The Institute of Advanced Studies started its activities in 2001. The Institute is directed by Professor Paolo Pombeni.
The Institute provides scholars and scientists of the University of Bologna with the instruments and the means to bring to Bologna visiting professors and junior scientists and to stimulate the circulation of ideas and the exchange of knowledge. Support to the participation of foreign students to local PhD courses is also supplied. The Institute is part of the Istituto Studi Superiori of the Alma Mater Studiorum Università di Bologna.