The Institute’s research activities are structured around a series of research programmes, each of which usually runs for 4–6 years. A nine-member board decides on the focus of activities and appoints the Institute’s director. The director formulates research programmes which are then approved by the board. The present research programme, Sweden and the Future, runs from 2009 to 2013.

Each research programme encompasses a number of projects focusing on more specific areas relating to the general research programme. These projects are undertaken by the various research groups working at the Institute.

Besides those in the general programme, other research projects are financed through external funding. The various research programmes often conclude with a public conference. The Institute’s researchers report and discuss their findings at regular workshops and seminars, and document their results in various types of publications.