Central in the LACDR management structure is the Research Directorate, currently consisting of Professors Meindert Danhof (Leiden) and Nico Vermeulen (Amsterdam).

The two Directors of Research are responsible for the daily management of the institute, and develop and implement research policies. They evaluate the research progress and have external contacts on behalf of the institute.

All executive decisions are made by the Directorate. Being responsible for preparing and executing the decisions of the Institute, the Directorate is the refering point on policy and budgetary questions. Accounting for daily business, the Research Directorate has regular contacts with the Divisions and Staff. The Research Directorate also attends the meetings of the Scientific Advisory Board.

The Directors of Research are appointed for a period of 5 years, which period can be extended.