The Institute for Social Research undertakes research that engages interdisciplinary social issues through research methodologies that involve survey, quantitative and mixed methods research. It also provides research services within York University for students, faculty and senior administrators that supports these research methodologies and undertakes studies of the university community.
The primary aim of ISR is to conduct, support and disseminate social research using surveys and focus groups with a particular focus on social problems, population and public health, mental health, public affairs, and the York University community.