Ness Labs launches IFIR to connect research with practice

The Institute for Integrative Research, a new non-profit arm of Ness Labs, launched at the Royal Society in London to turn scientific evidence into practical tools and policy guidance. The group will focus on interdisciplinary research, public engagement and partnerships with institutions, educators, employers and policymakers.

Why it matters: - IFIR is designed to move research out of journals and into classrooms, workplaces, technology decisions and public policy. - The new institute aims to make scientific evidence easier to use for policymakers, institutions and other non-academic audiences. - The launch reflects growing demand for research that can inform practical tools, guidance and implementation.

What happened: - The Institute for Integrative Research launched as a new non-profit research arm of Ness Labs. - The announcement was made on September 23 at the Hypercuriosity Symposium at the Royal Society in London. - The symposium brought together 40 scientists for morning research presentations and discussion. - Participants came from King’s College London, the University of Oxford, University College London, Queen Mary University of London, the University of East London and other institutions.

The details: - IFIR is an operating division of Ness Labs, founded by neuroscientist and researcher Dr Anne-Laure Le Cunff. - The institute will support academic research with a focus on policy work and practical tools grounded in scientific evidence. - IFIR’s work will include applied research and public engagement. - Its charter includes evidence reviews, whitepapers, implementation guides, educational resources, institutional guidance and other practical tools. - The institute will prioritize research that crosses disciplinary boundaries. - IFIR will focus on connecting scientific findings with real-world applications. - Its primary audience includes policymakers and institutions, plus educators, employers, researchers, practitioners, technology organisations and public bodies. - Institutions and researchers interested in partnerships can learn more at more information.

Between the lines: - The Royal Society event offered an early test case for the kind of interdisciplinary exchange IFIR wants to support. - IFIR’s structure suggests a model that blends research production with translation, implementation and outreach. - The emphasis on policy and practical guidance signals an effort to make research more actionable beyond academia.

What's next: - IFIR will pursue partnerships with institutions and researchers. - The institute is expected to develop evidence-based resources and policy-oriented outputs as it builds its research agenda. - Future work will likely center on interdisciplinary projects with direct real-world use.

The bottom line: - IFIR wants to be a bridge between academic insight and practical action, with a clear focus on policy, education and applied tools.