The Institute analyzes human and earth systems, providing information to aid decision-making regarding global risks and opportunities.

[1] The Joint Institute focuses on the intersections of science, technology, economics, and policy and collaborates with both domestic and international government agencies.

[8] Functionally, JGCRI operates as part of the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, with its staff holding Research Affiliate status at the University of Maryland.

Within the organizational structure, the Institute falls under the Fundamental and Computational Sciences Directorate of PNNL and the Division of Research at UMD.

Gerald "Gerry" Stokes served as the director of the Joint Global Change Research Institute from 2000 to 2005, succeeded by Anthony C. Janetos from 2006 to 2013.