IESA is invested in art research as a method of enquiry. Staff and students undertake research through business skills and practices as well as investigating into the critical discourse revolving around art, its markets and the various forms of collecting. For this, IESA is home to staff from a wide range of disciplines, who are research active and experts in their chosen areas.

Whilst every member of staff has their own unique specialist area of expertise, they also enjoy well-established links to the wider art world in London, Paris and internationally. IESA is increasingly developing its research profile based on a long-standing relationship with the Wallace Collection. It aims to create a network of international scholars and students interested in the History of Collection and the Art Market.

IESA also strengthened its links with the international Contemporary Art scene. In Paris, IESA is in partnership with the Palais de Tokyo, while in London, it runs partnerships with White Cube and the Sir John Soane's museum.