From 1986 to 1919

In 1896, Riga Polytechnicum was transformed into the official university of the Russian Empire – Riga Polytechnic Institute, where studies are conducted in Russian. Following the example of European universities, the institute retained autonomy.

Many internationally recognized scientists work as lecturers, mainly in chemistry and engineering.

During the World War I, the institute was evacuated to Moscow, where it operated until 1918.

Directors:

• Paul Walden (1917–1918)
• Woldemar von Knieriem (1906–1916)
• Paul Walden (1902–1906)
• Theodor Groenberg (1896–1902)