world work on their own projects alongside IIASA scientists. The 2027 programme runs from June to August 2027, and applications close in January 2027.
Programme at a Glance
- Organiser: International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA)
- Location: Laxenburg, Austria (about 30 minutes from Vienna), in person
- Dates: 1 June to late August 2027 (about three months, full-time)
- Cohort: Around 50 doctoral researchers
- For: PhD students in fields linked to IIASA’s research
- Funding: Mainly through IIASA member organisations (see below)
- Reported deadline: January 2027 (listings give 10 or 15 January; confirm on the official page)
About IIASA and the YSSP
IIASA is an independent international research institute that studies complex global problems using “systems analysis”, looking at how energy, climate, food, water, ecosystems, population and economies affect each other. The YSSP has trained thousands of early-career researchers, many of whom now lead research and policy work worldwide.
The summer is split roughly into 70% mentored research on your own project, 20% training (seminars and skills sessions) and 10% social activities with the international cohort.
Benefits
- Mentored research with IIASA scientists on your own PhD-related project
- Interdisciplinary training in systems analysis methods
- International network of about 50 PhD researchers from many countries
- Possible funding for living costs and travel, depending on your country (see below)
- Visa support: IIASA provides visa guidance to accepted participants who need it
How Funding Works (Read This First)
YSSP funding mainly comes from IIASA’s National Member Organizations (NMOs), the institutions that represent each member country. Most NMOs fund participants who are nationals of their country or studying there, though places can be limited.
- If your country is an IIASA member: you may be funded by your NMO if you are selected.
- If your country is not a member: you’ll usually need other funding. IIASA has offered a YSSP Fund for students from developing countries, and some participants are funded by their university or research grants.
Before you apply, check IIASA’s list of member countries and the funding options on the official YSSP page, so you know how your summer would be paid for. Stipend amounts vary by year and funder.
Eligibility
- You are enrolled in a PhD programme, ideally within one to two years of finishing.
- Your research fits one of IIASA’s research areas.
- You can develop your own research questions and work independently with a mentor’s guidance.
- You are interested in interdisciplinary research.
- Your English is good enough to work in the programme. It’s assessed in a short online interview, and no certificate is required.
- You can attend full-time and in person for the whole summer. Remote work isn’t allowed.
What to Expect Day to Day
- Working hours run Monday to Thursday 08:30–17:30 and Friday 08:30–15:00.
- You get 5 days of leave during the programme.
- Plan a few extra days before and after for travel and administration.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Match your project to an IIASA programme. Read the institute’s research programme pages and name the one your work fits best.
- Propose a focused summer project. Three months is short, so choose a clear piece of work you can finish.
- Talk to your PhD supervisor. Make sure they support you spending the summer in Austria.
- Sort out funding early. Check whether your country has an NMO, or look into other options before the deadline.
How to Apply
- Read the YSSP 2027 call and research areas on IIASA’s website.
- Check your funding options (your country’s NMO, or alternatives).
- Prepare your research proposal and supporting documents as listed in the official call.
- Apply online before the January 2027 deadline.
Confirm the deadline: Published listings give the 2027 deadline as either 10 January or 15 January 2027. Check the official page and aim to submit by 10 January to be safe.
Visit the official IIASA YSSP page
