ITAM works on scientific research in the field of solid phase mechanics, oriented particularly on micromechanics, biomechanics of solids, statistical dynamics of systems and media, nonlinear mechanics of systems, processes of failure of materials, mechanics of multifunctional materials, mechanics of particulate media, and computer and numerical mechanics.

The research is also concerned with the economic assessment of structures, buildings, etc. incl. proposals for new methodologies for special-purpose buildings and structures and the assessment of environmental and territorial effects, particularly in the safeguarding and evaluation of historical buildings and settlements.

Since 2000 the Institute has been supported by a grant from the European Commission as a "Centre of Excellence" responsible for the project ARCCHIP (Advanced Research Centre for the Cultural Heritage Interdisciplinary Project).