The Institute of Rural and Agricultural Development of the Polish Academy of Sciences (IRWiR PAN) is a leading research institution examining transformations of rural areas and agriculture in their social, economic, and spatial dimensions. Its interdisciplinary research has earned the Institute a top scientific category (A) and a strong expert position in shaping public policies. The subject of its research is the contemporary countryside as a space for living, working, and economic activity, undergoing transformations related to climate change, the transformation of food systems, demographic processes, and digitalization. The Institute carries out both national projects (including the Monitoring of Rural Development, financed by the EFRWP) and international projects (Horizon Europe, Erasmus+), supporting public administration, the agricultural sector, and public debate. It holds the HR Excellence in Research award.