In addition to individual research and other collective projects, CERI scholars also divide into in small research groups based on specific topics of common interest.

These groups serve three main purposes:
- Organize seminars or workshops, in particular for doctoral students, on a specific research area or on general methodological issues;
- Develop and consolidate a long-lasting research network in a particular sub-field of study;
- Discuss and exchange upon a precise topic of research or a region/country