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. Many of IIASA's National Member Organizations (NMOs) provide special grants to enable young scientists from their countries, or foreign students studying in their country, to participate in the program. 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 (including Nobel and Schumpeter Laureates). 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. Podcasts of selected lectures given by distinguished academics during the 2006 and 2007 Program are available.

Since the beginning of the Program in 1977, 1413 participants from 72 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 that are awarded to participants whose participation and research are considered exceptional. The awards 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 2009 program will open on 1 October, 2008.

Responsible for this page: Barbara Hauser
Last updated: 25 Jun 2008