
About the Issyk-Kul Institute
Pioneering interdisciplinary research at the intersection of complexity science, technology, and natural systems to address humanity's greatest challenges.
Our Mission & Vision
Advancing scientific understanding through innovative research and fostering global collaboration.
Mission
The Issyk-Kul Institute for Applied Complexity is dedicated to advancing our understanding of complex systems that bridge natural phenomena, technological innovation, and societal challenges. We conduct cutting-edge research that transcends traditional disciplinary boundaries.
Through rigorous scientific inquiry and international collaboration, we develop theoretical frameworks and practical solutions that address some of the most pressing challenges facing humanity in the 21st century.
Vision
To be a globally recognized center of excellence for complexity science, fostering innovative research that connects diverse fields and creates transformative solutions for complex global challenges.
We envision a future where our research contributes to sustainable development, technological advancement, and improved understanding of the intricate relationships between natural and artificial systems.

View from inside our research facilities toward Lake Issyk-Kul and the Tian Shan mountains.
Leadership Team
Our distinguished leadership brings together decades of experience in complexity science, research management, and international collaboration.

Dr. Elena Kozlova
Executive Director
Ph.D. in Complex Systems, Santa Fe Institute
Leading expert in network dynamics and emergent systems with over 15 years of research experience in complexity science.

Prof. James Mitchell
Research Director
Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics, MIT
Pioneering researcher in mathematical modeling of complex phenomena with extensive work in interdisciplinary collaboration.

Dr. Aida Nurbekova
Deputy Director
Ph.D. in Computational Biology, ETH Zurich
Expert in computational approaches to biological systems and their applications in understanding complex adaptive systems.
Advisory Board
Prof. Stuart Kauffman, Santa Fe Institute
Dr. Yaneer Bar-Yam, New England Complex Systems Institute
Prof. Dirk Helbing, ETH Zurich
Dr. Jessica Flack, Santa Fe Institute
Contact & Location
Located in the heart of Central Asia, the Issyk-Kul Institute serves as a bridge between East and West, fostering international collaboration in complexity science.
Get in Touch
Address
Issyk-Kul Institute for Applied Complexity
42 Akademik Razzakov Street
Cholpon-Ata, Issyk-Kul Region
Kyrgyz Republic
Phone
+996 (3943) 4-23-45
Research Collaborations
Visit Us
Research Environment
Situated at 1,600 meters altitude on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul, our institute provides access to pristine natural laboratories and serves as a neutral ground for international scientific collaboration across diverse research traditions.
Research Infrastructure
- • High-performance computing for complex systems modeling
- • Network analysis and data visualization laboratories
- • Field research stations for ecosystem studies
International Fellowship Program
Our fellowship program supports distinguished researchers, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students pursuing collaborative research that advances the frontiers of complexity science.
Fellowship Applications