The Circle of Ancient Iranian Studies (CAIS) is an independent, not-for-profit educational program founded in 1998, dedicated to the research and preservation of pre-Islamic Iranian civilization. Established by Shapour Suren-Pahlav and Oric Basirov, CAIS aims to revive scholarly discourse on Iranian heritage and culture following the ideological shifts in Iran post-1979. Initially affiliated with the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) at the University of London, CAIS now operates autonomously.

CAIS engages scholars, students, and enthusiasts through a range of initiatives, including scholarly publications, conferences, and online platforms, facilitating access to research and knowledge on ancient and early Islamic Iranian civilizations. The organization promotes understanding of Iranian culture by circulating newsletters, hosting lectures and workshops, and producing detailed reports on research and archaeological discoveries. CAIS is committed to fostering a vibrant intellectual community, ensuring continued engagement with the rich heritage of Greater Iran through collaboration with educational institutions and cultural organizations worldwide.