Several dozen faculty members gathered at the University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education & Hotel on November 20 to discuss ways to advance the university’s research initiatives. The event, titled “Inquiring into the Nature of Things: Convergence and Divergence in a Dynamic Research Landscape,” marked the second annual Research Summit and was co-sponsored by the Office of Research and the Office of the Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost.
“This event not only celebrates UGA’s strengths but will create lasting impact on the UGA research enterprise by identifying opportunities for accelerating interdisciplinary research,” said Benjamin C. Ayers, senior vice president for academic affairs and provost. “Interdisciplinary research is more than simply combining different disciplines — it is a dynamic and evolving process that integrates knowledge, methods and perspectives to develop a new understanding of a problem. The complex challenges facing our society require this multifaceted approach.
“I am proud that faculty at UGA have embraced this spirit of collaboration in their drive to develop new knowledge and uncover new solutions.”
The summit followed up on its inaugural meeting held earlier in April, with future events planned each fall. The format included presentations from university leaders on topics such as innovation initiatives, matchmaking events like “Creative Collisions,” public service opportunities, incorporating arts and humanities into research, among others. These were followed by brainstorming sessions aimed at generating actionable ideas.
Jessica Muilenburg, associate vice president for research and professor in the College of Public Health, described the atmosphere as energetic. “We had productive sessions exploring strategies to address key issues affecting faculty, including well-being, mentoring and engagement opportunities. Many of us connected with faculty we can work with and learn from in the future.” Muilenburg organized the summit alongside Nate Nibbelink, associate vice president for research and professor in forestry.
Key suggestions from participants included enhancing project management support among research staff, developing new ways to recognize interdisciplinary efforts, and improving communication related to research activities. Muilenburg stated she would collaborate with colleagues across campus—including those in the provost’s office—to pursue these recommendations.
“Now, more than ever, is a time to bring people together and embrace our collaborative spirit,” interim Vice President for Research Chris King said during his remarks. “Many of the spring summit recommendations have been key in our efforts to develop new programming to help us sustain our progress and momentum as a research institution, and I’m confident this summit will do the same.”
