The Institute for Russian and Altaic Studies (IRAS) was established in June 2003 to conduct specialized and comprehensive research on the language, literature, culture, society, institutions, history, economy, and politics of the Altai region, which spans Russia, China, Mongolia, and Central Asia, and, therefore, to contribute to the improvement of relations with the region through academic, educational, and business exchanges.
The institute tries to play a role as the hub of basic research and practical support on the region by providing academic research results and information on the Altai region to related organizations, academic institutes, companies, etc., carrying out various joint projects with them, and offering consulting and advisory services.