National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS) was conceived and founded in 1988 by the late Mr. JRD Tata Tata, who sought to create an institution to conduct advanced multidisciplinary research. Housed in a picturesque green campus in Bangalore the Institute serves as a forum to bring together individuals from diverse intellectual backgrounds, in the natural and life sciences, humanities, social sciences, and conflict and security studies. The philosophy underlying NIAS is given shape by its multidisciplinary research teams. The Institute is unique in its integrated approach to the study of intersections between science and technology, philosophy, social issues and leadership. The objective is to nurture a broad base of scholars, managers and leaders who would respond to the complex challenges that face contemporary India and global society, with insight, sensitivity, confidence and dedication.