The Cotsen Institute of Archaeology at UCLA is a research unit at the University of California, Los Angeles (housed within the Fowler building) that promotes the comprehensive and interdisciplinary study of the human past. Established in 1973, the Institute is a unique resource that provides an opportunity for faculty, staff, graduate students, research associates, volunteers and the general public to gather together in their explorations of ancient human societies. In 1999, The UCLA Institute of Archaeology changed its name to the Cotsen Institute of Archaeology at UCLA to honor the longtime support of Lloyd E. Cotsen.

Former President and CEO of Neutrogena Corporation, Lloyd E. Cotsen has been associated with UCLA for more than thirty years as a volunteer and donor and maintains a special interest in archaeology. Cotsen has been an advisor and supporter of the Institute since 1980.

Located on the lower level of the Fowler building on the UCLA campus, the Institute houses laboratories for regional field research projects, technical labs for the specialized analysis of archaeological materials, classrooms, a teaching lab. meeting rooms and offices. The Institute presents public lecture programs, publications, and research seminars as well as field research grants to its members. The Institute also trains professional archaeologists through an interdisciplinary graduate degree program.

The Institute researchers work throughout the world with particular emphasis on Mesoamerica, South America, California, China, the Mediterranean, the Middle East and Europe. Researchers employ a wide range of theoretical perspectives and disciplinary backgrounds, bringing anthropological, classical, historical, humanistic and scientific perspectives to the Institute and its interpretations of the past.