National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bangalore, is a concept mooted by the late JRD Tata, who visualized an institution to conduct advanced research in multidisciplinary areas and serve as a forum to bring together administrators and managers from the industry and the government, leaders in public affairs, eminent individuals in different walks of life and the academic community in the natural and social sciences.

The Institute’s objective is to nurture a broad base of scholars, managers and leaders who can make effective contributions in tackling the complex problems facing contemporary India with intelligence, sensitivity, confidence and dedication. The philosophy that governs the Institute’s diverse disciplines is evolved by its research teams, which in turn consists of subject specialists in 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.

The Institute was established in 1988 with the late Dr Raja Ramanna, former chairman of the India’s Atomic Energy Commission, as Director. It is located on the campus of the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. Prof Roddam Narasimha headed the Institute till March 2004. Currently Dr K Kasturirangan, former chairman of Indian Space Research Organization, is its Director. The Institute is an autonomous organization governed by a council of management.