Young Scientists Summer Program in Austria

Deadline: 11 January 2016
Open to: applicants from all over the world with research experience corresponding to a level typical of a researcher about 2 years prior to receiving a PhD
Fellowship: usually EUR 1,310 per month plus airfare

Description

The International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis is a scientific research institute located in Laxenburg, near Vienna, Austria. Founded in 1972, the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) conducts policy-oriented research into problems of a global nature that are too large or too complex to be solved by a single country or academic discipline. Since 1977, 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. Following areas of programme will be considered:

• Advanced Systems Analysis;
• Energy;
• Evolution and Ecology;
• Ecosystem Services and Management;
• Mitigation of Air Pollution and Greenhouse Gases;
• World Population;
• Risk Policy and Vulnerability;
• Transitions to New Technologies;
• Water.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the Program candidates should meet the following criteria:

• You should have research experience corresponding to a level typical of a researcher about 2 years prior to receiving a PhD or equivalent degree;
• A summer research proposal that clearly fits the interdisciplinary research agenda of a selected IIASA program; before starting your application we recommend to get in touch with representatives of the program(s) of your choice;
• Ability to work independently as well as to interact with other scientists;
• Fluency in English and the ability to communicate in a scientific environment;
• Applicants from all countries are welcome. However, IIASA gives priority to citizens or residents of countries in which IIASA has a National Member Organization (NMO);
• Applicants must commit to staying for the entire program. Up to five days of leave may be approved by supervisors for participation in conferences and/or for personal reasons.

Fellowship

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 1,310 per month plus airfare. If you are not citizen of or resident in an NMO country you must find alternative funds to finance participation. 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.

How to apply?

The deadline for applications is 11 January 2016. To apply please submit your application online HERE. The following steps will guide you through the process:

• Create a new application – this option allows you to start a new application, and it requires only your name, an Email address and a security question. Your Email allows you to prepare and edit the application.
  Until the application deadline you can create a new application, edit an existing application, and submit the completed application to the program;
• Fill in your application – the application requires filling in a number of boxes that ask you to provide data about your research interests, CV, motivation for applying to the program, and names of two references;
• Submit your application – when you submit your application you will receive a confirmation email and further instructions. Once the application is submitted, it cannot be changed.

Applications cannot be considered unless your reference letters have been received. Upon finalization of your application we will send requests for recommendation to the referees proposed by applicants. Candidates will be informed about acceptance of their applications by 11 March 2016.

For more information please visit the official website.