History

The  National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS) was conceived and established  by the vision and initiative  of the late Mr.J.R.D Tata, who sought to create an institution which would conduct advanced research in multidisciplinary areas, and also serve as a forum that will bring together administrators and managers from industry and government, leaders in public affairs, eminent individuals in different walks of life, and the academic community in the natural and social sciences.

The objective of  the Institute has been to nurture a broad base of scholars, managers and leaders who may contribute effectively to tackling the complex problems facing contemporary India with intelligence, sensitivity, confidence and dedication.

The philosophy underlying NIAS is given shape by its research teams, which are drawn from a variety of disciplines in the natural and social sciences. The Institute is unique in its integrated approach to the study of intersections between science and technology, social issues and leadership.

NIAS is a (private) society registered on 20 June 1988 under the Karnataka Societies Registration Regulation Act. It is located on the campus of the Indian Institute of Science,Bangalore and was established in 1988 with Dr.Raja Ramanna as Director until his retirement in July 1997. Professor Roddam Narasimha was heading this Institute from August 1997 to March 2004. Dr K Kasturirangan was the director from April 2004 to August 2009. Dr V S Ramamurthy is currently the Director. The Institute is an autonomous organisation governed by a council of management.

Courses

NIAS conducts the following residential courses every year which are distinguished by their interdisciplinary character, and are taught by both Institute faculty and reputed guest lecturers from across the country. The earlier courses were based on the broad theme Integrated Approach to Knowledge and Information . The courses in the last few years have been based on more specific themes, but retain the broad multi-disciplinary approach.
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Conferences and Seminars

NIAS has an active programme of public lectures, conferences, seminars and workshops organized independently or jointly with other organisations. A wide spectrum of events are held ranging from major international meetings to informal discussion groups. NIAS has emerged as a key public policy forum in India contributing to informed national debate, and providing advice and consultancy  on critical national issues.

Associates' Programme

NIAS   maintains  a  strong   outreach    with  its  Associates' Programmes.  NIAS  Associates include  distinguished persons from   widely  different   backgrounds  in  the industry, government, media, the arts,   and   academia.  Associates join the faculty at  a monthly  meeting, which always includes a  lecture or some other important event. The Associates  constitute  a  strong  base  of  ongoing  outside support and interaction.
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Visiting Scholars

NIAS has openings for a limited number of  visiting professors who interact with the permanent faculty in planning and executing new or ongoing research programmes. There is  also a programme to encourage researchers,  from both India and abroad to come and work as visiting fellows/associates on specific research projects within the framework of the programmes of the Institute. Visitors generally have to secure support for their projects, but will have a chance to work closely with the permanent faculty.