The purpose of the Centre for Advanced Studies is to strengthen and integrate the action of the University's research structures, promoting synergies between them and consolidating the development and dissemination of science and technology, encouraging the exchange and interaction of knowledge through the international circulation of ideas and scholars. Internationalisation, interdisciplinarity and the sharing of scientific knowledge and expertise are the main thrusts of the Centre's activities for the exchange and discussion of ideas, the realisation of projects and the search for innovative results.

The Centre is a "forum" where renowned academics from different parts of the world as well as, young researchers, PhD and PhD students may work and study all together at the University of Palermo.

The Centre joins the international university networks of similar Higher Education Institutions, with which it shares methods and models.

To enhance the research and the scientific, economic and knowledge potential of the University of Palermo by developing and consolidating international networks through the opportunity to host, for medium to long periods, both Italian and foreign scholars from all over the world who have distinguished themselves for scientific excellence and international notoriety (Visiting Fellow and Senior Visiting Fellow);

To strengthen the role and national and international visibility of University's facilities and researchers and scholars through the rationalization and coordination of the internationalization service system;

To design and implement studies and research agreed upon with incoming foreign researchers;

To develop and consolidate partnerships and international collaboration initiatives agreed upon with universities, research institutions and the production system;

To promote interdisciplinary and systemic studies and research, technology transfer, innovation progress and dissemination, and to set up and organize Seasonal Schools and other forms of advanced learning.