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

All News | All Events

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

Sep22

Migration Research in Action: Student Networking and Panel Event

Tuesday, September 22, 2026 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM EDT Johnson Center, Room E, Third Floor.

Curious about what it is like to do research on migration and immigration? Join the IIR for Migration Research in Action, a student networking and panel event where student researchers will share what they are working on, how they got involved in research, and what they have learned along the way. We will have a moderated conversation and share helpful research opportunities and resources available at Mason. Come hear from fellow students, ask questions, meet others interested in migration research, and learn how you can get involved! Pizza and refreshments will be provided.

Details