About

Founded in 2006, Durham’s Institute of Advanced Study (IAS) is a home for growing big ideas.  We support a broad and inclusive interdisciplinary community from across the full spectrum of Durham academics, where different perspectives are brought together to develop creative approaches to interesting and important problems.   We welcome world-leading researchers to Durham, providing the time and space to work on projects and build future collaborations.

Up to 20 Visiting Fellows per year work individually and collectively, with each other and with Durham colleagues. Fellowships are offered both to established, globally-recognised scholars and earlier career researchers of outstanding promise. Each year focuses on several interdisciplinary projects, for which the Institute offers both preliminary and follow-up support. Visiting Fellows participate in a wide range of events, from public lectures to seminars and workshops.

The IAS also hosts an Associate Fellowship for Durham colleagues who are engaging with the IAS in forthcoming or recently completed interdisciplinary projects. Through its websites and newsletter, Transformations, the Institute connects Durham not only across departments and faculties, but also with a global College of Fellows.  Additionally, the Institute offers a top-level forum of public debate, enabling key-decision makers to discuss pressing policy issues with academic experts in an intellectually stimulating and unrestricted manner.

There are many ways to participate in the life and work of the Institute. We warmly welcome your involvement.