Fundamental and applied research

Research at Inalco combines cultural areas and disciplinary fields. This cross-fertilization, which is particularly fruitful in scientific terms, concerns the study of languages as well as the history, geography, institutions and political, economic and social life of the countries and regions concerned.
Inalco's researchers and research teams work on all the world's major regions (Europe, Asia, Africa, the Americas, Oceania), taking a situated, thematic and (inter)disciplinary approach. Research is conducted by 14 teams, half of which are under joint supervision with the CNRS and IRD research organizations.

Séjour de terrain — Séjour en Chine de la chercheure Zhang Shuya (CRLAO), préfecture de Rngaba dans le Sichuan, 2019 © Lai Yunfan‎

Research is supported by 14 teams, often in partnership with research organizations, top-level doctoral training and an international publications department.

Fundamental and applied research. A novel approach, both theoretical and practical

The specificity of research at Inalco lies in an approach that combines four dimensions: in-depth knowledge of the cultural areas concerned, mastery of the languages of the region studied, a disciplinary approach and research conducted in the field using local sources (ethnographic observations, interviews, document collection, etc.). The study of societies and cultures is thus based on solid theoretical and methodological foundations, with a central epistemological emphasis on the local language as an indispensable medium of cultural knowledge. It is this approach to cultures, societies and civilizations, supported by a decentralized view of its research objects, that ensures the dynamism, relevance and specificity of Inalco's research in the national and international field of cultural area studies. In a world that is increasingly complex to decipher, this specificity offers indispensable keys to understanding global and local, national and international exchanges and issues.

Strengthened support for doctoral students

Inalco supports doctoral students throughout their training, from registration to thesis defense, offering them high-level training in cultural areas and the main disciplines of the humanities and social sciences. Together with the Collège des Écoles doctorales and the Centre de formation des doctorants à l'insertion professionnelle de Sorbonne Paris Cité, the Institute also helps to enhance the value of the doctorate with regard to the professional world, and to develop doctoral students' operational skills and adaptability.

An organization at the service of research

A building entirely dedicated to research houses the teams, the Doctoral School and its administration providing all support functions: support in responding to calls for projects and organizing scientific events, internal funding, publication aids, help in finding partnerships and funding and communication.

Fundamental and applied research

Fundamental and applied research. A novel approach, both theoretical and practical

Strengthened support for doctoral students

An organization at the service of research

Research units

By cultural area:

By discipline:

Key figures