Georgia Southern joins Georgia’s top research universities

STATESBORO, Ga. (WTOC) - Georgia Southern University has officially joined the Georgia Research Alliance, becoming part of a group of leading research institutions that includes the University of Georgia, Georgia Tech and Georgia State University.

The Georgia Research Alliance, also known as GRA, is a nonprofit public-private partnership connected to the University System of Georgia and the Georgia Department of Economic Development. Founded in 1990, the organization focuses on expanding research, innovation and entrepreneurship throughout the state.

Georgia Southern President Kyle Marrero called the move a major milestone for the university’s growing research efforts as the addition of Georgia Southern and Kennesaw State expands the Georgia Research Alliance to 10 member universities statewide. Marrero said the partnership will help advance innovation, talent development and research impacting Southeast Georgia.

The alliance secured more than $1 billion in research funding during fiscal year 2025, helping create more than 3,000 jobs in laboratories and startup companies. University leaders say Georgia Southern’s membership reflects its rapid research growth, with projected FY26 research expenditures surpassing $56 million and expanding efforts in environmental science, early childhood education, advanced manufacturing and logistics as it works toward Carnegie R1 status.

Membership in the alliance also gives Georgia Southern researchers access to specialized equipment and facilities through the GRA Core Exchange program, while helping recruit top research talent through the GRA Academy of Scholars.

“We are excited to bring our distinct perspective to the GRA,” said David C. Weindorf, vice president for research and economic development. “I can’t wait to deepen our partnership with fellow members, as we continue to pursue research that will improve our communities and our world.”