AIR is one of the world's largest behavioral and social science research and evaluation organizations. Our overriding goal is to use the best science available to bring the most effective ideas and approaches to enhancing everyday life. For us, making the world a better place is not wishful thinking. It is the goal that drives us.

Founded in 1946 as a not-for-profit organization, we conduct our work with strict independence, objectivity and non-partisanship. Learn more about our history.

The intellectual diversity of our employees enables us to bring together experts from many fields in the search for innovative answers to challenges that span the human life course.

Our Mission

AIR’s mission is to generate and use rigorous evidence that contributes to a better, more equitable world. 

Our Vision

AIR's vision is to be the premier research, evaluation, and technical assistance organization, guided by principles of ethical decision-making, collaboration, inclusion, and innovation. 

We will: 

• Inform improvements to education, health, workforce development, and related areas;
• Collaborate with organizations, policymakers, and practitioners to adopt evidence-based practices;
• Partner globally and locally with other organizations and communities; and
• Integrate our expertise in substantive and policy arenas, research and evaluation, and the implementation of evidence-based practices and interventions.

Our Culture and Values

AIR places a strong emphasis on creating a collegial atmosphere that encourages staff to be creative and supportive of each other. We believe that intellectual diversity and respect for the contributions of each individual is central to our success.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

AIR’s commitment to diversity goes beyond legal compliance to its full integration in our strategy, operations, and work environment.

The AIR Equity Initiative: Investing AIR Resources to Improve Lives

In addition to serving our mission through client-driven work, AIR invests its own talent and resources to tackle seemingly intractable, long-standing problems that prevent all citizens from having access to good health care, education, and pathways to employment.