Leibniz Institute for East and Southeast European Studies (IOS)

The Leibniz Institute for East and Southeast European Studies (IOS) is one of the largest and longest established research institutions of its kind in Germany - its foundation dates back to 1930. Since 2017, the IOS has been a member of the Leibniz Association and thus part of a leading network of scientific institutions. Among others, historians, economists and political scientists work at the IOS. The institute researches the history as well as the economic and political development of Eastern and Southeast Europe, with a focus on the period since around 1800. Its multidisciplinary research focuses on transnational and comparative issues.

Along with its own basic research, the Institute's work also focuses on scientific infrastructure services. These include the management and publication of journals, book series, working papers and fundamental works, a specialised library with more than 340,000 media resources and a wide range of electronic services (repositories and research platforms).

The IOS considers itself a networking institute. It cooperates in particular closely with the University of Regensburg with which it established the Leibniz ScienceCampus "Europe and America in the Modern World" in 2019. It also maintains close cooperation with other institutions of the Leibniz Association. Furthermore, there are numerous partners at a national and, above all, international level with whom the IOS jointly implements its research and infrastructure projects. Due to ist fellowship programme, the institute hosts numerous international scientists who work on their projects at the IOS.

An important aim on the agenda of the IOS is the support of young scholars, in particular through the mentorship of doctoral and post-doctoral students. The IOS cooperates closely with the Graduate School for East and Southeast European Studies established in 2012 as part of the excellence initiative. In addition, IOS staff members teach in various degree programs at universities in Germany and abroad.

The IOS‘ central task is to provide knowledge about the region, from political consulting to public events. By organizing numerous scientific events, it has further evolved into an internationally visible place of academic dialogue.