ITFC implements research and monitoring aimed at addressing the threats and challenges for conservation in the region.  The institute works closely with the Uganda Wildlife Authority, the National Forest Authority and other local and regional partners.  These partnerships help ITFC in setting priorities and ensuring that results and recommendations are translated into management actions when appropriate. At least once a year an 'information sharing' workshop is planned for this purpose.

Since the late 1990-ies, ITFC has led and maintained various long term monitoring activities for Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks, assessing changes in the conservation status of the forest and impacts of management strategies.

Of particular interest to many is the ecology, conservation and management of Mountain gorillas, which have been studied from ITFC for more than a decade.  Currently, the main gorilla research performed out of ITFC is lead by the Max Plank Institute. 

A new focus for ITFC in the years ahead will be to characterize and help address emerging threats and opportunities for the Albertine Rift (e.g. climate change, carbon markets, emerging diseases, population trends).

A major component of ITFC's work involves capacity building.  The institute focuses on postgraduate research and training and continues to guide and support many Ugandan students and young researchers. Suggested research topics that ITFC is interested in 

Lastly, the institute serves as a base for visiting researchers from Uganda and elsewhere to pursue their own research.