IIASA’s annual 3-month Young Scientists Summer Program (YSSP) offers research opportunities to talented young researchers whose interests correspond with IIASA’s ongoing research on issues of global environmental, economic and social change. From June through August accepted participants work within the Institute’s Research Programs under the guidance of IIASA scientific staff. The YSSP provides a unique opportunity for participants to

• advance their research under the direct supervision of an experienced IIASA scientist, and at the same time contribute to IIASA’s ongoing scientific agenda;
• broaden their research interests by working in IIASA’s interdisciplinary and international research environment;
• build contacts with IIASA’s worldwide network of collaborators and with other YSSP fellows.

What to Expect from the Program
Participants not only develop and expand their research topics, but also take part in an interdisciplinary program of lectures, discussion groups and seminars given by IIASA staff, Institute Scholars and invited speakers. The program offers a wide range of scientific events, including both social and natural sciences, and often with important policy dimensions. An optional curriculum helps students put their research into perspective and adds a philosophical edge.

Since the beginning of the Program in 1977, 1515 participants from 73 countries have benefited from collaborating with IIASA's scholars and enhanced their own perspectives and career opportunities.

Applicants to the YSSP prepare a research proposal that corresponds both to their professional plans and the agenda of their selected IIASA Program. Accepted applicants begin work before the summer by planning their research in close collaboration with their IIASA supervisors. Participants have an opportunity to present their research at an end-summer workshop. Completed research is generally disseminated through IIASA’s Interim Report series and peer-reviewed publications. These reports may also be considered for the Aurelio Peccei and Vladimir S. Mikhalevich Awards which provide an opportunity to return to IIASA for an additional three-month period during the following year.

Conditions of Participation
Participants are expected to be resident at IIASA for the entire 3-month period; June through August. Up to five days of leave may be approved by supervisors for participation in conferences and/or for personal reasons. Participants also agree to a timely submission of their research reports.

Application Period
Registration for the 2010 program will open on 1 October 2009. Closing date is 18 January 2010. Only complete applications received before 24.00 (CET) on 18 January 2010 will be considered. The on-line Application Form will be available on the YSSP website during the application period.

The summer program will run from 1 June until 27 August 2010. Candidates will be informed about acceptance of their applications by 10 March 2010.

Interested candidates should have research experience corresponding to a level typical of a researcher about two years prior to receiving a PhD or equivalent degree.

Candidates already holding a PhD degree (by 18 January 2010) are asked to consider applying to IIASA's Post doc Program

Responsible for this page: Sheila Poor
Last updated: 12 Jan 2010