The Institute is conducting research projects in international, national and regional settings. In the context of international research communities, such as the European Group for Integrated Social Research (EGRIS) and the International Sociological Association (ISA), OeIJ concentrates on different topics concerned with girls/young women or boys/young men. On the national and regional level, OeIJ works primarily with syndicated youth groups and organizations involved in institutionalized or open youth work.

OeIJ seeks to connect theory and practice first through teaching assignments, lectures, workshops, and counselling designed for practical youth work, politics, and research. In addition, OeIJ publishes regularly in relevant journals and releases its own publications.

Since international research cooperation is becoming increasingly relevant in the integrated Europe, OeIJ hosts a yearly international symposium on youth research with renowned international researchers and guests. The symposium, which was established in 2004, facilitates cooperation and exchange of information between researchers, youth workers and politicians, enables international networking and allows for fundamental examination of topics relevant to young people in research and society.