IST Austria is a multidisciplinary research institution that combines basic science with graduate (PhD) education. The scientists perform theoretical and experimental research in biology, neuroscience, physics, chemistry, mathematics, computer science, and related fields. They are organized in small to medium-size research groups ( ≤ 15) that interact with each other, also across the boundaries of traditional disciplines. Shared scientific facilities concentrate cutting-edge equipment, technical and scientific expertise in bio-imaging, (cryo)electron microscopy, nanofabrication, scientific computing, life science, NMR, chemistry, and pre-clinical studies. In 2019, the Nature Index ranked IST Austria No.3 among the world’s best research institutes (normalized by size). Technology transfer and startups are supported by the IST Park. Energy research is currently followed in two groups, focusing on rechargeable batteries and thermoelectrics.