The Institute for Advanced Study is one of the leading systemwide interdisciplinary institutes at the University of Minnesota and has supported well over 800 scholars, artists, practitioners, and students from many disciplines throughout their careers since our founding in 2005. 

As the only institute committed to exploring any topic or theme, we invest in people and incubate innovative projects. We guarantee time and space for creative exploration and research to expand unfettered, provide expertise and resources to ensure projects succeed, and utilize our unique position within the University to accomplish work that would otherwise be impossible within standard departmental structures. 

We believe that the most transformative work happens through collaboration across disciplines and perspectives. By building interdisciplinary networks and meaningful relationships both throughout the University system and on a global scale, we transform how research and creative work is done across the humanities, arts, sciences, and social sciences. Our open environment is designed to spark unexpected connections and groundbreaking ideas. We believe that collaboration across and beyond disciplines is the strongest path to confronting the world’s challenges.

A home for all kinds of works in progress, the Institute for Advanced Study nurtures an ethos of curiosity, growth, and generosity. Our work is powered by a commitment to collaboration, creative problem-solving, and serving the common good. We dedicate this space to interdisciplinarity and all those eager to think outside the box.