The focus of research at CEMI encompasses theoretical modelling and the development of mathematical, computer, and empirical methods for the study of the economic transition.

The research activity of the Institute is largely focused on continuing development of fundamental research. Specific areas of research undertaken in the past and currently being further development to reflect both the changing global economy and the Russian transition include the theory of the optimal functioning planned economies, the study of scientific-technical progress, methods of evaluating the economic efficiency of capital investment and of the location of manufacturing, the economic of natural resource use, general equilibrium and disequilibrium theory (including the incorporation of issues related to intellectual property), and decision making under uncertainty.