The University of Central Asia's (UCA's) Mountain Societies Research Institute (MSRI) is an interdisciplinary research institute dedicated to addressing the challenges and opportunities within Central Asian mountain communities and environments. MSRI's goal is to support and enhance the resilience and quality of life of mountain societies through the generation and application of sound research. MSRI has 5 objectives: to generate new knowledge on mountain societies through academic research; to enhance Central Asian capacity to conduct research relevant to mountain societies; to serve as a knowledge hub for scholars, development practitioners, and decision-makers; to inform policy and practice through research; and to contribute to the development of UCA academic programs relevant to mountain societies. MSRI and its partners work to transfer knowledge to policy and practice aimed at improving the quality of life for people of the mountain areas of Central Asia.