Transdisciplinarity and Complex Systems

The chair “Transdisciplinarity and Complex Systems,” offered by Iméra in partnership with the Excellence Chair “t-co.re@AMU” (Transdisciplinarity and Complexity Research at AMU) aims to support excellent interdisciplinary research focused on complex systems. The main goal is to rethink science and how “complexity science” do influence our understanding of the world and complex systems. It will do so by promoting projects that combine theoretical research with practical application, through a rewarding interdisciplinary perspective.

Conditions of the residency and application for 2025-26

Recommendations for submitting an application under the “Interdisciplinary Explorations” program

1. The research project must be relevant for a research stay at an institute for advanced study based in Marseille.

2. The research project must cove with one or more of the thematic areas of the Interdisciplinary Explorations program.

Chair’s objectives

Iméra, the Institute for Advanced Study at Aix-Marseille University, in cooperation with the “t-co.re@AMU” Excellence Chair and its network, offers a 10-month chair to researchers from all disciplines. Particular interest is given to philosophers, physicists, mathematicians, biologists, neuroscientists, sociologists, environmentalists, and economists working on the structures and dynamics of complexity. The aim is to promote an outstanding research focused on interdisciplinary and critical approaches to complex systems. The specific objective is to develop research in the following areas of complexity science:

1. The philosophical and scientific history of the concept of complexity;
2. Epistemology and the theory of complex systems;
3. Complexity and information theory;
4. Modeling practices;
5. Applications of complex modeling;
6. The theory and practice of inter-/transdisciplinarity in the field of complexity.

The goal is to critically and explicitly foster interdisciplinary research and reflection on complex systems and how “complexity science” is reshaping our understanding of science and our approach to the world.

Priority will be given to research projects in one of these thematic areas, with the intention of developing ambitious future projects or producing high-quality publications in these fields.

Special consideration will be given to:

• Researchers who have critically examined the concept of complexity in one or more of the mentioned fields;
• Researchers who have produced innovative and original results in their field and wish to pursue more general theoretical reflection on the epistemological foundations of their scientific practice in relation to complexity;
• Researchers interested in how interdisciplinary dialogue can enrich their own discipline, influencing the formulation of new problems and scientific inquiries;
• Researchers who intend to transfer knowledge from their own field of complexity research to practical applications, education, and the interaction between science and society.

Eligibility

Applications are open to researchers in any field related to the “Transdisciplinarity and Research on Complex Systems” Chair and its partners. Potential collaboration with Iméra, “t-co.re@AMU”, and one of its partners is encouraged.

Applicants must meet all of the following four requirements :

1. To show scientific excellence in a field related to complexity;

2. Not have resided in France for more than twelve months in the three years preceding the application;

3. Hold a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree;

4. Be employed by a foreign university or research institution during the residency (permanent or temporary position).

Accomodation and compensation

The Chair holder will receive a monthly allowance of €2.500 and will be provided with free accommodation at the Iméra residence and reimbursement for travel expenses.