Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS)
Yana Zabanova is an accomplished researcher with a focus on EU hydrogen policy and renewable energy development in Russia and Central Asia. Currently serving as a Research Associate at the Research Institute for Sustainability since August 2021, Zabanova's interests include the geopolitics of energy transformation and the applications of the Advocacy Coalition Framework to energy sectors. Previous roles include a Visiting Fellow at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs, a Research Fellow at the Governance in Emerging Economies Research Group, and a consultant for various organizations focusing on energy dialogue and hydrogen development potential in Central Asia. Yana Zabanova is pursuing a PhD in International Political Economy at the University of Groningen and holds multiple degrees, including an MPP from the Hertie School and an MA in International Relations from Central European University.
Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS)
The Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) conducts research with the aim of investigating, identifying, and advancing development pathways for transformation processes towards sustainability in Germany and abroad. The institute was founded in 2009 as the Institute for Advanced Sustainability Studies (IASS) and has been affiliated with the Helmholtz Centre Potsdam - GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences under its new name since 1 January 2023 and is thus part of the Helmholtz Association. Its research approach is transdisciplinary, transformative, and co-creative. The Institute cooperates with partners in science, political and administrative institutions, the business community, and civil society to develop solutions for sustainability challenges that enjoy broad public support. Its central research topics include the energy transition, climate change and socio-technical transformations, as well as sustainable governance and participation. A strong network of national and international partners and a Fellow Programme supports the work of the Institute.