The foundational model for the Institute for Innovative Study (IIS) is very similar
to those used for the formation, in their time, of other institutes for advanced, exploratory research,
in particular those listed below.
The IIS is grounded and focused upon consciously and
deliberately linking basic, abstract, theoretical and speculative research with directed and focused goals of
linking theory with praxis, bridging from theoretical foundations to practical activities. Our goal is fruitful and meaningful
success in reasoning and experiment that enables the attainment of solutions for real-world problems and needs -
discoveries that are not only innovative and unique but pragmatic for our world of today and tomorrow.
In a very definite and deliberate sense, the Institute aims to grow and develop by synthesizing from the
experiences and developments of these and other centers.
- Institute for Advanced Study @ Princeton University
- Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics @ Waterloo University
- Clay Mathematical Institute @ Cambridge, MA
- Institute for Advanced Scientific Research @ Irvine, CA
- Fields Institute for Research in Mathematical Sciences @ University of Toronto
- Canadian Institute for Advanced Research @ Toronto, CA
- Picker Interdisciplinary Science Institute @ Colgate University
The Institute has developed over the course of several years as a synthesis of earlier projects and small
non-profit research organizations. Unlike many centers including those upon which it is philosophically modeled,
the Institute does not aim to build infrastructure and bring its members and participants into one physical place
on a permanent basis but rather to use its physical base as a hub for networked and collaborative activities
including team-oriented projects and seminars that take advantage of the resources provided by today's - and tomorrow's - means
of distance-based communication and collaboration.
The IIS is in the process of organizing its sponsors and benefactors, its faculty and staff, and its specific programs.
The seed-foundation for the Institute is LEAPS -
the Laboratory for Emergent
and Adaptive Processes and Systems -
which as of Spring 2011 is functional, prepared, with initial operational funding set in place, and seeking to establish a
"home base axis" of activity in close proximity and collaboration with colleges and universities in both the United States and
in other countries worldwide.
