The Kavli Institute for Astronomy and Astrophysics at Peking University (KIAA-PKU) promotes basic research in China with the highest international standards and carries out research on the origin and evolution of astrophysical structures from the scales of planetary systems and stars up to that of the Universe as a whole. The program of KIAA focuses on studies in three major areas of astrophysics:

Cosmology, first light and galaxy assemblage

Gravitational physics and high-energy phenomena

Interstellar medium, stars and planets

The Institute is designed to be a forum for global scientific exchange, an incubator for innovative projects, and a training center for international postdocs and students. The KIAA-PKU organizes a variety of academic activities and programs to stimulate the research and promote interdisciplinary interactions. The working language of the KIAA-PKU is English.

The Institute is under the leadership of its founding director, D.N.C. Lin, associate director, X.W. Liu, and coordinator J.S. Chen. An international Advisory Committee (AC), chaired by Professor F.H. Shu and reported to the University Authority, provide advice concerning proposed academic, workshop and visitor programs and assistance on major projects to set research directions, review proposed faculty appointments, and evaluate the performance of the KIAA and its Director.

The Institute works closely with the Department of Astronomy, via coordination of research activities, sharing of research facilities and resources, and training and supervising of research students.