Institute for Immigration Research

Amplifying Research

Engaging the Public

Mentoring the Next Generation

Welcome to the Institute for Immigration Research!

The Institute for Immigration Research (IIR) contributes to a society where attitudes, policies, and rhetoric about immigrants and immigration are based on data, reason, and global contexts.

The IIR is a joint venture with The Immigrant Learning Center, Inc. (ILC) of Malden, Massachusetts.

The Latest from Institute for Immigration Research

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IIR Leaving and Belonging Symposium brings together arts and migration communities

George Mason University’s Institute for Immigration Research (IIR) hosted a two-day working symposium: Leaving and Belonging: Making an Impact on Immigration and Displacement through Arts, Culture, and Storytelling.

April 24, 2026

IIR Director, Dr. Lisa Gilman is quoted in The New York Times

IIR Director, Dr. Lisa Gilman is quoted in this latest New York Times article regarding the Nobel Prize.

December 10, 2025

Welcome Dr. Marissa Kiss, our new Assistant Director

IIR welcomes Dr. Marissa Kiss, the new Assistant Director. Dr. Kiss is looking forward to collaborating with students, staff, IIR Affiliate Faculty, and others to continue to advance initiatives that strengthen the IIRs mission as well as produce impactful and engaging research that informs policy and empowers communities.

December 3, 2025

Oct8

College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Fall for the Book: Annual New American Voices Award Ceremony

Thursday, October 8, 2026 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM EDT

Join Fall for the Book for an evening with three powerhouse finalists, Ada Ferrer, Bindu Bansinath, and Chantel Acevedo—and celebrate the winner—of the ninth annual New American Voices Award for immigrant writers.

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