As part of Austria’s Digital Skills Initiative (DKO), the federal government has launched the “Digital Innovation School” doctoral program for IT professionals.
The “Digital Innovation School” at the Complexity Science Hub (CSH) in Vienna offers an interdisciplinary educational opportunity for IT professionals. The program aims to increase the number of IT experts in the country. The government initiative was presented in mid-April by State Secretary Claudia Plakolm, Education Minister Martin Polaschek, CSH President Stefan Thurner, and Advisory Board Chairman Hannes Androsch.
The Doctoral Program
The doctoral program will begin in fall 2024 with its first group of students. Each year, at least five exceptionally talented individuals are accepted. Students are not required to specialize in a specific field but can explore a variety of topics and disciplines, including data science, network analysis, and complexity research.
Students also have the opportunity to gain practical experience by translating research findings into real-world applications or policy concepts. This is facilitated through partnerships and internships with government agencies or companies.
Target Group
The program is aimed at students with backgrounds in natural sciences, social sciences, or mathematics who already have experience in quantitative methods. Applicants should be willing to relocate to Vienna, where the program is based.
Background
On December 7, 2022, the Digital Skills Initiative (DKO) was launched as a joint effort by four Austrian ministries. The DKO is part of the European “Digital Skills and Jobs Coalition” (DSJC) and aims to make Austria a leading country in digital skills within Europe. This includes promoting and training IT experts.
The “Digital Innovation School” supports the strategic goal of the DKO to increase the number of IT experts. The program is offered in collaboration with CSH’s partner universities and is carried out by the Medical University of Vienna, one of the key founding partners of the CSH.
Source: European Digital Skills & Jobs Platform
