To maintain the quality of research undertaken within the ICCR, and to facilitate the consolidation and expansion of the available experience, expertise and knowledge within the Institute, there is a need to ensure selectivity in our current and future research plans and, in particular, our attempts to generate additional research income. This is achieved through the development of strategic themes. 

These themes draw on staff members’ previous and current work undertaken within the Institute, areas of individual expertise, areas of scientific and methodological interest, and identified HPSS research needs that fall within the operational framework of the Institute.

The themes serve two discrete functions:

• The first function is to act as an initial focus for the planning and development of future research activity. Existing research projects within the theme provide the foundation for the development of future studies within the area, by evidencing the development of expertise/forming a critical mass, and by identifying further key research questions. 
• The second function is as a promotional and information tool highlighting the areas of expertise within the Institute to external research and policy communities. They provide a ready outline of where the Institute interests and expertise lie.

There are four Research Themes