A Machine Intelligence Research Institute (MIRI) is a research institute that studies the development of machines and computer programs that can think like humans. MIRI focuses on the theoretical side of artificial intelligence, which means they don't actually build robots or machines themselves. Instead, they do research and develop mathematical models, algorithms, theories, and tools to help us understand how machines can think and act in complex and unpredictable ways, like humans do. This research may also help us create better computer programs and robots in the future.