The Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities was established in 1969 to promote interdisciplinary research in the arts, humanities and social sciences at the University of Edinburgh.

It provides an international, interdisciplinary and autonomous space for discussion and debate. Since its foundation, more than 1,300 scholars from 67 countries have held Institute fellowships; and up to 28 Fellows are in residence at any one time. Housed in a secluded 19th-century courtyard overlooking the Meadows, the Institute is adjacent to most centres of University activity.