The Institute for Environmental Studies (Instituut voor Milieuvraagstukken, IVM) is an interdisciplinary research institute at VU University Amsterdam that sits within the Faculty of Earth and Life Sciences (FALW). Since its creation in 1971, we have built up considerable experience in dealing with the complexities of environmental problems. Our multidisciplinary research is organised in four departments: Chemistry and Biology, Environmental Economics, Environmental Policy and Governance and Spatial Analysis and Decision Support. Researchers also participate in twelve thematic research clusters. Teaching activities are coordinated by the Graduate Studies Team.