Georgia Southern University has joined the Georgia Research Alliance, according to a May 20 announcement from the university. The alliance includes leading research institutions such as the University of Georgia, the Georgia Institute of Technology, and Georgia State University.
The move is seen as an important step for both the university and for research efforts in Southeast Georgia. The alliance aims to expand research capacity and economic competitiveness across the state by fostering collaboration among its members.
“This is an ideal moment for Georgia Southern to join GRA,” said Kyle Marrero, president of Georgia Southern University. “Our institutional momentum aligns closely with GRA’s mission to expand Georgia’s research capacity and economic competitiveness. As we continue our trajectory toward becoming a nationally recognized public impact research university, we are committed to advancing innovation, developing talent and addressing the critical needs of Southeast Georgia through research that strengthens communities, drives economic development and improves quality of life across the region.”
The alliance now counts ten public and private universities among its members after adding both Georgia Southern and Kennesaw State University. “GRA is a proven catalyst for growing university research and entrepreneurship in our state, and our two newest members are certainly going to help accelerate that growth,” said Tim Denning, president and CEO of GRA. “Georgia Southern and Kennesaw State will make GRA an even stronger catalyst and will help strengthen the innovation ecosystem in new regions of our state. We are grateful for the support of Governor Kemp and the General Assembly for this expansion in the FY27 budget.”
Membership provides several privileges including access to recruit researchers from GRA’s Academy of Scholars as well as participation in programs like Core Exchange, which allows researchers from any member institution access to equipment at other member universities without extra administrative fees.
David C. Weindorf, vice president for research and economic development at Georgia Southern University said: “We are excited to bring our distinct perspective to the GRA. I’m grateful for their support of our vision, and 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.”
With projected annual research expenditures surpassing $56 million in fiscal year 2026, officials say this membership supports ongoing efforts toward achieving Carnegie R1 classification—the highest designation given nationally for doctoral-level institutions.
