Institute of Baltic Region History and Archaeology (Lithuanian: Baltijos regiono istorijos ir archeologijos institutas, (BRIAI)) is the scholarly research subdivision of Klaipėda University. It was established in 2003, following reorganization of the former Centre for the History of Western Lithuania and Prussia, which functioned in the period 1992 to 2003
The scholars of the Institute are involved in the research of changes in prehistoric and historic societies and cultures within the Baltic region by applying diverse scientific theories and methodologies.
In their research activities, the staff of Centre for the History of Western Lithuania and Prussia focused upon investigation of the relations between the Order of the Teutonic Knights in Prussia and the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, development of societies of these states, the history of the German-Lithuanian relationships in the Prussian Lithuania, highlighting political and social turning points in the 20th century experienced by the former territory of East Prussia, and the past of the historical region of Samogitia. Historical and archaeological investigations of Klaipėda, Palanga and other towns and townships of Western Lithuania, as well as analysis of historical issues of the Kaliningrad Oblast and the former East Prussia were accomplished in the Centre for History.
In cooperation with the Polish scientists, the Centre for History initiated underwater archaeology, a research field new for Lithuania. In collaboration with the Nordostdeutsches Kulturwerk Institute in Lüneburg, collection of the archive indispensable for historical urban research work started in Klaipėda; the Cultural Centre of Thomas Mann was founded in Nida as a venue for cultural dialogue between different nations, etc.
The activities of the Centre in the years 1992–2003, with regard to the priorities of scientific research in the Baltic Sea Region, were coordinated by the Academic Board composed of scientists from Lithuania, Germany, Poland, Latvia and Sweden, which was headed by Dr Eckhard Matthes in 1993 to 1999, later by Professor Udo Arnold.[1]
Researchers of the BRIAI conduct fundamental and applied scientific research in the following fields:
Scholars of the Institute are involved in the studies process of Klaipėda University. Scientists of the Institute read lectures to bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree students majoring in history, and to the students majoring in archaeology and other branches of studies (such as, political sciences, philology), and supervise their scientific efforts.
BRIAI publishes monographs, collection of articles, as well as two peer-reviewed research series dedicated to historical and archaeological research respectively.
Directors of the institute: Assoc. Professor, Dr Alvydas Nikžentaitis in 1992–1993, Assoc. Professor, Dr Vladas Žulkus in 1993–1998, Professor Stephen Christopher Rowell, PhD (Cantab.) in 1998–1999, Dr Vacys Vaivada in 1999–2001, Professor, Dr Habil. Vladas Žulkus in 2001–2002, Dr Silva Pocytė since 2002.