The Olsztyn and Białystok Branch of the Polish Academy of Sciences, based in Olsztyn, was established on December 11, 2014, pursuant to Resolution No. 5/2014 of the General Assembly of the Polish Academy of Sciences. The resolution came into force on January 22, 2015, after approval by the Minister of Science and Higher Education.

The Branch of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn and Białystok currently has 17 members of the Polish Academy of Sciences (7 ordinary members, 10 corresponding members) and 1 member of the Academy of Young Scholars.

In accordance with its Statutes, the Branch’s task is to integrate scientific and cultural life in the Warmian-Masurian and Podlaskie provinces, to support scientific research of significant importance for the national economy and culture and to disseminate its results, to cooperate with state authorities and administration, local government bodies, social organizations, and the scientific community, as well as representing this community before the central bodies of the Polish Academy of Sciences. In addition, the Branch will initiate and conduct cooperation with Eastern European countries.