First, research is firmly embedded in international and national scientific co-operation with leading research institutions in the emerging field of sustainability science. Within this matrix, research takes place in PIK-projects which are defined to be temporary and interdisciplinary. Organizing Transdisciplinary Research - within a matrix of Topiks and Departments Research at PIK takes place in the form of interdisciplinary projects. The functions of the five scientific departments is to develop, maintain and support the resources for the research projects and to ensure the quality of the scientific results. The first two are rooted in the natural sciences, the third in the socio-economic field, the last two in what may be considered structure sciences, namely computer science and mathematics.
Current research is carried out in PIK-projects.
The PIK-projects are evaluated annually by the conference of department heads who report to the director. The PIK-research program is evaluated by the Institute's external Scientific Advisory Board, which advises the director and the Board of Trustees.