{"689850":{"#nid":"689850","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Doing the Dirty Work of Sustainability ","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt\u2019s not glamorous. It\u2019s not trendy. In fact, it\u2019s downright grubby. But the work that a Georgia Tech researcher and his students are doing is improving campus sustainability, one pound of food waste at a time.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/2820\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EDavid Hu\u003C\/a\u003E, a professor in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EGeorge W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E and the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/biosciences.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ESchool of Biological Sciences\u003C\/a\u003E, gave his senior-level biology class this semester a unique assignment: Feed food waste to black soldier fly larvae, collect the organic byproduct (called \u201cfrass\u201d), and analyze the results. What they\u2019ve found so far is a composting method with the potential to dramatically reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions while producing a nutrient-dense fertilizer.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThere\u2019s something special about these grubs,\u201d said Hu, who is also a faculty member within the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/bioresearch.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EParker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience\u003C\/a\u003E. \u201cThey smell, and they\u2019re kind of ugly, but they process food extremely efficiently. When we feed them, they eat twice their body weight, finish that in five hours, and you can do it again the next day. Traditional composting could never be that fast.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUsing a unique closed-loop system pioneered by private-industry partner and early-stage startup \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/biotechnicausa.com\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EBiotechnica\u003C\/a\u003E, the larvae eat their way through more than 300 pounds of food in one semester, creating valuable frass that students harvest. When the larvae mature into adults, they fly into a shared chamber to reproduce, make more grubs, and start the process over again.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cYou can get a turnaround from food waste to frass in a day or two, and then from the raw frass to our ground-up frass that we use for our plants,\u201d said Mikkelle Peters, a fourth-year biology major in Hu\u2019s class. \u201cIt\u2019s just a much quicker process to get rid of the food waste.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFeeding and studying an army of larvae that can eat more than 10 gallons of food a day keeps Hu\u2019s students busy. The solution? Divide and conquer.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe first group in the process gathers and grinds food scraps to feed the grubs, then collects the frass they produce. The next group mixes the frass with soil and analyzes its chemical makeup, comparing its nutrient density to commercial fertilizers. A third group uses the fertilized soil to grow vegetables like arugula and radishes that are measured against plants grown using synthetic fertilizer. The final two groups observe the environmental conditions that affect productivity and analyze the grubs\u2019 digestion to uncover the secrets to their success.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMore testing will need to be done on outdoor farms to provide rigorous results. Data over the past few semesters were, at times, inconsistent. But the students\u2019 projects reveal a lot of promise for future experiments. Despite limitations to the study, including a small sample size and minor instrument malfunction, the students have been able to find helpful nutrients in their product and grow certain crops more successfully with frass than with commercial fertilizer. Unlike chemically based products or some traditional composts that need to be specially treated, black soldier fly frass is organic and easily processed.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cA lot of fertilizers can cause harmful runoff, and they can change soil balances over time,\u201d Peters said. \u201cFrass is a natural product, has more fibrous material, and has a lot more organic compounds.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition to the science that the students are exposed to, Hu said it is also eye-opening for them to see the work of sustainability. The project is an excellent case study for how a small group can make a big impact.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe students have learned a lot,\u201d Hu said. \u201cFor one of the activities, we had them bring in their own food waste from home to feed the composter. They realized that a person makes pounds of waste per day.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAccording to the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sustain.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EOffice of Sustainability\u003C\/a\u003E, the campus produces about 400 tons of food waste per year. Although Georgia Tech boasts \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gatech.edu\/news\/2025\/11\/07\/new-composter-enhance-campus-waste-reduction\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Eone of the largest commercial composters\u003C\/a\u003E on an urban campus in the Southeast, the machine can only process 175 tons per year. That leaves a gap that Hu said his research might one day be able to fill.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cRight now, it\u2019s working,\u201d he said. \u201cWe want to expand and see if it can work some more. The big issue is visibility, getting people to know that what we\u2019re doing is good. Because in some ways, saving the planet takes energy.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne of the main energy sources for the experimental composter is something Hu hopes to reduce: manpower. With a campus the size of Georgia Tech\u2019s, it\u2019s a very labor-intensive process for students to collect food waste from campus partners. Hu hopes that more community members will volunteer, not only to collect food, but also to improve the system.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe need people power \u2014 people willing to volunteer to move, because right now, campus produces a lot of waste in different places,\u201d he said. \u201cAnd we also need biologists and engineers and computer scientists. We need people to make this system more well-engineered.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlthough the current black soldier fly composter still has some flaws, Hu said his goal is to create an affordable, climate-friendly food waste recycling system that can scale up to support U.S. agriculture. By solving problems at the local level, his research is potentially removing economic and operational barriers to sustainability. But, according to Hu, the final step to long-term success is community involvement.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIn the end, we need people who care,\u201d Hu said. \u201cIt doesn\u2019t take that much effort to do a little bit, and a little bit can go a long way.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA Georgia Tech researcher and his students are using experimental composting to reduce campus food waste and support agriculture. Using a unique closed-loop system, black soldier fly larvae eat their way through more than 300 pounds of food in one semester, creating valuable frass that students harvest. What they\u2019ve found so far is a composting method with the potential to dramatically reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions while producing a nutrient-dense fertilizer. \u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"A Georgia Tech researcher and his students are using experimental composting to reduce campus food waste and support agriculture. "}],"uid":"36479","created_gmt":"2026-04-17 19:22:36","changed_gmt":"2026-04-17 19:33:25","author":"abowman41","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-04-17T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-04-17T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679996":{"id":"679996","type":"image","title":"BSF-Compost-Hu.jpg","body":null,"created":"1776454082","gmt_created":"2026-04-17 19:28:02","changed":"1776454082","gmt_changed":"2026-04-17 19:28:02","alt":"Researcher standing in a greenhouse-like structure adjusts a blue barrel\u2013based composting system equipped with insulated tubing, used for black soldier fly larvae composting.","file":{"fid":"264227","name":"BSF-Compost-Hu.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/17\/BSF-Compost-Hu.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/17\/BSF-Compost-Hu.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":5241811,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/04\/17\/BSF-Compost-Hu.jpg?itok=dATV7NeP"}}},"media_ids":["679996"],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"138","name":"Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"},{"id":"188776","name":"go-research"},{"id":"166882","name":"School of Biological Sciences"},{"id":"14545","name":"George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering"},{"id":"168693","name":"campus sustainability"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAshlie Bowman | Communications Manager\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EParker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"689587":{"#nid":"689587","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Researchers Use Statistics and Math to Understand How The Brain Works","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ENothing rivals the human brain\u2019s complexity. Its 86 billion neurons and 85 billion other cells make an estimated 100 trillion connections. If the brain were a computer, it would perform an exaflop (a billion-billion) mathematical calculations every second and use the equivalent of only 20 watts of power. As impressive as the brain is, neurologists can\u2019t fully explain how neurons work together.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo help find answers, researchers at the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/neuro.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EInstitute for Neuroscience, Neurotechnology, and Society\u003C\/a\u003E (INNS) are using math, data, and AI to unlock the secrets of thought. Together they are helping turn the brain\u2019s raw electrical \u201cnoise\u201d into real insights about how people think, move, and perceive the world.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFair warning: Prepare your neurons for the complexity of this brain research ahead.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EBuilding AI Like a Brain\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat if artificial neurons in AI programs were arranged as they are in the brain?\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAI programs would then help us understand why the brain is organized the way it is. This neuro-AI synthesis would also work faster, use less energy, and be easier to interpret. Creating such systems is the goal of \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/psychology.gatech.edu\/people\/apurva-ratan-murty\u0022\u003EApurva Ratan Murty\u003C\/a\u003E, an assistant professor of \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/psychology.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EPsychology\u003C\/a\u003E who is creating topographic AI models like the one above of three domains \u2014 vision, audition, and language inspired by the brain. In the near future, he predicts doctors might be able to use these patterns to predict the effects of brain lesions and other disorders. \u201cWe\u2019re not there yet,\u201d he says. \u201cBut our work brings us significantly closer to that future than ever before.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EComputing Thought and Movement\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHow cats walk keeps \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/5354\u0022\u003EChethan Pandarinath\u003C\/a\u003E on his toes. This biomedical engineer uses sensors to analyze how two sets of feline leg muscles \u2014 flexors and extensors \u2014 are controlled by the spinal cord. Understanding how that happens could help patients partially paralyzed from spinal cord injuries, strokes, or progressive neuro-degenerative diseases get back on their feet again. \u201cMy lab is using AI tools that allow us to turn complex spinal cord activity data into something we can interpret. It tells us there\u2019s a simple underlying structure behind the complex activity patterns,\u201d says the associate professor.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003ERevealing the Brain\u2019s Spike Patterns\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe brain is like a symphony conductor,\u201d says \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/3736\u0022\u003ESimon Sponberg\u003C\/a\u003E. \u201cIndividual instruments have some independent control, but most of the music comes from the brain\u2019s precise coordination of notes among the different players in the body.\u201d This \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/physics.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003Ephysics\u003C\/a\u003E professor studies the fantastically fast-beating wings of the hummingbird-sized hawk moth (Manduca sexta). Its agile flight movement comes as a result of spikes in electrical activity in 10 muscles. Sponberg found something that surprised him \u2014 the brain focuses less on creating the number of spikes than in orchestrating their precise patterns over time. To Sponberg, every millisecond matters. \u201cWe are just beginning to understand how the nervous system first acquires precisely timed spiking patterns during development,\u201d he says.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EPredicting Decisions Through Statistics\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPut a mouse in a maze with food far away, and it will learn to find it. But life for mice \u2014 and people \u2014 isn\u2019t so simple. Sometimes they want to explore, only want water, or just want to go home. What\u2019s more, animals make decisions based on their history, not just on how they feel at the moment. To dig deeper into the decision-making process, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/18557\u0022\u003EAnqi Wu\u003C\/a\u003E, an assistant professor in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cse.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Computational Science and Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E, is giving mice more options. By using a new computational framework called SWIRL (Switching Inverse Reinforcement Learning), her findings have outperformed models that fail to take historical behavior into account. \u201cWe\u2019re seeking to understand not only animal behavior but also human behavior to gain insight into the human decision-making process over a long period of time,\u201d she says.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EModeling the Mind\u2019s Wiring With Math\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EConnectivity shapes cognition in the cerebral cortex, a layered structure in the brain. The visual cortex, in particular, processes visual data from the retina relayed through the Lateral Geniculate Nucleus (LGN) in the thalamus, and directs it to the correct cognitive domain in the brain. How it does this is the mystery that computational neuroscientist \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/13005\u0022\u003EHannah Choi\u003C\/a\u003E wants to solve. \u201cThe big question I\u2019m interested in is how network connectivity patterns in the architecture of the LGN are related to computations,\u201d says this assistant \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/math.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003Emath\u003C\/a\u003E professor. To find answers, she shows mice repeated image patterns such as flower-cat-dog-house and then disrupts the pattern. The goal? To grasp how the thalamus\u2019s nonlinear dynamical system works. If scientists and doctors better understand how brain regions are wired together, such knowledge could lead to better disease treatment.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis story was originally published through the Georgia Tech Alumni Magazine. Read the original publication \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gtalumni.org\/news\/2026\/georgia-tech-researchers-use-statistics-and-math-to-understand-how-the-brain-works.html\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003Ehere\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EResearchers at Georgia Tech are using math, science, and artificial intelligence to better understand how people think, move, and perceive the world.\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Researchers at Georgia Tech are using math, science, and artificial intelligence to better understand how people think, move, and perceive the world."}],"uid":"35575","created_gmt":"2026-04-09 14:51:00","changed_gmt":"2026-04-17 16:22:48","author":"adavidson38","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-04-09T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-04-09T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679908":{"id":"679908","type":"image","title":"AdobeStock_506880018.jpeg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EResearchers at Georgia Tech are using math, science, and artificial intelligence to better understand how people think, move, and perceive the world.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1775747910","gmt_created":"2026-04-09 15:18:30","changed":"1775747910","gmt_changed":"2026-04-09 15:18:30","alt":"Digital illustration of a human brain split down the middle: the left side is filled with white mathematical equations, diagrams, and formulas, while the right side is surrounded by colorful, flowing lines and abstract wave patterns against a dark blue background.","file":{"fid":"264129","name":"AdobeStock_506880018.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/09\/AdobeStock_506880018.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/09\/AdobeStock_506880018.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":11158535,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/04\/09\/AdobeStock_506880018.jpeg?itok=smMzQtFc"}},"679903":{"id":"679903","type":"image","title":"Brain-Data-New-480x3301.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ECaption:\u0026nbsp;This image shows a topographic vision model trained to have a brain-like organization.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1775746394","gmt_created":"2026-04-09 14:53:14","changed":"1775746394","gmt_changed":"2026-04-09 14:53:14","alt":"Three layered, abstract heat\u2011map style grids in shades of blue, red, and beige, stacked to resemble data layers or visualization panels.","file":{"fid":"264124","name":"Brain-Data-New-480x3301.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/09\/Brain-Data-New-480x3301.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/09\/Brain-Data-New-480x3301.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":53268,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/04\/09\/Brain-Data-New-480x3301.jpg?itok=vNYzcaPf"}},"679904":{"id":"679904","type":"image","title":"Chethan-480x330.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ECaption:\u0026nbsp;This shows how spinal cord activity guides transitions in muscle output for extensor muscles.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1775746465","gmt_created":"2026-04-09 14:54:25","changed":"1775746465","gmt_changed":"2026-04-09 14:54:25","alt":"Two side\u2011by\u2011side scientific diagrams labeled Cat 1 and Cat 2 showing clusters of colored data points and curved gray lines representing muscle\u2011activity patterns during movement. Each diagram includes blue, green, and yellow point clusters and marked \u2018extensor onset\u2019 and \u2018extensor offset\u2019 angles.","file":{"fid":"264125","name":"Chethan-480x330.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/09\/Chethan-480x330.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/09\/Chethan-480x330.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":67950,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/04\/09\/Chethan-480x330.jpg?itok=RaB1s5Rq"}},"679906":{"id":"679906","type":"image","title":"new_figure-480x330.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ECaption: This shows how mice behave differently when they are pursuing different goals.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1775746563","gmt_created":"2026-04-09 14:56:03","changed":"1775746563","gmt_changed":"2026-04-09 14:56:03","alt":"Three maze-like diagrams labeled \u2018water,\u2019 \u2018home,\u2019 and \u2018explore,\u2019 each showing colored paths representing an animal\u2019s movement through the maze. The paths shift from dark purple at the start to bright yellow at the end, indicating progression over time according to the color scale on the right","file":{"fid":"264127","name":"new_figure-480x330.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/09\/new_figure-480x330.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/09\/new_figure-480x330.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":103865,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/04\/09\/new_figure-480x330.jpg?itok=wezz9ZzE"}},"679905":{"id":"679905","type":"image","title":"Brain-Data-Sponberg-480x330.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ECaption:\u0026nbsp;This shows the spike patterns of a hawk moth. Motor systems use spike codes to control motor output.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1775746508","gmt_created":"2026-04-09 14:55:08","changed":"1775746508","gmt_changed":"2026-04-09 14:55:08","alt":"Diagram showing a hawk moth in the center surrounded by twelve circular charts. Each chart displays proportional black and blue segments representing spike count and spike timing data for left and right muscle groups. A legend explains the colors, and text below notes that the values show mutual information estimates for 10 muscles across seven moths","file":{"fid":"264126","name":"Brain-Data-Sponberg-480x330.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/09\/Brain-Data-Sponberg-480x330.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/09\/Brain-Data-Sponberg-480x330.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":81244,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/04\/09\/Brain-Data-Sponberg-480x330.jpg?itok=l_G56joM"}},"679907":{"id":"679907","type":"image","title":"GaTech_Brain-Data_Hannanh-Choi_480x330.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ECaption:\u0026nbsp;This shows how visual data from the retina is directed to the correct cognitive domain in the brain through a region of the visual cortex.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1775746605","gmt_created":"2026-04-09 14:56:45","changed":"1775746605","gmt_changed":"2026-04-09 14:56:45","alt":"Diagram showing neural connectivity between cortical layers in regions labeled V1 and LM. Arrows connect circular nodes representing layers L2\/3, L4, and L5, with green and orange arrows indicating directional pathways. A magnified inset on the right illustrates a simplified microcircuit with shapes labeled Pyr, Sst, and Vip connected by colored arrows.","file":{"fid":"264128","name":"GaTech_Brain-Data_Hannanh-Choi_480x330.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/09\/GaTech_Brain-Data_Hannanh-Choi_480x330.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/09\/GaTech_Brain-Data_Hannanh-Choi_480x330.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":51645,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/04\/09\/GaTech_Brain-Data_Hannanh-Choi_480x330.jpg?itok=MfeiKQbd"}}},"media_ids":["679908","679903","679904","679906","679905","679907"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/neuro.gatech.edu\/georgia-tech-uses-computing-and-engineering-methods-shift-neuroscience-paradigms","title":"Georgia Tech Uses Computing and Engineering Methods to Shift Neuroscience Paradigms"},{"url":"https:\/\/neuro.gatech.edu\/head-toe-georgia-tech-researchers-treat-entire-human-body-through-neuroscience-research","title":"Head to Toe: Georgia Tech Researchers Treat the Entire Human Body Through Neuroscience Research"},{"url":"https:\/\/neuro.gatech.edu\/better-brain-machine-interfaces-could-allow-paralyzed-communicate-again","title":"Better Brain-Machine Interfaces Could Allow the Paralyzed to Communicate Again"}],"groups":[{"id":"1278","name":"College of Sciences"},{"id":"66220","name":"Neuro"},{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"1279","name":"School of Mathematics"},{"id":"126011","name":"School of Physics"},{"id":"443951","name":"School of Psychology"}],"categories":[{"id":"194606","name":"Artificial Intelligence"},{"id":"138","name":"Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics"},{"id":"146","name":"Life Sciences and Biology"},{"id":"150","name":"Physics and Physical Sciences"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"172970","name":"go-neuro"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"},{"id":"193656","name":"Neuro Next Initiative"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71881","name":"Science and Technology"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWriter:\u003C\/strong\u003E George Spencer\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENews and Media Contact:\u003C\/strong\u003E \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:audra.davidson@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EAudra Davidson\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["audra.davidson@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"689800":{"#nid":"689800","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Inside RBI\u2019s Labs: John Xu Advances More Efficient, Sustainable Papermaking","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/hanjiang-john-xu\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EHanjiang (John) Xu\u003C\/a\u003E serves as director of the Multiphase Forming Lab at Georgia Tech\u2019s Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI), where he leads efforts to advance more efficient and sustainable approaches to paper formation.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/feature\/multiphase-forming-lab\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EMultiphase Forming Lab\u003C\/a\u003E is the only system of its kind in North America, designed to significantly reduce the amount of water required in the papermaking process. Lowering water usage\u2014by up to 70 percent\u2014the system also reduces the heat and energy needed for drying, one of the most energy-intensive stages in production. This work has direct implications for improving efficiency, reducing costs, and supporting more sustainable manufacturing practices across the industry.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EXu brings more than 20 years of experience in laboratory and pilot-scale papermaking systems, with expertise spanning fluid mechanics, materials science, instrumentation development, and process design. His work has consistently focused on bridging research and application, supporting both product development and process optimization.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EXu works with RBI members and industry partners to apply research insights to real-world manufacturing challenges, with a focus on reducing energy consumption and advancing next generation bioproducts.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/rbi.gatech.edu\/services\/multiphase-forming-pilot-facility\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELearn More\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/hanjiang-john-xu\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EHanjiang (John) Xu\u003C\/a\u003E serves as director of the Multiphase Forming Lab at Georgia Tech\u2019s Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI), where he leads efforts to advance more efficient and sustainable approaches to paper formation.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Hanjiang (John) Xu serves as director of the Multiphase Forming Lab at Georgia Tech\u2019s Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI), where he leads efforts to advance more efficient and sustainable approaches to paper formation. "}],"uid":"36757","created_gmt":"2026-04-16 19:35:41","changed_gmt":"2026-04-16 19:36:21","author":"ychernet3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-04-16T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-04-16T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679974":{"id":"679974","type":"image","title":"XU-2025-photo.jpeg","body":null,"created":"1776368149","gmt_created":"2026-04-16 19:35:49","changed":"1776368149","gmt_changed":"2026-04-16 19:35:49","alt":"Headshot of John Xu","file":{"fid":"264201","name":"XU-2025-photo.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/16\/XU-2025-photo.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/16\/XU-2025-photo.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1771850,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/04\/16\/XU-2025-photo.jpeg?itok=ja66mJhA"}}},"media_ids":["679974"],"groups":[{"id":"372221","name":"Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI)"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39491","name":"Renewable Bioproducts"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:ychernet3@gatech.edu\u0022\u003EYanet Chernet\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ECommunications Officer\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"689785":{"#nid":"689785","#data":{"type":"news","title":"RBI Announces New Fellowships, Expanding Interdisciplinary Reach  ","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/rbi1.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ERenewable Bioproducts Institute\u003C\/a\u003E (RBI) has announced its newest cohort of 12 fellowship projects, an expansion that reflects both growing interest and a broader vision for bioproducts research at Georgia Tech. \u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis year\u2019s cohort is one of the largest in recent years, signaling renewed momentum in the research areas it supports. \u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThis year\u2019s projects reflect the strength of our core areas while also showing how the field is expanding,\u201d said \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/carson-meredith\u0022\u003ECarson Meredith\u003C\/a\u003E, executive director of RBI. \u201cWe\u2019re seeing faculty from more disciplines engage in bioproducts research in ways that open up new opportunities for collaboration and impact.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat expansion is reflected in where the fellowships are being awarded. For the first time, RBI has selected faculty from the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/arch.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Architecture (ARCH)\u003C\/a\u003E in the College of Design and the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/biosciences.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Biological Sciences (BIOS)\u003C\/a\u003E in the College of Science, continuing to broaden participation beyond its traditional base in chemistry and engineering.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe projects themselves reflect that shift. This year\u2019s projects work on topics ranging from microbial approaches to strengthening forest health to developing next-generation packaging materials, including high-performance barrier coatings and cellulose-derived materials.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe projects also advance the use of AI and machine learning in bioproducts development, the physics of fiber networks, and converting biomass into pharmaceuticals and synthetic leather.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMany of these efforts align closely with industry priorities, particularly in packaging, papermaking, and sustainable materials\u2014areas where demand for scalable, sustainable solutions continues to grow.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETogether, the 2026 cohort points to a program that is expanding its reach across disciplines while staying focused on real-world applications of bioproduct research.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe 2026 RBI Fellowship projects and associated faculty are listed below.\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPhysics-Guided Learning of Mechanical Behavior in Forming-Stage Fiber Networks\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/faculty\/xia\u0022\u003EShuman Xia\u003C\/a\u003E*, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/faculty\/zhu-1\u0022\u003ETing Zhu\u003C\/a\u003E*, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/hanjiang-john-xu\u0022\u003EJohn Xu\u003C\/a\u003E (ME\/RBI)\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUpcycling Wood-Derived Cellulose Nanomaterials into Circular Barrier Coatings for Postharvest Preservation\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.chbe.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/vida-jamali\u0022\u003EVida Jamali\u003C\/a\u003E*, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/amirali-aghazadeh\u0022\u003EAmirali Aghazadeh\u003C\/a\u003E*, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.chbe.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/lily-cheung\u0022\u003ELily Cheung\u003C\/a\u003E (ChBE\/ECE)\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReimagining Southern Forests: Microbial Biotechnology for High Value Climate-Ready Biomass Feedstocks\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/joel-kostka\u0022\u003EJoel Kostka\u003C\/a\u003E*, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/e-m-ulrika-egertsdotter\u0022\u003EUlrika Egertsdotter\u003C\/a\u003E (BIOS\/RBI)\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIntegrated Experimental-Computational-ML Framework for Accelerated Evaluation and Design of Biodegradable Barrier Coating for Paper-Based Packaging\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ce.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/aditya-kumar\u0022\u003EAditya Kumar\u003C\/a\u003E*, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/yuhang-hu\u0022\u003EYuHang Hu\u003C\/a\u003E*, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.ce.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/danny-smyl\u0022\u003EDanny Smyl\u003C\/a\u003E* (CEE\/ME)\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDirect Method for Analysis of Fiber Orientation in Multiphase Forming\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/user\/1086\u0022\u003ESuhas Jain\u003C\/a\u003E*, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/faculty\/aidun\u0022\u003ECyrus Aidun\u003C\/a\u003E (ME)\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERobust Packaging Insert via Phase-Separated Lignin Aerogel Particle-Supported Cellulose Hydrogel Composites\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.mse.gatech.edu\/people\/shucong-li\u0022\u003EShucong Li\u003C\/a\u003E*, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.chbe.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/zhaohui-julene-tong\u0022\u003EJulene Tong \u003C\/a\u003E(MSE\/ChBE)\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETowards Continuous Processes from Biochar to Pharmaceuticals\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.chbe.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/andreas-bommarius\u0022\u003EAndy Bommarius\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/chemistry.gatech.edu\/people\/anthony-j-bo-arduengo\u0022\u003EAnthony \u0022Bo\u0022 Arduengo\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/chemistry.gatech.edu\/people\/jesse-mcdaniel\u0022\u003EJesse McDaniel\u003C\/a\u003E (ChBE\/CHEM)\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EALD Modification of Nanocellulosic Films for Ultra-High Barrier Performance\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.mse.gatech.edu\/people\/mark-losego\u0022\u003EMark Losego\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.mse.gatech.edu\/people\/meisha-shofner\u0022\u003EMeisha Shofner\u003C\/a\u003E (MSE)\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBiomass-Derived Glycosyl Furans for the Development of Novel Value-Added Materials\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/chemistry.gatech.edu\/people\/stefan-france\u0022\u003EStefan France\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.chbe.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/christopher-jones\u0022\u003EChris Jones\u003C\/a\u003E (CHEM\/ChBE)\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDesign and Scale-Up of Mechanochemical Reactors for Cellulose Biorefining\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.chbe.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/fani-boukouvala\u0022\u003EFani Boukouvala\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.chbe.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/carsten-sievers\u0022\u003ECarsten Sievers\u003C\/a\u003E (ChBE)\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EXylohyde\u2122: The Sustainable Production of Synthetic Leather from Cellulose\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/chemistry.gatech.edu\/people\/anthony-j-bo-arduengo\u0022\u003EAnthony \u0022Bo\u0022 Arduengo\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.chbe.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/christopher-luettgen\u0022\u003EChris Luettgen\u003C\/a\u003E (CHEM\/RBI\/ChBE)\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETailorable PLA-Alginate High-Performance Bio-Nanocomposites via Chitosan Cationic Bridging of Sargassum-Derived Alginate and Polylactic Acid (PLA)\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.mse.gatech.edu\/people\/karl-jacob\u0022\u003EKarl Jacob\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/arch.gatech.edu\/people\/inge-rocker\u0022\u003EIngebourg Rocker\u003C\/a\u003E*, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/faculty\/kalaitzidou\u0022\u003EKyriaki Kalaitzidou\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.mse.gatech.edu\/people\/hamid-garmestani\u0022\u003EHamid Garmestani\u003C\/a\u003E (ME, ARCH, MSE)\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cem\u003E*Indicates first-time RBI fellowship recipients.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/em\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI) has announced its newest cohort of 12 fellowship projects, an expansion that reflects both growing interest and a broader vision for bioproducts research at Georgia Tech. \u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI) has announced its newest cohort of 12 fellowship projects, an expansion that reflects both growing interest and a broader vision for bioproducts research at Georgia Tech.  "}],"uid":"36757","created_gmt":"2026-04-16 06:37:58","changed_gmt":"2026-04-16 15:30:14","author":"ychernet3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-04-16T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-04-16T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"groups":[{"id":"372221","name":"Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI)"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39491","name":"Renewable Bioproducts"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:ychernet3@gatech.edu\u0022\u003EYanet Chernet\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ECommunications Officer\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"689776":{"#nid":"689776","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Inside RBI\u2019s Labs: Rallming Yang\u2019s Work Supporting Industry and Biomass Research","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI) supports industry and research partners through a range of testing and analysis services\u2014and much of that work runs through the labs led by Rallming Yang, a senior research scientist at the institute.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith a Ph.D. in Environmental and Resource Engineering from the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry and earlier degrees in pulping and paper engineering from the South China University of Technology, Yang brings decades of experience in wood chemistry, chemical analysis, analytical method development, and lab management. He joined Georgia Tech in 2000 and has since taken on increasing leadership roles across RBI\u2019s lab operations.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYang\u2019s work sits at the intersection of research and industry. His team provides research, chemical testing and analysis for manufacturers working with biomass\u2014everything from pulp and paper mills to research groups developing new bio-based products. The goal is straightforward: understand what\u2019s in the material, how it behaves, and how to make processes more efficient and reliable.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToday, he oversees research and testing services that support both industry partners and academic communities. These services range from chemical composition analysis to process troubleshooting, helping companies better understand materials derived from biomass and optimize their operations.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition to leading lab operations, Yang also teaches the Pulp \u0026amp; Bleaching Lab course at Georgia Tech, giving students hands-on experience with the same analytical techniques used in industry. As industries continue to look for more efficient and environmentally responsible ways to use natural resources, Yang\u2019s work and his labs play a critical role in making that transition possible.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELearn more about the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/rbi.gatech.edu\/services\/chemical-analysis-testing\u0022\u003EChemical Analysis Lab\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/rbi.gatech.edu\/services\/pulp-analysis-testing\u0022\u003EPulp Analysis Lab\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI) supports industry and research partners through a range of testing and analysis services\u2014and much of that work runs through the labs led by Rallming Yang, a senior research scientist at the institute.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech\u2019s Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI) supports industry and research partners through a range of testing and analysis services\u2014and much of that work runs through the labs led by Rallming Yang, a senior research scientist at the institute."}],"uid":"36757","created_gmt":"2026-04-15 19:40:17","changed_gmt":"2026-04-15 19:42:29","author":"ychernet3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-04-15T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-04-15T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679966":{"id":"679966","type":"image","title":"Rallming Yang.png","body":null,"created":"1776282028","gmt_created":"2026-04-15 19:40:28","changed":"1776282028","gmt_changed":"2026-04-15 19:40:28","alt":"Photo of Rallming Yang in a lab holding a syringe ","file":{"fid":"264193","name":"Screenshot-2026-04-15-at-3.39.13-PM.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/15\/Screenshot-2026-04-15-at-3.39.13-PM.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/15\/Screenshot-2026-04-15-at-3.39.13-PM.png","mime":"image\/png","size":784983,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/04\/15\/Screenshot-2026-04-15-at-3.39.13-PM.png?itok=6iDp64hy"}}},"media_ids":["679966"],"groups":[{"id":"372221","name":"Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI)"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39491","name":"Renewable Bioproducts"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:ychernet3@gatech.edu\u0022\u003EYanet Chernet\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ECommunications Officer\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"689352":{"#nid":"689352","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Researchers Develop First Genetic Passcode Lock to Protect Valuable DNA","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EIn recent years, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Department of Homeland Security, and other authorities have flagged a record number of unauthorized shipments of biological materials. At the same time, global intelligence communities have identified numerous attempts to smuggle sensitive biological samples in efforts of industrial theft or espionage.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cA small vial of genetically engineered cells can contain multiple millions of dollars\u2019 worth of intellectual property and require several years of work to develop,\u201d said Corey Wilson, a professor in Georgia Tech\u2019s School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/chbe.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EChBE\u003C\/a\u003E). \u201cAccordingly, the protection of high-value engineered cell lines has become critically important to the biotechnology industry.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/wilson.chbe.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EWilson\u003C\/a\u003E and his research team have published their findings in \u003Cem\u003EScience Advances\u003C\/em\u003E demonstrating the effectiveness of their new biological security technology, known as GeneLock\u2122, in protecting high-value engineered cell lines.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGeneLock is a cybersecurity-inspired technology that protects valuable genetic material directly at the DNA level. To demonstrate its strength, Wilson\u2019s team conducted what they describe as a first-of-its-kind biohackathon, detailed in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.science.org\/doi\/10.1126\/sciadv.aeb8556\u0022\u003Enew paper\u003C\/a\u003E, to simulate unauthorized access.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cGeneLock greatly improves our ability to protect high-value engineered cell lines by expanding security from the lab environment to the genetic level,\u201d Wilson said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEconomic Impact\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat are the stakes? Estimates place the global market for high-value genetic materials at more than $1.5 trillion, projected to reach $8 trillion by 2035. The use of these materials ranges from advanced medicines and proprietary research enzymes to specialty chemicals and sustainable materials.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECurrently, the protection of high-value cell lines depends on physical safeguards such as restricted lab access and secure facilities, Wilson explained.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe key weakness of physical security measures is once circumvented, there are typically no measures in place to protect valuable cells from theft, abuse, or unauthorized use,\u201d Wilson said.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cOnce a sample leaves the building, the DNA it carries typically remains fully functional. This is like placing an unlocked cellphone in a desk drawer. Anyone who gains access to the drawer can view sensitive content on the phone\u00ad\u00ad\u00ad\u00ad\u00ad\u00ad\u00ad\u2014or in this case will have full access to the valuable cell line.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGenetic Passcode Protection\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe GeneLock biological security technology developed by Wilson and his team places a passcode on engineered cells, akin to those used on ATM machines and protected cellphones.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInstead of leaving a valuable gene in readable form, the team scrambles the DNA sequence of interest. The scrambled genetic asset remains in a nonfunctional state unless the living cell where it resides receives the correct sequence of chemical inputs. Those inputs act as a molecular passcode.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cOnly the right combination, delivered in the right order, rearranges the DNA into a working form,\u201d Wilson said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBiohackathon Security Test\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo evaluate the technology, the researchers organized a blue team and a red team in what they describe as an ethical biohackathon. The blue team designed the encrypted DNA sequence, while the red team was challenged to discover the correct chemical passcode through experimentation in a gray box exercise, meaning the red team had partial knowledge of the system but did not have access to the internal designs.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThis approach for testing security strength is commonly used in cybersecurity,\u201d Wilson explained.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe blue team engineered the system inside \u003Cem\u003EEscherichia coli\u003C\/em\u003E, or \u003Cem\u003EE. coli\u003C\/em\u003E, a bacterium widely used in biotechnology. The protected asset was a fluorescent protein gene selected as a measurable stand-in for commercially valuable targets. When the correct chemical sequence was applied, the fluorescence turned on. Without the correct passcode, the gene remained scrambled and the cells could not fluoresce green.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIn practice, most DNA sequences produce valuable proteins or chemicals that are essentially invisible to the human eye, requiring specialized devices or experiments to observe,\u201d Wilson said. \u201cIf the biohackathon were conducted with a standard commercially valuable target, the penetration testing would have taken more than 10 times longer to complete, years instead of months.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe biohackathon results showed a dramatic reduction in risk. GeneLock reduced the probability of unlocking the genetic asset by random search to about 1 in 85,000 (a 0.001% chance), assuming the unauthorized user had access to the required chemical inputs.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWithout access to those inputs, \u201cthe likelihood of success by chance becomes effectively negligible,\u201d said Dowan Kim (Georgia Tech PhD 2024), co-lead author of the study.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECommercial Uses and What\u2019s Next\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlthough the researchers used a non-commercial fluorescent protein as a test case, the implications extend much further. Many biotechnology companies rely on proprietary engineered strains. New England Biolabs, for example, produces more than 265 non-disclosed enzymes in E. coli, each representing a high-value cell line.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EProtein-based drugs are also manufactured in living cells, and proprietary metabolic pathways are used to produce specialty chemicals, bioplastics, and high-value ingredients.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIn each case, the genetic blueprint inside the cell represents intellectual property that can be protected by our technology,\u201d said Ishita Kumar, a PhD candidate in ChBE and co-lead author of the study.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile the team\u2019s current focus is on protecting intellectual property in the form of high-value cells, future iterations aim to strengthen biological security more broadly.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe are currently developing protection measures to mitigate unauthorized use or release of sensitive cell lines that can be potentially hazardous to human health or the environment,\u201d Wilson said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cAs it stands, GeneLock represents an important shift in biological security, enabling, for the first time, protection of valuable cells at the genetic level, even after physical security measures have been bypassed,\u201d he added.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe work is already moving toward commercialization. The team filed a provisional patent application with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office in February 2026 and is forming a company to deploy the technology.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECITATION:\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDowan Kim, Ishita Kumar, Mohamed Hassan, Luisa F. Barraza-Vergara, Christopher A. Voigt, and Corey J. Wilson, \u201c\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.science.org\/doi\/10.1126\/sciadv.aeb8556\u0022\u003EProtecting cells at the genetic level and simulating unauthorized access via a biohackathon\u003C\/a\u003E,\u201d Science Advances, 2026.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"New System Strengthens Security for the Biotech Industry"}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeneLock is a cybersecurity-inspired technology that protects valuable genetic material directly at the DNA level. To demonstrate its strength, the rearches conducted what they describe as a first-of-its-kind biohackathon to simulate unauthorized access.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Research published in Science Advances demonstrated the effectiveness of this technology in protecting high-value engineered cell lines."}],"uid":"27271","created_gmt":"2026-04-01 17:57:53","changed_gmt":"2026-04-14 16:55:03","author":"Brad Dixon","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-04-01T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-04-01T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679818":{"id":"679818","type":"image","title":"Wilsonresearchteam.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EResearch team members Ishita Kumar,\u0026nbsp;Corey Wilson,\u0026nbsp;and Luisa F. Barraza-Vergara\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1775066280","gmt_created":"2026-04-01 17:58:00","changed":"1775066280","gmt_changed":"2026-04-01 17:58:00","alt":"Research team members Ishita Kumar, Corey Wilson, and Luisa F. Barraza-Vergara","file":{"fid":"264022","name":"Wilsonresearchteam.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/01\/Wilsonresearchteam.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/01\/Wilsonresearchteam.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":2729628,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/04\/01\/Wilsonresearchteam.jpg?itok=uDoLEes8"}},"679819":{"id":"679819","type":"image","title":"biohackathon.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ETo evaluate the GeneLock technology, the researchers organized a blue team and a red team into a biohackathon.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1775066327","gmt_created":"2026-04-01 17:58:47","changed":"1775066327","gmt_changed":"2026-04-01 17:58:47","alt":"To evaluate the GeneLock technology, the researchers organized a blue team and a red team into a biohackathon.","file":{"fid":"264023","name":"biohackathon.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/01\/biohackathon.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/01\/biohackathon.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":91942,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/04\/01\/biohackathon.jpg?itok=PdOgnWMg"}}},"media_ids":["679818","679819"],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"138","name":"Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics"},{"id":"145","name":"Engineering"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"175579","name":"biotech industry"},{"id":"3031","name":"genetic"},{"id":"1041","name":"dna"},{"id":"175113","name":"biosecurity"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"},{"id":"193658","name":"Commercialization"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EBrad Dixon, \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:braddixon@gatech.edu\u0022\u003Ebraddixon@gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["braddixon@gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"689713":{"#nid":"689713","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Universities and U.K. Partners Strengthen Collaboration on Critical Minerals at GEMS\u20114 Symposium","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EIn February, the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia Institute of Technology\u003C\/a\u003E, \u0026nbsp;together with the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.uga.edu\/\u0022\u003EUniversity of Georgia\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gsu.edu\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia State University\u003C\/a\u003E, the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/georgiamining.org\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia Mining Association\u003C\/a\u003E, and the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/world\/organisations\/british-consulate-general-atlanta\u0022\u003EBritish Consulate\u2011General Atlanta\u003C\/a\u003E, hosted the fourth Growing Partnerships for Essential Minerals (\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/gems.research.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EGEMs\u20114\u003C\/a\u003E) workshop in Atlanta. The workshop built on a growing transatlantic partnership dedicated to advancing innovation across the critical minerals value chain.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe\u0026nbsp;two\u2011day event took place Feb. 4 \u2013 5, coinciding with the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.state.gov\/releases\/office-of-the-spokesperson\/2026\/02\/2026-critical-minerals-ministerial\u0022\u003ECritical Minerals Ministerial\u003C\/a\u003E hosted by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 4, which brought together more than 50 nations to strengthen and diversify global critical mineral supply chains. During this ministerial, U.K. Minister Seema Malhotra and U.S. Under Secretary of State Jacob Helberg signed a Critical Minerals Memorandum of Understanding, strengthening bilateral cooperation between the United States and the United Kingdom on critical mineral supply chains.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese broad efforts are supported by White House Executive Order 14363, which defines the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/genesis.energy.gov\/\u0022\u003EGenesis Mission\u003C\/a\u003E and aims to accelerate scientific discovery through AI. The order identifies critical minerals supply chain resilience as a national security imperative.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn Atlanta, these themes were brought to life in real time. The GEMs-4 workshop brought together researchers, policymakers, national labs, industry leaders, and workforce organizations from both the U.S. and the U.K. to address shared challenges in technology translation, permitting, investment, and talent development.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe state of Georgia\u2019s integrated ecosystem, linking research universities, legacy industries, technical colleges, national labs, and public\u2011private partnerships, served as a case study. Presenters highlighted how existing industrial assets in the Southeast are being incorporated into emerging clean energy and critical minerals supply chains, offering a model for other regions seeking to build capabilities around extraction, processing, and manufacturing.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA U.K. member of Parliament representing Cornwall, where the U.K. has lithium reserves and deep critical mineral expertise, joined the convening, as well as representatives from the U.K. Critical Mineral Association, Camborne School of Mines, and the University of Kent. Together, they explored opportunities and challenges, from a fundamental science to a commercialization perspective grounded in real-world experience.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe alignment between the ministerial in Washington and the expertise present in Atlanta demonstrated the value of state-level engagement and how national agreements translate into practical collaboration on the ground.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe Southeast has the research depth, industrial footprint, and collaborative spirit needed to lead in critical minerals innovation,\u201d\u0026nbsp;said \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/energy.gatech.edu\/people\/yuanzhi-tang\u0022\u003EYuanzhi Tang\u003C\/a\u003E, Georgia Power Professor in the School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, executive director of the Strategic Energy Institute, and founding director of the Center for Critical Mineral Solutions at Georgia Tech. \u201cGEMs\u20114 showed what\u2019s possible when universities, industry, and government partners align around shared priorities.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDay one featured strategic dialogue on critical mineral resources, innovation pathways, and partnership models. A recurring theme was the co-production of critical minerals alongside major mineral commodities. \u201cMany critical minerals are produced as byproducts of larger mining operations, making it essential to integrate recovery strategies into existing mineral industries rather than developing entirely new extraction systems,\u201d noted \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cas.gsu.edu\/profile\/w-crawford-elliott\/\u0022\u003ECrawford Elliott\u003C\/a\u003E, professor of geosciences at Georgia State University.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDay two transitioned to field\u2011based learning, led by \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/geology.uga.edu\/directory\/people\/paul-schroeder\u0022\u003EPaul Schroeder\u003C\/a\u003E, professor of geology at the University of Georgia. Participants visited active operations to better understand how regional industrial strengths can support national and international supply chain goals. Schroeder said, \u201cConnecting people to the long-standing mineral extraction economy at the mining and plant sites, where the work gets done with an amazingly skilled workforce, underscores the unique role of Georgia\u2019s place\u2011based capacity in advancing national and transatlantic supply\u0026nbsp;chain goals.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOrganizers emphasized that resilient supply chains rely on regional capabilities built over time through university collaboration, industry partnerships, and community engagement. With three years of inter\u2011university coordination now underpinning the GEMS platform, the 2026 workshop demonstrated how the Southeast is contributing actionable models for U.S.-U.K. cooperation.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cEcosystem-building at this scale requires participation from every part of the value chain, and we are encouraged by the model GEMs presents,\u201d said\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/rachel-galloway-518014292\/\u0022\u003ERachel Galloway\u003C\/a\u003E, Consul General at British Consulate General Atlanta. \u201cThe collaboration across universities, industry, and government is exactly what enables long\u2011term impact on both sides of the Atlantic.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThrough focused dialogue and partnership-building, the symposium strengthened transatlantic collaboration, highlighted regional strengths, and accelerated innovation and translation across the critical minerals value chain, from resource characterization and processing to recycling, manufacturing, and deployment.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor more information about the GEMS initiative, visit: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/gems.research.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003Ehttps:\/\/gems.research.gatech.edu\/\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EIn February, the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia Institute of Technology\u003C\/a\u003E, \u0026nbsp;together with the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.uga.edu\/\u0022\u003EUniversity of Georgia\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gsu.edu\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia State University\u003C\/a\u003E, the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/georgiamining.org\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia Mining Association\u003C\/a\u003E, and the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/world\/organisations\/british-consulate-general-atlanta\u0022\u003EBritish Consulate\u2011General Atlanta\u003C\/a\u003E, hosted the fourth Growing Partnerships for Essential Minerals (\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/gems.research.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EGEMs\u20114\u003C\/a\u003E) workshop in Atlanta. The workshop built on a growing transatlantic partnership dedicated to advancing innovation across the critical minerals value chain.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"In February, the Georgia Institute of Technology,  together with the University of Georgia, Georgia State University, the Georgia Mining Association, and the British Consulate\u2011General Atlanta, hosted the fourth GEMs workshop."}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2026-04-13 17:45:13","changed_gmt":"2026-04-13 18:25:18","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-04-13T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-04-13T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679927":{"id":"679927","type":"image","title":"20260204_GEMs-IV-Group-Photo_LR.jpeg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EGroup photo of the attendees of the GEMs-4 symposium.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1776102371","gmt_created":"2026-04-13 17:46:11","changed":"1776102371","gmt_changed":"2026-04-13 17:46:11","alt":"Attendees of the GEMs-4 symposium","file":{"fid":"264149","name":"20260204_GEMs-IV-Group-Photo_LR.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/13\/20260204_GEMs-IV-Group-Photo_LR.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/13\/20260204_GEMs-IV-Group-Photo_LR.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1521193,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/04\/13\/20260204_GEMs-IV-Group-Photo_LR.jpeg?itok=46uGjXAX"}},"679928":{"id":"679928","type":"image","title":"31932AB2-B646-4E29-9BEF-3FD7C6054815.JPG.jpeg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EDay 2 of the symposium included a visit to a Georgia mining operation.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1776102491","gmt_created":"2026-04-13 17:48:11","changed":"1776102491","gmt_changed":"2026-04-13 17:48:11","alt":"Day 2 of the symposium included a visit to a Georgia mining operation","file":{"fid":"264150","name":"31932AB2-B646-4E29-9BEF-3FD7C6054815.JPG.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/13\/31932AB2-B646-4E29-9BEF-3FD7C6054815.JPG.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/13\/31932AB2-B646-4E29-9BEF-3FD7C6054815.JPG.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":2766293,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/04\/13\/31932AB2-B646-4E29-9BEF-3FD7C6054815.JPG.jpeg?itok=6UE7bW0o"}},"679929":{"id":"679929","type":"image","title":"P1003694-Attendees-LR.jpeg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAttendees at the GEMs-4 workshop\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1776103013","gmt_created":"2026-04-13 17:56:53","changed":"1776103013","gmt_changed":"2026-04-13 17:56:53","alt":"Attendees at the GEMs-4 workshop","file":{"fid":"264151","name":"P1003694-Attendees-LR.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/13\/P1003694-Attendees-LR.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/13\/P1003694-Attendees-LR.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":672603,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/04\/13\/P1003694-Attendees-LR.jpeg?itok=WORRhc1_"}},"679930":{"id":"679930","type":"image","title":"P1003821-panel.jpeg","body":"\u003Cp\u003ECritical Mineral Significance and Resources Panel at the GEMs-4 symposium\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1776103013","gmt_created":"2026-04-13 17:56:53","changed":"1776103013","gmt_changed":"2026-04-13 17:56:53","alt":"Panelists discussing at the GEMs-4 symposium","file":{"fid":"264152","name":"P1003821-panel.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/13\/P1003821-panel.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/13\/P1003821-panel.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":614552,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/04\/13\/P1003821-panel.jpeg?itok=wPJagMbS"}},"679931":{"id":"679931","type":"image","title":"P1003941-AttendeeQuestions.jpeg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAttendee asking a question to the panel at the GEMS-4 Symposium\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1776103013","gmt_created":"2026-04-13 17:56:53","changed":"1776103013","gmt_changed":"2026-04-13 17:56:53","alt":"Attendee asking a question to the panel at the GEMS-4 Symposium","file":{"fid":"264153","name":"P1003941-AttendeeQuestions.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/13\/P1003941-AttendeeQuestions.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/13\/P1003941-AttendeeQuestions.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":646826,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/04\/13\/P1003941-AttendeeQuestions.jpeg?itok=tVXDFwY1"}}},"media_ids":["679927","679928","679929","679930","679931"],"groups":[{"id":"1278","name":"College of Sciences"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"},{"id":"660398","name":"Sustainability Hub"}],"categories":[{"id":"42901","name":"Community"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"133","name":"Special Events and Guest Speakers"},{"id":"194611","name":"State Impact"},{"id":"194612","name":"Workforce Development"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EPriya Devarajan\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EGeorgia Tech\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:sydnie.hammond@fcdo.gov.uk\u0022\u003ESydnie Hammond\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EBritish Consulate-Atlanta\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:ahead13@gsu.edu\u0022\u003EAmanda Head\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EGeorgia State University\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:Kay.Torrance@uga.edu\u0022\u003EKay Alison Torrance\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EUniversity of Georgia\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:leelemke@georgiamining.org\u0022\u003ELee Lemke\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EGeorgia Mining Association\u003C\/div\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"689605":{"#nid":"689605","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Researchers Use Light to Make Their Microscopic \u2018Muscle\u2019 Contract on Command","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEngineers interested in creating artificial cells to deliver drugs to unhealthy parts of the body face a key challenge: for a cell-like system to move, change shape, or divide, it needs a way to generate force on command.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBiological cells rely on adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to move muscles, transport substances across membranes, and perform other functions.\u0026nbsp;Many cellular machines couple ATP hydrolysis (a process where chemical energy stored in ATP is released) directly to motion.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut some single-celled organisms called ciliates use a different strategy. A pulse of calcium triggers an ultrafast contraction, and ATP is used afterward to pump calcium back into storage and reset the system.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn a \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s41467-026-69651-2\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENature Communications\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E study\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E led by Georgia Tech, researchers learned how to use a similar mechanism to control the movements of artificial protein networks without relying on ATP-powered motor proteins. Instead, they used calcium as a trigger to make the networks contract or relax.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIf engineers want synthetic cells that can do cell-like things, they need a way to generate force on command,\u201d said \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.chbe.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/saad-bhamla\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESaad Bhamla\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, a co-author and an associate professor in Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.chbe.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESchool of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E. \u201cCells have to move, change shape, and divide. We\u2019re trying to build a controllable engine from simple parts.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the National Science Foundation-funded study, the team produced and purified \u003Cem\u003ETetrahymena thermophila\u003C\/em\u003E calcium-binding protein 2 (Tcb2), which is found in ciliates. The protein forms a fibrous network and contracts when exposed to calcium. The researchers reconstituted Tcb2 protein networks in the lab and then used a light-sensitive calcium chelator (a \u201ccage\u201d molecule that holds the calcium until illuminated) to control when and where calcium was released.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThey projected light patterns of stars and circles to prompt the network to assemble and contract in matching shapes. Then, to continuously \u201crecharge\u201d the system, the multi-university team pulsed the light on the protein networks, repeatedly releasing calcium and driving cycles of assembly and contraction.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/coe.gatech.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/researchers-use-light-make-their-microscopic-muscle-contract-command?utm_source=twitter\u0026amp;utm_medium=social\u0026amp;utm_campaign=news\u0022\u003ERead the full story.\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EIn a \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s41467-026-69651-2\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENature Communications\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E study\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E led by Georgia Tech, researchers learned how to use a similar mechanism to control the movements of artificial protein networks without relying on ATP-powered motor proteins. Instead, they used calcium as a trigger to make the networks contract or relax.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Engineers interested in creating artificial cells to deliver drugs to unhealthy parts of the body face a key challenge: for a cell-like system to move, change shape, or divide, it needs a way to generate force on command."}],"uid":"36479","created_gmt":"2026-04-10 12:47:50","changed_gmt":"2026-04-10 12:49:38","author":"abowman41","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-04-10T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-04-10T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679909":{"id":"679909","type":"image","title":"artificial-cells.jpg","body":null,"created":"1775825279","gmt_created":"2026-04-10 12:47:59","changed":"1775825279","gmt_changed":"2026-04-10 12:47:59","alt":"A yellow star shape is shown next to a microscope image of an artificial cell colony that has been directed to form the shape of a star.","file":{"fid":"264130","name":"artificial-cells.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/10\/artificial-cells.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/10\/artificial-cells.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":17653,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/04\/10\/artificial-cells.jpg?itok=XEcClJeF"}}},"media_ids":["679909"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/coe.gatech.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/researchers-use-light-make-their-microscopic-muscle-contract-command?utm_source=twitter\u0026utm_medium=social\u0026utm_campaign=news","title":"Full Story"}],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"138","name":"Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"188776","name":"go-research"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EJason Maderer\u003Cbr\u003EDirector of Communications | College of Engineering\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686633":{"#nid":"686633","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Community Spotlight - Iris Tien","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ELast summer, when the City of Atlanta declared a \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.cnn.com\/2024\/06\/01\/us\/atlanta-ga-water-main-breaks\u0022\u003Estate of emergency\u003C\/a\u003E following multiple water main breaks that left parts of downtown without water, Iris Tien provided commentary to news outlets such as \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gpb.org\/news\/2024\/06\/03\/georgia-today-water-woes-continue-in-atl-georgia-opts-out-of-summer-ebt-atl-united\u0022\u003EGPB\u003C\/a\u003E. Tien, the Williams Family Associate Professor in the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, said the aging infrastructure is \u201csomething we see in Atlanta and other cities across the U.S. Most water systems are designed for 50 to 100 years.\u201d Much of Atlanta is well past that mark.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow in her 11th year at Georgia Tech, Tien considers Atlanta an ideal environment for her work. \u201cBeing in a large metropolitan area has been great for collaborating with municipalities and utility providers,\u201d says Tien, who has worked with the Georgia Department of Transportation, the City of Atlanta\u2019s Department of Watershed Management, and Atlanta\u2019s Emergency Response Department.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETien considers resilience \u2014 withstanding and recovering from adverse events affecting communities \u2014 a key part of sustainability. Her research focuses on how to design better systems to meet community needs, especially under increasingly hazardous conditions where there is more strain on infrastructure.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETien serves as principal investigator for a \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/sustainability\/seed-grants\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/sustainability\/seed-grants\u0022\u003ESustainability Next Seed Grant\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;that is a collaborative effort between Georgia Tech and Oak Ridge National Laboratory to create a Climate Atlas for the southeastern U.S. The project integrates detailed climate data with critical infrastructure asset information, socioeconomic indicators, and stories of climate impacts on communities to support climate mitigation and adaptation. In addition, Tien has led projects to develop a framework to help communities identify the right kinds of flood-control infrastructure. Choosing the correct type of technology now is critical as sea levels and flood risk rise, especially in coastal areas.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETien says new technologies are leading to a better understanding and design of infrastructure systems, but have also exposed new vulnerabilities. Increasingly, she and her colleagues are considering potential cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, which represent a growing threat that could affect both utility providers and the people who rely on these essential services.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cFrom a civil engineering standpoint, if you disrupt any one of these systems, it could have a very large impact,\u201d says the Berkeley engineering graduate.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETien\u2019s expertise extends to Georgia\u2019s coast, where she is part of a team that hopes to increase community resilience in relation to flooding. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/recent-funding-sea-level-sensor-project-savannah-moves-new-phase\u0022\u003EOne project\u003C\/a\u003E involves installing sea-level sensors throughout Chatham County, the easternmost county in Georgia. The sensors monitor water levels in real time. A Georgia Tech tool helps coastal areas find ideal spots for water-level sensors based on flood risk and population vulnerability.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe\u2019ve looked at green versus gray solutions,\u201d Tien said, explaining that green solutions could be ponds or basins to slow down water flow during flood events, while gray solutions might include new stormwater pipe systems to quickly move the water away.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeing connected to BBISS through the Sustainability Next Seed Grant program has enhanced Tien\u2019s ability to work cross-functionally. \u201cI definitely collaborate with social scientists, especially on the human and community engagement side of my work,\u201d she says.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA recent project involved developing a new flood-risk curriculum for middle school students in coastal communities. \u201cThe program helped build disaster resilience while empowering young people to be better advocates for their communities,\u201d says Tien.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThere\u2019s an opportunity to engage with youth early on and help them better understand their communities. Empowering them in this way means that they can serve as strong advocates for improving their communities into the future.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn her free time, Tien likes spending time outdoors, hiking, and playing an occasional pickup basketball game. \u201cBeing in nature gives you time to think and refresh yourself,\u201d she says.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E-- written by Anne Wainscott-Sargent\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"Civil Engineer Champions Infrastructure Monitoring and Community Resilience"}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ETien considers resilience \u2014 withstanding and recovering from adverse events affecting communities \u2014 a key part of sustainability. Her research focuses on how to design better systems to meet community needs, especially under increasingly hazardous conditions where there is more strain on infrastructure.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Tien considers resilience a key part of sustainability. She focuses on how to design better systems to meet community needs."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2025-11-26 15:45:31","changed_gmt":"2026-04-08 16:17:09","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-11-26T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-11-26T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678724":{"id":"678724","type":"image","title":"Iris-Tien.jpg","body":null,"created":"1764172104","gmt_created":"2025-11-26 15:48:24","changed":"1764172104","gmt_changed":"2025-11-26 15:48:24","alt":"Portrait of Iris Tien","file":{"fid":"262794","name":"Iris-Tien.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/26\/Iris-Tien.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/26\/Iris-Tien.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":275493,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/26\/Iris-Tien.jpg?itok=XYfbg9wN"}}},"media_ids":["678724"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[{"id":"194836","name":"Sustainability"}],"keywords":[{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@sustainable.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Research Communications Program Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@sustainable.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"689562":{"#nid":"689562","#data":{"type":"news","title":"2026 Suddath Symposium Showcases Biomedical Applications of Synthetic Biology","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe 34th\u0026nbsp;annual\u0026nbsp;Suddath Symposium, hosted by the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/bio\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EParker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;(IBB)\u0026nbsp;on March 18-19,\u0026nbsp;brought together researchers, trainees, and invited speakers from across disciplines to discuss\u0026nbsp;cutting-edge\u0026nbsp;efforts to translate synthetic biology advances into human health-relevant technologies, including diagnostics, therapeutics, and clinical tools\u003Cstrong\u003E.\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe topic of the Suddath Symposium changes every year, which allows the Georgia Tech research community to annually learn about recent advances on a specific topic from across the immense fields of\u0026nbsp;bioengineering and\u0026nbsp;bioscience,\u201d\u0026nbsp;said\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/3718\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ENicholas Hud\u003C\/a\u003E,\u0026nbsp;Regents\u2019 Professor in the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/chemistry.gatech.edu\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ESchool of Chemistry and Biochemistry\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;and\u0026nbsp;Associate Director of IBB.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe symposium also included presentation of the\u0026nbsp;2026 Suddath Award, which recognizes outstanding graduate research. This year\u2019s award was presented to\u0026nbsp;Myeongsoo\u0026nbsp;Kim, a Ph.D. candidate in the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/bioengineering.gatech.edu\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EBioengineering Graduate Program\u003C\/a\u003E,\u0026nbsp;for his work at the intersection of cell engineering,\u0026nbsp;cancer treatment, and biomedical imaging.\u0026nbsp;The award is presented each year by members of the Suddath family, including Vincent Suddath,\u0026nbsp;grandson of Bud and\u0026nbsp;a current\u0026nbsp;freshman\u0026nbsp;at Georgia Tech majoring in mathematics.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe symposium and award\u0026nbsp;honor the legacy of\u0026nbsp;F. L. \u201cBud\u201d Suddath\u0026nbsp;and his lasting contributions to the Institute and the wider Georgia Tech research community.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cBud was influential in promoting the growth of bioscience research at Georgia Tech, efforts that helped establish\u0026nbsp;IBB\u0026nbsp;in the 1990s,\u201d Hud said. \u201cBud\u2019s\u0026nbsp;research interests were at the forefront of structural biology, a field that laid the foundation for much of what we know today about biology at the molecular level.\u0026nbsp;It\u2019s\u0026nbsp;fitting that we honor Bud\u2019s\u0026nbsp;contributions by annually providing the Georgia Tech community with the opportunity to learn about\u0026nbsp;research on a timely topic within the biological sciences.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESymposium co-chairs\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/bme.gatech.edu\/bio\/tara-l-deans\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ETara Deans\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;and\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/2915\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EMark Styczynski\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;said that in addition to upholding the legacy of Bud Suddath, the event also\u0026nbsp;provides a unique setting and opportunity for both established researchers and trainees to interact over the course of the two day event.\u0026nbsp;The intimate format of the symposium, which is limited to approximately 100 attendees, and the annual selection of a different interdisciplinary topic\u0026nbsp;sets\u0026nbsp;it apart\u0026nbsp;from other\u0026nbsp;symposia.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe Suddath Symposium is an amazing opportunity to bring multiple world-class researchers right to our trainees\u2019 front door, to hear about their work and connect with them in a small setting that you can\u2019t really find at most conferences,\u201d said\u0026nbsp;Styczynski,\u0026nbsp;who is a professor in the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.chbe.gatech.edu\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ESchool of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E. \u201cWe are really grateful to IBB and the Suddath family for supporting this unique event.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDeans, who is an associate professor in the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/bme.gatech.edu\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EWallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E,\u0026nbsp;highlighted how this year\u2019s theme reflects a broader shift in the field.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThis year\u2019s focus on biomedical applications of synthetic biology highlights a major inflection point in the field: the transition from proof-of-concept systems to human health-relevant technologies,\u201d she said.\u0026nbsp;\u201cThe theme also reflects increasing convergence across disciplines; synthetic biology is no longer\u0026nbsp;operating\u0026nbsp;in isolation,\u0026nbsp;but it is deeply intertwined with immunology, machine learning, diagnostics, and clinical translation. Addressing real-world biomedical problems requires this kind of integration, and the symposium captured that shift very clearly.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Suddath Symposium annually serves as a cornerstone event for Georgia Tech\u2019s bioengineering and bioscience community\u0026nbsp;\u2014\u0026nbsp;connecting researchers, honoring scientific legacy, and spotlighting the next generation of scientific innovation.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe 34th annual Suddath Symposium brought together researchers, trainees, and invited speakers from across disciplines to discuss cutting-edge efforts to translate synthetic biology advances into human health-relevant technologies. In addition to upholding the legacy of Bud Suddath, the event also\u0026nbsp;provides a unique setting and opportunity for both established researchers and trainees to interact\u0026nbsp;in a closer setting.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The 34th annual Suddath Symposium brought together researchers, trainees, and invited speakers from across disciplines to discuss cutting-edge efforts to translate synthetic biology advances into human health-relevant technologies."}],"uid":"36479","created_gmt":"2026-04-08 14:27:05","changed_gmt":"2026-04-08 14:30:37","author":"abowman41","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-04-08T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-04-08T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679893":{"id":"679893","type":"image","title":"2026-Suddath-Symposium.jpg","body":null,"created":"1775658434","gmt_created":"2026-04-08 14:27:14","changed":"1775658434","gmt_changed":"2026-04-08 14:27:14","alt":"A presenter stands at the front of a lecture room speaking to a seated audience while a projected slide titled \u201cSynthetic Biology: Engineered Gene Circuits\u201d illustrates the design\u2013build\u2013test cycle with diagrams and icons explaining gene circuit construction and testing.","file":{"fid":"264114","name":"2026-Suddath-Symposium.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/08\/2026-Suddath-Symposium.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/08\/2026-Suddath-Symposium.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1840500,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/04\/08\/2026-Suddath-Symposium.jpg?itok=1yDWHq1D"}}},"media_ids":["679893"],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"138","name":"Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAshlie Bowman | Communications Manager\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EParker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"687195":{"#nid":"687195","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Illness Is More Than Just Biological \u2013 Medical Sociology Shows How Social Factors Get Under the Skin and Cause\u00a0Disease","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv class=\u0022theconversation-article-body\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHealth and medicine is more than just biological \u2013 societal forces can \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1146\/annurev.publhealth.29.020907.090852\u0022\u003Eget under your skin and cause illness\u003C\/a\u003E. Medical sociologists \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?user=HQtYrggAAAAJ\u0026amp;hl=en\u0022\u003Elike me study these forces\u003C\/a\u003E by treating society itself as our laboratory. Health and illness are our experiments in uncovering meaning, power and inequality, and how it affects all parts of a person\u2019s life.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor example, why do low-income communities \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nationalacademies.org\/read\/19015\u0022\u003Econtinue to have higher death rates\u003C\/a\u003E, despite improved social and environmental conditions across society? Foundational research in medical sociology reveals that \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.2307\/2626958\u0022\u003Eaccess to resources\u003C\/a\u003E like money, knowledge, power and social networks strongly affects a person\u2019s health. Medical sociologists have shown that \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/0022146510383498\u0022\u003Esocial class is linked to numerous diseases and mortality\u003C\/a\u003E, including risk factors that influence health and longevity. These include \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/secondhand-smoke-may-be-a-substantial-contributor-to-lead-levels-found-in-children-and-adolescents-new-study-finds-212256\u0022\u003Esmoking\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/fixing-the-global-childhood-obesity-epidemic-begins-with-making-healthy-choices-the-easier-choices-and-that-requires-new-laws-and-policies-207975\u0022\u003Eoverweight\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/hispanics-live-longer-than-most-americans-but-will-the-us-obesity-epidemic-change-things-146006\u0022\u003Eobesity\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/black-mothers-trapped-in-unsafe-neighborhoods-signal-the-stressful-health-toll-of-gun-violence-in-the-u-s-203307\u0022\u003Estress\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/loneliness-is-making-us-physically-sick-but-social-prescribing-can-treat-it-podcast-199939\u0022\u003Esocial isolation\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/health-insurance-premiums-rose-nearly-3x-the-rate-of-worker-earnings-over-the-past-25-years-271450\u0022\u003Eaccess to health care\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/kids-neighborhoods-can-affect-their-developing-brains-a-new-study-finds-184035\u0022\u003Eliving in disadvantaged neighborhoods\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMoreover, social class alone cannot explain such health inequalities. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/singh.hsoc.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EMy own research\u003C\/a\u003E examines how inequalities related to social class, race and gender affect \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.ssmqr.2023.100234\u0022\u003Eaccess to autism services\u003C\/a\u003E, particularly among single Black mothers who rely on public insurance. This work helps explain \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1542\/peds.2019-3629\u0022\u003Edelays in autism diagnosis\u003C\/a\u003E among Black children, who often wait three years after initial parent concerns before they are formally diagnosed. White children with private insurance typically \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.18553\/jmcp.2023.29.4.378\u0022\u003Ewait from 9 to 22 months\u003C\/a\u003E depending on age of diagnosis. This is just one of \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/s40615-024-02280-x\u0022\u003Enumerous examples of inequalities\u003C\/a\u003E that are entrenched in and deepened by medical and educational systems.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMedical sociologists like me investigate how all of these \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.who.int\/publications\/i\/item\/WHO-IER-CSDH-08.1\u0022\u003Efactors interact to affect a person\u2019s health\u003C\/a\u003E. This \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.4324\/9781003569824\u0022\u003Esocial model of illness\u003C\/a\u003E sees sickness as shaped by social, cultural, political and economic factors. We examine both \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/0022146510383496\u0022\u003Eindividual experiences and societal influences\u003C\/a\u003E to help address the health issues affecting vulnerable populations through large-scale reforms.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy studying the way \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/0022146510383496\u0022\u003Esocial forces shape health inequalities\u003C\/a\u003E, medical sociology helps address how health and illness extend beyond the body and into every aspect of people\u2019s lives.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-center zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710832\/original\/file-20260105-62-evcc0s.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Protesters standing in front of a federal building, holding signs in the shape of graves reading \u0026apos;16 MILLION LIVES\u0026apos; and \u0026apos;R.I.P. DEATH BY A THOUSAND CUTS,\u0026apos; wearing shirts that read \u0026apos;MEDICAID SAVES LIVES\u0026apos;\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710832\/original\/file-20260105-62-evcc0s.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710832\/original\/file-20260105-62-evcc0s.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=400\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710832\/original\/file-20260105-62-evcc0s.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=400\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710832\/original\/file-20260105-62-evcc0s.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=400\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710832\/original\/file-20260105-62-evcc0s.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=503\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710832\/original\/file-20260105-62-evcc0s.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=503\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710832\/original\/file-20260105-62-evcc0s.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=503\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003EAccess to health insurance is a political issue that directly affects patients. Here, care workers gathered in June 2025 to protest Medicaid cuts.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Ca class=\u0022source\u0022 href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gettyimages.com\/detail\/news-photo\/care-workers-with-the-service-employees-international-union-news-photo\/2221731651\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution\u0022\u003ETasos Katopodis\/Getty Images for SEIU\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EOrigins of Medical Sociology in the US\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMedical sociology \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1002\/9781444314786.ch1\u0022\u003Eformally began in the U.S after World War II\u003C\/a\u003E, when the National Institutes of Health started investing in joint medical and sociological research projects. Hospitals began hiring sociologists to address questions like how to improve patient compliance, doctor-patient interactions and medical treatments.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHowever, the focus of this early work was on issues specific to medicine, such as quality improvement or barriers to medication adherence. The goal was to study problems that could be directly applied in medical settings rather than challenging medical authority or existing inequalities. During that period, sociologists viewed illness mostly as a \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/archive.org\/details\/socialsystem00pars\/page\/n3\/mode\/2up\u0022\u003Edeviation from normal functioning\u003C\/a\u003E leading to impairments that require treatment.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor example, the concept of the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/archive.org\/details\/socialsystem00pars\/page\/n3\/mode\/2up\u0022\u003Esick role\u003C\/a\u003E \u2013 developed by medical sociologist Talcott Parsons in the 1950s \u2013 saw illness as a form of deviance from social roles and expectations. Under this idea, patients were solely responsible for seeking out medical care in order to return to normal functioning in society.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the 1960s, sociologists began \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/archive.org\/details\/stigmanotesonman0000goff\/page\/n5\/mode\/2up\u0022\u003Ecritiquing medical diagnoses and institutions\u003C\/a\u003E. Researchers criticized the idea of the sick role because it assumed illnesses were temporary and did not account for chronic conditions or disability, which can last for long periods of time and do not necessarily allow people to deviate from their life obligations. The sick role assumed that all people have access to medical care, and it did not take into account how social characteristics like race, class, gender and age can \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/j.1467-9566.1991.tb00522.x\u0022\u003Einfluence a person\u2019s experience of illness\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-center zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710831\/original\/file-20260105-62-pk5w60.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Patient wearing surgical mask sitting in chair of exam room, talking to a doctor\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710831\/original\/file-20260105-62-pk5w60.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710831\/original\/file-20260105-62-pk5w60.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=338\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710831\/original\/file-20260105-62-pk5w60.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=338\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710831\/original\/file-20260105-62-pk5w60.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=338\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710831\/original\/file-20260105-62-pk5w60.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=424\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710831\/original\/file-20260105-62-pk5w60.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=424\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710831\/original\/file-20260105-62-pk5w60.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=424\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003EEarly models of illness in medical sociology discounted the experience of the patient.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Ca class=\u0022source\u0022 href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gettyimages.com\/detail\/news-photo\/man-talks-with-dr-stela-kostova-at-families-together-of-news-photo\/1470350026\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution\u0022\u003EPaul Bersebach\/MediaNews Group\/Orange County Register via Getty Images\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Cp\u003EParsons\u2019 sick role concept also emphasized the expertise of the physician rather than the patient\u2019s experience of illness. For example, sociologist Erving Goffman showed that the way \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.4324\/9781351327763\u0022\u003Ecare is structured in asylums shaped how patients are treated\u003C\/a\u003E. He also examined how the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/archive.org\/details\/stigmanotesonman0000goff\/page\/n5\/mode\/2up\u0022\u003Eexperience of stigma\u003C\/a\u003E is an interactive process that develops in response to social norms. This work influenced how researchers understood chronic illness and disability and laid the groundwork for \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/j.1467-9566.2009.01161.x\u0022\u003Elater debates on what counts as pathological or normal\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the 1970s, some researchers began to question the model of \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/j.1467-954X.1972.tb00220.x\u0022\u003Emedicine as an institution of social control\u003C\/a\u003E. They critiqued how medicine\u2019s jurisdiction expanded over many societal problems \u2013 such as old age and death \u2013 which were defined and treated as medical problems. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1146\/annurev.so.18.080192.001233\u0022\u003EResearchers were critical of the tendency to medicalize\u003C\/a\u003E and apply labels like \u201chealthy\u201d and \u201cill\u201d to increasing parts of human existence. This shift emphasized how a medical diagnosis can carry political weight and how medical authority can affect social inclusion or exclusion.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe critical perspective aligns with critiques from \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080\/09687599.2013.818773\u0022\u003Edisability studies\u003C\/a\u003E. Unlike medical sociology, which emerged through the medical model of disease, disability studies emerged from \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.bloomsbury.com\/us\/new-politics-of-disablement-9780333945674\/\u0022\u003Edisability rights activism and scholarship\u003C\/a\u003E. Rather than viewing disability as pathological, this field sees disability as a variation of the human condition rooted in social barriers and exclusionary environments. Instead of seeking cures, researchers focus on increasing accessibility, human rights and autonomy for disabled people.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA contemporary figure in this field was \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/disabilityvisibilityproject.com\/about\/\u0022\u003EAlice Wong\u003C\/a\u003E, a disability rights activist and medical sociologist who \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.washingtonpost.com\/obituaries\/2025\/11\/15\/disability-activist-alice-wong\/\u0022\u003Edied in November 2025\u003C\/a\u003E. Her work amplified disabled voices and helped shaped how the public understood disability justice and access to technology.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EStructural Forces Shape Health and Illness\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy focusing on social and structural influences on health, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/0022146510383496\u0022\u003Emedical sociology has contributed significantly\u003C\/a\u003E to programs addressing issues like segregation, discrimination, poverty, unemployment and underfunded schools.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor example, sociological research on racial health disparities invite \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/0022146510383838\u0022\u003Eneighborhood interventions\u003C\/a\u003E that can help improve overall quality of life by increasing the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/free-school-meals-for-all-may-reduce-childhood-obesity-while-easing-financial-and-logistical-burdens-for-families-and-schools-223270\u0022\u003Eavailability of affordable nutritious foods\u003C\/a\u003E \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/what-is-food-insecurity-152746\u0022\u003Ein underserved neighborhoods\u003C\/a\u003E or initiatives that \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/socioeconomic-status-explains-most-of-the-racial-and-ethnic-achievement-gaps-in-elementary-school-237931\u0022\u003Eprioritize equal access to education\u003C\/a\u003E. At the societal level, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/0022146510383496\u0022\u003Elarge-scale social policies\u003C\/a\u003E such as guaranteed minimum incomes or universal health care can dramatically reduce health inequalities.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-center zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710822\/original\/file-20260105-70-3hpn4u.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022People carrying boxes of food under a tent\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710822\/original\/file-20260105-70-3hpn4u.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710822\/original\/file-20260105-70-3hpn4u.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=360\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710822\/original\/file-20260105-70-3hpn4u.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=360\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710822\/original\/file-20260105-70-3hpn4u.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=360\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710822\/original\/file-20260105-70-3hpn4u.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=452\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710822\/original\/file-20260105-70-3hpn4u.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=452\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710822\/original\/file-20260105-70-3hpn4u.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=452\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003EAccess to nutritious food is critical to health.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Ca class=\u0022source\u0022 href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gettyimages.com\/detail\/news-photo\/escondido-ca-juliana-ramos-of-interfaith-community-services-news-photo\/2243706444\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution\u0022\u003EK.C. Alfred \/ The San Diego Union-Tribune via Getty Images\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMedical sociology has also expanded the understanding of \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/0022146510383496\u0022\u003Ehow health care policies affect health\u003C\/a\u003E, helping ensure that policy changes take into account the broader social context. For example, a key area of medical sociological research is the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/0022146510383504\u0022\u003Erising cost of and limited access to health care\u003C\/a\u003E. This body of work focuses on the complex social and organizational factors of delivering health services. It highlights the need for more state and federal regulatory control as well as investment in groups and communities that need care the most.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EModern medical sociology ultimately considers all societal issues to be health issues. Improving people\u2019s health and well-being requires improving education, employment, housing, transportation and other social, economic and political policies.\u003C!-- Below is The Conversation\u0027s page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --\u003E\u003Cimg style=\u0022border-color:!important;border-style:none;box-shadow:none !important;margin:0 !important;max-height:1px !important;max-width:1px !important;min-height:1px !important;min-width:1px !important;opacity:0 !important;outline:none !important;padding:0 !important;\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/counter.theconversation.com\/content\/270258\/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic\u0022 alt=\u0022The Conversation\u0022 width=\u00221\u0022 height=\u00221\u0022 referrerpolicy=\u0022no-referrer-when-downgrade\u0022\u003E\u003C!-- End of code. If you don\u0027t see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https:\/\/theconversation.com\/republishing-guidelines --\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis article is republished from \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThe Conversation\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E under a Creative Commons license. Read the \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/illness-is-more-than-just-biological-medical-sociology-shows-how-social-factors-get-under-the-skin-and-cause-disease-270258\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003Eoriginal article\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"full_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EBy studying the way social forces shape health inequalities, medical sociology helps address how health and illness extend beyond the body and into every aspect of people\u2019s lives.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"By studying the way social forces shape health inequalities, medical sociology helps address how health and illness extend beyond the body and into every aspect of people\u2019s lives."}],"uid":"27469","created_gmt":"2026-01-08 15:37:58","changed_gmt":"2026-04-06 18:16:40","author":"Kristen Bailey","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-01-08T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-01-08T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678961":{"id":"678961","type":"image","title":"Lack of access to safe and affordable housing is harmful to health. Robert Gauthier\/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images","body":"\u003Cp\u003ELack of access to safe and affordable housing is harmful to health. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gettyimages.com\/detail\/news-photo\/los-angeles-ca-tuesday-may-31-2022-dana-vanderford-news-photo\/1242004141\u0022\u003ERobert Gauthier\/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1768232345","gmt_created":"2026-01-12 15:39:05","changed":"1768232345","gmt_changed":"2026-01-12 15:39:05","alt":"Lack of access to safe and affordable housing is harmful to health. Robert Gauthier\/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images","file":{"fid":"263064","name":"file-20260105-70-1qzwti.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/12\/file-20260105-70-1qzwti.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/12\/file-20260105-70-1qzwti.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":239539,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/01\/12\/file-20260105-70-1qzwti.jpg?itok=J-V7i4lM"}}},"media_ids":["678961"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/theconversation.com\/illness-is-more-than-just-biological-medical-sociology-shows-how-social-factors-get-under-the-skin-and-cause-disease-270258","title":"Read This Article on The Conversation"}],"groups":[{"id":"66220","name":"Neuro"},{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"138","name":"Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"},{"id":"172970","name":"go-neuro"},{"id":"194974","name":"go-theconversation"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71891","name":"Health and Medicine"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Ch5\u003EAuthor:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/profiles\/jennifer-singh-2531279\u0022\u003EJennifer Singh\u003C\/a\u003E, Associate Professor of Sociology, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/institutions\/georgia-institute-of-technology-1310\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EGeorgia Institute of Technology\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch5\u003EMedia Contact:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShelley Wunder-Smith\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:shelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003Eshelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"689006":{"#nid":"689006","#data":{"type":"news","title":"The Conversation: Researchers develop biodegradable, plant\u2011based packaging from natural fibers \u2013 new research","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?user=YpxchNkAAAAJ\u0026amp;hl=en\u0022\u003EJie Wu\u003C\/a\u003E, an engineering graduate student, was studying a type of striking white beetle found in Southeast Asia and attempting to figure out how to mimic its brilliant color when an unexpected discovery upended the experiment.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJie and I had been hoping to identify naturally occurring whitening pigments that could be used in paper and paints. The beetle\u2019s white exoskeleton is made from a compound called chitin, which is a type of carbohydrate \u2013 one that is also commonly found in crab and lobster shells.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERead the full article in The Conversation here: https:\/\/bit.ly\/4uBteYr\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?user=YpxchNkAAAAJ\u0026amp;hl=en\u0022\u003EJie Wu\u003C\/a\u003E, an engineering graduate student, was studying a type of striking white beetle found in Southeast Asia and attempting to figure out how to mimic its brilliant color when an unexpected discovery upended the experiment.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJie and I had been hoping to identify naturally occurring whitening pigments that could be used in paper and paints. The beetle\u2019s white exoskeleton is made from a compound called chitin, which is a type of carbohydrate \u2013 one that is also commonly found in crab and lobster shells.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Jie Wu, an engineering graduate student, was studying a type of striking white beetle found in Southeast Asia and attempting to figure out how to mimic its brilliant color when an unexpected discovery upended the experiment."}],"uid":"36757","created_gmt":"2026-03-17 20:13:54","changed_gmt":"2026-04-06 17:36:08","author":"ychernet3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-03-17T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-03-17T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"groups":[{"id":"372221","name":"Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"194974","name":"go-theconversation"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39491","name":"Renewable Bioproducts"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto: ychernet3@gatech.edu\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYanet Chernet\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ECommunications Officer I\u003Cbr\u003EGeorgia Tech\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"689424":{"#nid":"689424","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech-led Research Team to Develop SHIELD Against Deadly Biological Threats","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe United States continues to face deadly infectious disease outbreaks, from emerging viruses to antibiotic-resistant bacteria, underscoring the nation\u2019s need for rapid, effective response systems. These threats extend beyond public health, disrupting daily life, straining health care systems, and impacting military readiness.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA team of researchers led by \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/me.gatech.edu\/faculty\/singh\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAnkur Singh\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, the Carl Ring Family Professor in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGeorge W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E and professor in\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003Ethe \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/bme.gatech.edu\/bme\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E at Georgia Tech and Emory\u0026nbsp;University, has been awarded up to $6 million from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) of the U.S. Department of Defense to accelerate the development of medical countermeasures (MCMs) against deadly biological threats that endanger public health, national security, and warfighters.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDTRA\u2019s mission is to provide solutions that enable the Department of Defense, the U.S. government, and international partners to deter strategic threats. A key priority is advancing new or improved MCMs that can be deployed before or after exposure to biological or chemical agents.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESingh\u2019s multi-year project, Systematic Human Immune Engineering for Lethal Disease (SHIELD) Countermeasures, aims to create a threat-agnostic platform that transforms how respiratory pathogens and toxins are studied. The platform is designed to speed up the discovery, development, and production of immune-based countermeasures.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESingh leads a collaborative team that includes Cornell University\u2019s Matthew DeLisa and Stanford University\u2019s Michael Jewett. Together, they will integrate immune-engineering technologies with advanced cell-free protein synthesis platforms to discover and manufacture protein-based MCMs. Cell-free protein synthesis is a laboratory technique that efficiently produces proteins without relying on living cells, which can be unpredictable and technically demanding when it comes to expressing complex or toxic proteins and scaling production quickly. The team expects the SHIELD Countermeasures platform to reduce the time and cost of MCM development by more than tenfold.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe foundational science and cutting-edge tools we develop will ignite future discoveries, ensuring a robust pipeline of advanced protein-based MCMs for chemical and biological defense,\u201d said Singh, who also directs the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/immunoengineering.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECenter for Immunoengineering at Georgia Tech\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E. \u201cThis will significantly enhance national security and equip our warfighters with next-generation biodefense capabilities.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETraditional animal models often fail to accurately replicate human immune responses, and standard tissue cultures lack the complexity required to study how immune cells interact with pathogens. In contrast, human immune organoids and immune-competent devices \u2014 built from human cells \u2014 are emerging as groundbreaking research tools. These systems recreate key immune features, such as lymph nodes and mucosal environments, within three-dimensional or microengineered platforms.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cMany organoid and engineering devices, often called organ-on-chip platforms, lack immune integration,\u201d Singh said. \u201cBecause immunity sits at the center of human health, these limitations have broad consequences. Immune-competent organ-on-chip platforms extend this concept by combining human cells with microfluidic engineering that simulates blood flow, tissue barriers, and chemical gradients.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESingh has previously published studies on a synthetic \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s41563-024-02037-1\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Ehuman immune chip\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E and an \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s41551-025-01491-9\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Eimmunocompetent lung on a chip\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, and has also teamed up with DeLisa previously to use synthetic immune organoids for \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/pubs.acs.org\/doi\/10.1021\/acscentsci.2c01473\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Eimmuno-profiling antibacterial MCMs\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIt\u2019s about being able to test far larger numbers of candidate protein-based MCMs in a single experiment\u2014and to do it much faster,\u201d DeLisa said. \u201cCell-free systems allow us to produce MCMs at unprecedented speed and scale, but traditional evaluation methods can\u2019t keep up with those numbers. By combining cell-free MCM production with immune organoid technology, we can assess the potency of dozens or even hundreds of candidates at a time and characterize the resulting immune responses within just a few days.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy integrating immune cells with tissues such as lung, gut, skin, or vascular systems, these devices allow scientists to observe immune responses in real time, including cell migration, inflammation, and interactions with pathogens or therapeutics. As biological threats evolve, the development and deployment of immune-competent platforms will be critical for rapid, effective countermeasures.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDTRA\u2019s investment in Singh\u2019s work highlights the urgent national priority of strengthening U.S. biodefense capabilities. The SHIELD Countermeasures platform and its cutting-edge technologies promise to transform the nation\u2019s response to biological threats and help safeguard communities from biological and chemical attacks.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003ELed by Ankur Singh, the multi-institutional SHIELD (Systematic Human Immune Engineering for Lethal Disease) project aims to transform how scientists study and respond to dangerous respiratory pathogens and toxins. The effort brings together researchers from Georgia Tech, Cornell, and Stanford to enable faster and more cost-effective development of protein-based medical countermeasures. The team expects the platform to reduce the time and cost of developing these defenses by more than tenfold, strengthening the nation\u2019s preparedness against biological threats.\u003C\/div\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"A Georgia Tech-led research team has received up to $6 million to develop SHIELD, a new platform designed to rapidly create immune-based countermeasures against a wide range of deadly biological threats."}],"uid":"36479","created_gmt":"2026-04-02 19:06:48","changed_gmt":"2026-04-02 19:17:40","author":"abowman41","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-04-02T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-04-02T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679841":{"id":"679841","type":"image","title":"DTRA-2.jpg","body":null,"created":"1775156814","gmt_created":"2026-04-02 19:06:54","changed":"1775156814","gmt_changed":"2026-04-02 19:06:54","alt":"Ankur Singh, a man in a gray suit jacket with a dark pink button-up shirt stands in front of a work bench in a lab.","file":{"fid":"264047","name":"DTRA-2.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/02\/DTRA-2.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/02\/DTRA-2.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1541575,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/04\/02\/DTRA-2.jpg?itok=UsJZzTJB"}}},"media_ids":["679841"],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"138","name":"Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics"},{"id":"145","name":"Engineering"}],"keywords":[{"id":"188776","name":"go-research"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"},{"id":"190256","name":"G.W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ETracie Troha | Communications Officer, Mechanical Engineering\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"689408":{"#nid":"689408","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Singh Family Gift Funds High-Risk Research at Center for Immunoengineering","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA philanthropic gift from the family of J.P. Singh is helping researchers at Georgia Tech push the boundaries of biomedical innovation.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Singh Family Research Awards were established as part of the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/immunoengineering.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ECenter for Immunoengineering\u003C\/a\u003E, creating a seed funding program supporting both faculty and students that is designed to accelerate early-stage ideas with the potential to transform medicine. The awards support interdisciplinary projects pursuing high-risk, high-reward research that could lead to new therapies for cancer, infectious diseases, and chronic illnesses.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe gift honors the legacy of J.P. Singh and reflects his family\u2019s commitment to advancing research that could lead to safer and more effective treatments for patients.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe gift is giving scientists the freedom to pursue bold ideas that might otherwise be too early or too unconventional for traditional funding,\u201d said Ankur Singh, Director of the Center for Immunoengineering and Professor in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/coe.gatech.edu\/schools\/biomedical-engineering\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EWallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E at Georgia Tech and Emory (BME). \u201cIt allows Georgia Tech scientists to explore new frontiers in immunoengineering, from cancer to autoimmunity, and to build the scientific foundations that could ultimately lead to the next generation of transformative therapies.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe inaugural awards support four innovative projects that span multiple areas of biomedical research, including two Faculty Research Awards and two Student Fellowship Awards.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUsing AI to Guide the Immune System\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne Singh Family Faculty Research Award, given to \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/17370\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EAndrew McShan\u003C\/a\u003E in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/chemistry.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ESchool of Chemistry and Biochemistry\u003C\/a\u003E, will help develop AI\u2011guided tools to design synthetic immune\u2011like molecules that can detect lipids on cell surfaces. Most current immunotherapies are designed to recognize protein fragments presented on cells, leaving a largely untapped class of disease-associated targets \u2014 lipids \u2014 beyond the reach of modern immune engineering. By enabling programmable molecules that can detect lipids on cell surfaces, the work aims to expand immune targeting beyond traditional protein targets and open new diagnostic and treatment strategies for diseases such as leukemia, tuberculosis, and inflammatory skin disorders.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAn AI-guided design framework for lipid-sensing immune receptors would create an entirely new class of programmable immune molecules capable of identifying disease signals that were previously inaccessible. Such tools could enable earlier disease detection, new immune-based therapeutics, and a broader ability to engineer immune systems to recognize complex biological threats, fundamentally expanding the scope of targets addressable by modern immunotherapy.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDeveloping the Next Generation of Cancer Treatments\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe second faculty award project, led by \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/3702\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EJohn Blazeck\u003C\/a\u003E in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.chbe.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ESchool of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E, focuses on engineering next-generation cancer immunotherapies using CAR-T cells, which are a patient\u2019s own immune cells that have been re\u2011engineered to recognize and attack specific cancer cells. The team is developing new receptors for CAR-T cells designed to improve safety while enabling immune cells to recognize multiple tumor targets simultaneously.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis approach addresses two major barriers that have limited the success of CAR-T therapies in solid tumors: the risk of attacking healthy tissues and the ability of tumors to evade treatment by changing or losing a single target antigen. If successful, the work could significantly expand the reach of CAR-T cell therapy, which has already transformed the treatment of certain blood cancers but has struggled to treat solid tumors such as breast, lung, and pancreatic cancer.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy enabling immune cells to distinguish tumors more precisely and attack cancers that display multiple markers, the new receptor designs could make CAR-T therapies both safer and more effective. The technology could represent a major step toward translating cellular immunotherapies to the far larger population of patients with solid tumors, potentially opening the door to powerful new treatments for some of the most resistant cancers.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EImaging Heart Risk Early with Ultrasound\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe gift also established two Singh Family Fellow Awards, supporting graduate students pursuing innovative research in immunoengineering.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne fellowship was awarded to Yann Ferry, a graduate student advised by \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/faculty\/arvanitis\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ECostas Arvanitis\u003C\/a\u003E in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EGeorgia W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E (ME) and BME. Ferry\u2019s project aims to advance ultrasound imaging technologies designed to visualize immune activity inside Atherosclerosis plaques, the fatty deposits that accumulate in arteries and can trigger heart attacks or strokes when they rupture.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy tracking immune cells that drive plaque inflammation and instability (called macrophages), the team aims to develop a noninvasive imaging approach that can measure the immune state of plaques in real time. If successful, the technology could transform how cardiovascular disease is diagnosed and monitored.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToday, physicians can detect plaque buildup but cannot easily determine whether a plaque is actively inflamed and likely to rupture. Imaging immune activity could allow doctors to identify high-risk plaques earlier, monitor how patients respond to therapy, and intervene before a heart attack or stroke occurs. Given that cardiovascular disease remains the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/nchs\/fastats\/leading-causes-of-death.htm\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Eleading cause of death\u003C\/a\u003E in the United States, such a tool could significantly improve prevention and treatment strategies.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWorking Toward a Cure for Type 1 Diabetes\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe second fellowship supports Alexander Kedzierski, a Ph.D. student in \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/3691\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EAndr\u00e9s Garc\u00eda\u003C\/a\u003E\u2019s\u0026nbsp; lab within ME. Kedzierski\u2019s research focuses on improving stem-cell-based treatments for Type 1 Diabetes. The project aims to design degradable biomaterials that present that help control the immune response, protecting transplanted insulin\u2011producing cells from being attacked by the body.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECurrent experimental therapies using insulin-producing cells that are derived from stem cells have shown promise but are limited by the need for lifelong medications that suppress the immune system to prevent rejection. By engineering biomaterials that locally regulate immune responses around transplanted cells, the researchers hope to enable long-term graft survival without suppressing the entire immune system.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf successful, the approach could bring regenerative therapies for Type 1 diabetes closer to a practical cure, allowing patients to restore natural insulin production while avoiding the risks associated with chronic immunosuppressive treatment.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELooking Ahead\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETogether, the projects illustrate the core mission of the Center for Immunoengineering and the Singh Family gift. By investing in bold, interdisciplinary research, the Singh family\u2019s gift is helping the Center for Immunoengineering accelerate innovations at the intersection of engineering, biology, and medicine.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the years ahead, the program is expected to expand a pipeline of high-impact research, from next-generation immunotherapies to immune-guided diagnostics and regenerative medicine. For the scientists involved, the goal is not only to advance discovery but to translate new insights about the immune system into real-world solutions for patients.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003EThe Center for Immunoengineering at Georgia Tech has named the inaugural recipients of the Singh Family Research Awards, recognizing four interdisciplinary projects led by Andrew McShan, John Blazeck, Yann Ferry, and Alexander Kedzierski. Together, the awardees exemplify high\u2011risk, high\u2011reward research aimed at translating fundamental immune engineering advances into safer, more effective treatments for patients.\u003C\/div\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The Center for Immunoengineering at Georgia Tech has awarded the inaugural Singh Family Research Awards to two faculty members and two students advancing innovative immunoengineering projects."}],"uid":"36479","created_gmt":"2026-04-02 18:09:35","changed_gmt":"2026-04-02 19:16:10","author":"abowman41","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-04-02T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-04-02T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679836":{"id":"679836","type":"image","title":"Singh-Award-Winners-2026.jpg","body":null,"created":"1775153384","gmt_created":"2026-04-02 18:09:44","changed":"1775153384","gmt_changed":"2026-04-02 18:09:44","alt":"Four headshots of Singh Family Award winners: Andrew McShan, John Blazeck, Yann Ferry, and Alexander Kedzierski","file":{"fid":"264042","name":"Singh-Award-Winners-2026.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/02\/Singh-Award-Winners-2026.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/04\/02\/Singh-Award-Winners-2026.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":160700,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/04\/02\/Singh-Award-Winners-2026.jpg?itok=6yTaA74y"}}},"media_ids":["679836"],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"138","name":"Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics"}],"keywords":[{"id":"188776","name":"go-research"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"101691","name":"College of Engineering; School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineerin"},{"id":"166928","name":"School of Chemistry and Biochemistry"},{"id":"94321","name":"College of Engineering; Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering"},{"id":"569","name":"bioengineering"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWritten by: Ankur Singh, Professor in the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEdited by: Ashlie Bowman, Communications Manager, Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"689302":{"#nid":"689302","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Ready for its Closeup: PIN-Supported Lamarr.AI Uses Technology to Make Buildings More Efficient and Occupants More Comfortable","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ESavannah is built on history and hospitality, which makes the collaboration between \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.lamarr.ai\/\u0022\u003ELamarr.AI\u003C\/a\u003E \u2014 a company named after a historic inventor and actress \u2014 and the city a match made for the big screen.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome of Savannah\u2019s many old buildings are expensive to heat and cool, especially in Georgia\u2019s humid summers. They develop leaks. They need routine maintenance. But how does a building owner know where to begin with renovations or repairs? Enter Lamarr.AI, one of the first companies supported by the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/pingeorgia.org\/\u0022\u003EPartnership for Innovation\u2019s\u003C\/a\u003E (PIN) new Community Investment program.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe Community Investment program is matching up faculty-led, faculty-spinoff startup companies that have technology that could be relevant to a community, a government, or to the civic space,\u201d said Katie O\u2019Connor, PIN\u2019s community investment manager. \u201cThe company\u2019s product is something that can help a community in a smart cities kind of way.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.lamarr.ai\/\u0022\u003ELamarr.AI\u003C\/a\u003E fits the bill to a T. Its technology and the company grew out of research at Georgia Tech. Lamarr.AI\u2019s technology uses drones, imaging, and artificial intelligence (AI) to assess a building\u2019s envelope and determine the best ways to make these structures more energy efficient.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe technology is like giving a building an MRI using drones, infrared and regular images, and our own AI,\u201d said Tarek Rakha, Lamarr.AI\u2019s co-founder and CEO. The drones, he explained, detect missing insulation, water intrusion, air escaping, and physical damage. AI and machine learning translate that information into 3-D models that map the defects.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/innovate.gatech.edu\/ready-for-its-closeup-pin-supported-lamarr-ai-uses-technology-to-make-buildings-more-efficient-and-occupants-more-comfortable\/\u0022\u003ERead more on EI2 Webpage\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003EThrough PIN\u2019s new Community Investment program, Georgia Tech\u2013based Lamarr.AI is partnering with the city of Savannah to use drone\u2011 and AI\u2011driven building assessments to improve energy efficiency in historic municipal facilities.\u003C\/div\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Through PIN\u2019s new Community Investment program, Georgia Tech\u2013based Lamarr.AI is partnering with the city of Savannah to use drone\u2011 and AI\u2011driven building assessments to improve energy efficiency in historic municipal facilities."}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2026-03-31 21:04:31","changed_gmt":"2026-03-31 21:06:53","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-03-26T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-03-26T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679807":{"id":"679807","type":"image","title":"top.tarek-rakha-GT-300x187.jpeg","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ELamarr.AI Co-founder and CEO Tarek Rakha\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1774991086","gmt_created":"2026-03-31 21:04:46","changed":"1774991086","gmt_changed":"2026-03-31 21:04:46","alt":"Lamarr.AI Co-founder and CEO Tarek Rakha","file":{"fid":"264011","name":"top.tarek-rakha-GT-300x187.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/31\/top.tarek-rakha-GT-300x187.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/31\/top.tarek-rakha-GT-300x187.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":10774,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/31\/top.tarek-rakha-GT-300x187.jpeg?itok=YzFGjLYH"}}},"media_ids":["679807"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/innovate.gatech.edu\/ready-for-its-closeup-pin-supported-lamarr-ai-uses-technology-to-make-buildings-more-efficient-and-occupants-more-comfortable\/","title":"Read Full Story on EI2 Website"}],"groups":[{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"131","name":"Economic Development and Policy"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"194611","name":"State Impact"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:karen.kirkpatrick@innovate.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EKaren Kirkpatrick\u003C\/a\u003E | EI2\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["karen.kirkpatrick@innovate.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"689285":{"#nid":"689285","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Temporal Stability of Consumer Preferences for Solar Energy","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA new study by EPIcenter affiliate \u003Cstrong\u003EJamal Mamkhezri\u003C\/strong\u003E examines how public preferences for solar\u2011energy policy have shifted over a six\u2011year period in New Mexico, offering one of the first long\u2011term repeated cross\u2011section analyses of willingness to pay (WTP) for renewable\u2011energy attributes. Using identical discrete choice experiment (DCE) tasks from surveys conducted in \u003Cstrong\u003E2017\u003C\/strong\u003E and \u003Cstrong\u003E2023\u003C\/strong\u003E, Professor Mamkhezri evaluates how households value increases in Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS), changes in rooftop versus utility\u2011scale solar shares, monthly credit\u2011banking rules, water usage in electricity generation, and smart\u2011meter information delivery options.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAcross more than \u003Cstrong\u003E1,100\u003C\/strong\u003E combined respondents, the study uncovers \u003Cstrong\u003Eselective temporal stability\u003C\/strong\u003E in energy preferences. Some attributes\u2014such as support for higher RPS targets, reductions in water use, and preferences for online smart\u2011meter information\u2014remain relatively stable over time. In contrast, others shift considerably: WTP for increasing the \u003Cstrong\u003Erooftop solar share\u003C\/strong\u003E declines by more than 40%, while WTP to \u003Cstrong\u003Eprotect monthly credit banking\u003C\/strong\u003E rises more than 200%, reflecting heightened awareness of net\u2011metering debates and rapid growth in rooftop solar adoption.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EImportantly, the study reveals that \u003Cstrong\u003Eenvironmental attitudes\u003C\/strong\u003E, measured through New Ecological Paradigm (NEP) scores, once strongly predicted preferences for rooftop solar and smart\u2011meter technologies in 2017, but these relationships fade or even reverse by 2023\u2014signaling a shift as these technologies transition from niche, identity\u2011driven goods to mainstream infrastructure. Meanwhile, environmental attitudes continue to robustly shape preferences for RPS increases and water\u2011use reductions in both survey waves.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/2026\/03\/11\/temporal-stability-of-consumer-preferences-for-solar-energy\/\u0022\u003ERead Full Story on the EPIcenter Webpage\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA new study by EPIcenter affiliate \u003Cstrong\u003EJamal Mamkhezri\u003C\/strong\u003E examines how public preferences for solar\u2011energy policy have shifted over a six\u2011year period in New Mexico, offering one of the first long\u2011term repeated cross\u2011section analyses of willingness to pay (WTP) for renewable\u2011energy attributes. Using identical discrete choice experiment (DCE) tasks from surveys conducted in \u003Cstrong\u003E2017\u003C\/strong\u003E and \u003Cstrong\u003E2023\u003C\/strong\u003E, Professor Mamkhezri evaluates how households value increases in Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS), changes in rooftop versus utility\u2011scale solar shares, monthly credit\u2011banking rules, water usage in electricity generation, and smart\u2011meter information delivery options.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"A new study by EPIcenter affiliate Jamal Mamkhezri examines how public preferences for solar\u2011energy policy have shifted over a six\u2011year period in New Mexico, offering one of the first long\u2011term repeated cross\u2011section analyses of willingness to pay (WTP) f"}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2026-03-31 19:15:40","changed_gmt":"2026-03-31 19:19:10","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-03-11T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-03-11T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679805":{"id":"679805","type":"image","title":"TemporalStabilityConsumerPreferenceSolar-AdobeStock_427357720-1024x683.jpeg","body":null,"created":"1774984544","gmt_created":"2026-03-31 19:15:44","changed":"1774984544","gmt_changed":"2026-03-31 19:15:44","alt":"A rural residence with solar panels installed outdoors, set among desert vegetation with mountains in the distance.","file":{"fid":"264009","name":"TemporalStabilityConsumerPreferenceSolar-AdobeStock_427357720-1024x683.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/31\/TemporalStabilityConsumerPreferenceSolar-AdobeStock_427357720-1024x683.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/31\/TemporalStabilityConsumerPreferenceSolar-AdobeStock_427357720-1024x683.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":175493,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/31\/TemporalStabilityConsumerPreferenceSolar-AdobeStock_427357720-1024x683.jpeg?itok=Zb5DMaNf"}}},"media_ids":["679805"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/2026\/03\/11\/temporal-stability-of-consumer-preferences-for-solar-energy\/","title":"Full Story on the EPIcenter Webpage"}],"groups":[{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"142","name":"City Planning, Transportation, and Urban Growth"},{"id":"131","name":"Economic Development and Policy"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"151","name":"Policy, Social Sciences, and Liberal Arts"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"39511","name":"Public Service, Leadership, and Policy"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:ggonzalez68@gatech.edu\u0022\u003EGil Gonzalez\u003C\/a\u003E, EPIcenter.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"689280":{"#nid":"689280","#data":{"type":"news","title":"The Potential of Data Center Energy","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA recent review by EPIcenter faculty affiliate \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/constance-crozier\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EConstance Crozier\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E (School of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology) and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/physics.gatech.edu\/user\/matthew-liska\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMatthew Liska\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E (School of Physics, Georgia Institute of Technology) explores the growing role of data centers in providing flexibility, the ability to shift or reduce electricity use in response to grid conditions, to the electric grid as renewable energy penetration and AI-driven computing demand surge. The authors highlight that data centers, particularly those supporting high-performance computing and AI workloads, are projected to consume nearly 10% of U.S. electricity by the end of the decade, presenting both challenges and opportunities for grid stability.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe paper examines various strategies for enhancing the flexibility of data center energy use. One approach is to use backup power systems, such as uninterruptible power supplies, to support the grid during emergencies. Another method involves rerouting computing jobs to different data centers in other locations to balance energy demand. The authors also discuss implementing smart scheduling techniques that shift workloads to off-peak hours, reducing strain on the grid. Additionally, they highlight adjusting processor speeds by lowering CPU (central processing unit) and GPU (graphics processing unit) clock rates to limit power consumption when needed. Finally, the paper suggests pre-cooling data center equipment to limit the energy required for cooling during peak demand periods. Notably, experimental evidence shows that underclocking GPUs can cut power consumption by 40% with only a 22% performance loss, suggesting technical feasibility for demand-response interventions.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDespite these technical options, the authors find that real-world cost considerations and reliability concerns limit widespread adoption. Data center operators generally do not change their behavior in response to electricity prices, as job revenue far outweighs energy costs under normal conditions. For example, a GPU rented at $2 per hour consumes only $0.04 worth of electricity at average prices, making curtailment unattractive except during extreme price spikes. Surveys indicate that operators are reluctant to compromise reliability or deploy backup systems for ancillary services. Consequently, price-based incentives alone are unlikely to drive meaningful flexibility.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/2026\/03\/24\/the-potential-of-data-center-energy\/\u0022\u003ERead more on the EPIcenter Webpage\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/2026\/03\/24\/the-potential-of-data-center-energy\/\u0022\u003EListen to a podcast on the research here\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA recent review by EPIcenter faculty affiliate \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/constance-crozier\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EConstance Crozier\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E (School of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology) and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/physics.gatech.edu\/user\/matthew-liska\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMatthew Liska\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E (School of Physics, Georgia Institute of Technology) explores the growing role of data centers in providing flexibility, the ability to shift or reduce electricity use in response to grid conditions, to the electric grid as renewable energy penetration and AI-driven computing demand surge. The authors highlight that data centers, particularly those supporting high-performance computing and AI workloads, are projected to consume nearly 10% of U.S. electricity by the end of the decade, presenting both challenges and opportunities for grid stability.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"A recent review by EPIcenter faculty affiliate highlights that data centers, particularly those supporting high-performance computing and AI workloads, are projected to consume nearly 10% of U.S. electricity by the end of the decade."}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2026-03-31 19:00:21","changed_gmt":"2026-03-31 19:08:59","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-03-24T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-03-24T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679804":{"id":"679804","type":"image","title":"PotentialofDatacenterEnergy-AdobeStock_248626760.jpeg","body":null,"created":"1774983673","gmt_created":"2026-03-31 19:01:13","changed":"1774983673","gmt_changed":"2026-03-31 19:01:13","alt":"Adobe Stock image showing solar panels, wind mills and energy storage units in a desert-like landscape with the sun setting in the background","file":{"fid":"264008","name":"PotentialofDatacenterEnergy-AdobeStock_248626760.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/31\/PotentialofDatacenterEnergy-AdobeStock_248626760.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/31\/PotentialofDatacenterEnergy-AdobeStock_248626760.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1531847,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/31\/PotentialofDatacenterEnergy-AdobeStock_248626760.jpeg?itok=VE5-39Gn"}}},"media_ids":["679804"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/2026\/03\/24\/the-potential-of-data-center-energy\/","title":"Full Story on the EPIcenter Webpage"}],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"131","name":"Economic Development and Policy"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"151","name":"Policy, Social Sciences, and Liberal Arts"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"194611","name":"State Impact"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"39511","name":"Public Service, Leadership, and Policy"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:ggonzalez68@gatech.edu\u0022\u003EGilbert Gonzalez\u003C\/a\u003E, EPIcenter\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"689267":{"#nid":"689267","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Institute for People and Technology Announces Five Faculty Promotions","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Institute for People and Technology (IPaT) at Georgia Tech is proud to announce the promotion of five research faculty whose work continues to advance the institute\u2019s mission of shaping people\u2011centered innovation across disciplines.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EKala Jordan\u003C\/strong\u003E has been promoted to \u003Cem\u003EResearch Scientist II\u003C\/em\u003E. With a background spanning biology, health informatics, and STEM education, Jordan brings a multidisciplinary approach to her work. She plays a key role in AI\u2011CARING, leading studies that support the development of personalized collaborative AI systems designed to improve quality of life for older adults.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENoah Posner\u003C\/strong\u003E has been promoted to \u003Cem\u003ESenior Research Scientist\u003C\/em\u003E. As manager of the Interactive Product Design Lab, Posner focuses on interactive experiences grounded in physical interaction. His research spans CAD\u2011based prototyping, rapid fabrication, and STEAM education, and he teaches courses in physical prototyping and industrial design.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPeter Presti\u003C\/strong\u003E has been promoted to \u003Cem\u003EPrincipal Research Scientist\u003C\/em\u003E. Over his 22\u2011year career at Georgia Tech, Presti has collaborated with major industry partners and federal agencies. His research spans sensor systems, biometrics, wearable computing, signal processing, embedded systems, and integrated hardware\u2011software prototyping.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERichard Starr\u003C\/strong\u003E has been promoted to \u003Cem\u003ESenior Research Scientist\u003C\/em\u003E. Starr oversees the IPaT Secure Data Enclave, developing and managing the institute\u2019s secure infrastructure for healthcare data. His work ensures campus\u2011wide compliance with HIPAA, IRB requirements, and partnership agreements.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAndrew Zhao\u003C\/strong\u003E has been promoted to \u003Cem\u003EResearch Scientist II\u003C\/em\u003E. Zhao, a Georgia Tech alumnus with bachelor\u2019s and master\u2019s degrees in Computer Science, specializes in social computing. His work examines how social media facilitates information flow and connection, particularly around mental health and elections. He supports the CANDOR Portal and AI\u2011CARING projects, contributing full\u2011stack development, data pipelines, LLM fine\u2011tuning, and infrastructure management.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThese promotions are wonderful and well deserved. Hearty congratulations to Andrew, Kala, Richard, Noah, and Peter!\u201d said Michael Best, executive director of IPaT.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThese promotions are a testament to the outstanding capabilities and contributions of IPaT\u2019s research faculty community,\u201d added Maribeth Gandy Coleman, director of research for IPaT.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Institute for People and Technology (IPaT) at Georgia Tech is proud to announce the promotion of five research faculty whose work continues to advance the institute\u2019s mission of shaping people\u2011centered innovation across disciplines.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The Institute for People and Technology (IPaT) at Georgia Tech is proud to announce the promotion of five research faculty whose work continues to advance the institute\u2019s mission of shaping people centered innovation across disciplines."}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2026-03-31 17:35:58","changed_gmt":"2026-03-31 17:36:30","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-03-31T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-03-31T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679802":{"id":"679802","type":"image","title":"Five IPaT research faculty","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPictured: Kala Jordan, Noah Posner, Peter Presti, Richard Starr, and Andrew Zhao.\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1774978414","gmt_created":"2026-03-31 17:33:34","changed":"1774978496","gmt_changed":"2026-03-31 17:34:56","alt":"Pictured: Kala Jordan, Noah Posner, Peter Presti, Richard Starr, and Andrew Zhao.","file":{"fid":"264006","name":"5-people-v1.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/31\/5-people-v1.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/31\/5-people-v1.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":284111,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/31\/5-people-v1.jpg?itok=4nz7w0ba"}}},"media_ids":["679802"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWalter Rich\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["walter.rich@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"689249":{"#nid":"689249","#data":{"type":"news","title":"EPIcenter Launches Georgia Data Center Ordinance Hub ","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Energy Policy and Innovation Center (\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EEPIcenter\u003C\/a\u003E) at Georgia Tech has launched an interactive tool to help communities navigate the dynamic land-use and policy landscape surrounding data center development: the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/data-center\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia Data Center Ordinance Hub\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs new data centers continue to be built and proposed in Georgia, counties and municipalities across the state are considering how to guide this growth. EPIcenter\u2019s data center dashboard provides policymakers, planners, researchers, and community stakeholders with a centralized resource to better understand how data center regulations are being developed and applied across Georgia and the U.S.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cOur Data Center Hub provides Georgia communities with a one-stop shop to understand how their neighbors are managing land-use regulations for data centers,\u201d said\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/laura-taylor\u0022\u003ELaura Taylor\u003C\/a\u003E, director of EPIcenter. \u201cIt brings together clear, accessible information to help jurisdictions\u0026nbsp;plan when data center growth occurs in their area.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe dashboard is organized around five thematic areas commonly addressed in data center land-use regulations: \u003Cstrong\u003ESite Planning and Building Design, Infrastructure and Utilities, Environmental and Community Protections, Public Safety and Security, and Lifecycle Governance\u003C\/strong\u003E. Within each theme, users can explore specific regulatory topics and access the relevant ordinances enacted by Georgia communities.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo build the dashboard, EPIcenter researchers conducted a comprehensive review of municipal codes across the state.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe reviewed municipal codes for about 180 cities and counties across Georgia and identified ordinances that specifically address data center development,\u201d said\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/people-yang-you\/\u0022\u003EYang You\u003C\/a\u003E, EPIcenter\u2019s research associate who developed the project. \u201cIn total, we found 19 data center-specific topics that ordinances tend to cover. We analyzed ordinances across jurisdictions and organized their ordinance provisions into topics such as building placement, setbacks, infrastructure, and environmental considerations to make it easier to compare how different jurisdictions regulate data centers.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou added that the dashboard also incorporates examples from outside of Georgia. By gathering ordinances from other states and pairing them with Georgia-specific examples, EPIcenter aims to provide a clear framework to help communities efficiently address data center land-use regulation.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Georgia Data Center Ordinance Hub is available through the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/initiatives-in-the-southeast\/\u0022\u003EEnergy Policy and Innovation Center website\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Energy Policy and Innovation Center (\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EEPIcenter\u003C\/a\u003E) at Georgia Tech has launched an interactive tool to help communities navigate the dynamic land-use and policy landscape surrounding data center development: the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/data-center\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia Data Center Ordinance Hub\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs new data centers continue to be built and proposed in Georgia, counties and municipalities across the state are considering how to guide this growth. EPIcenter\u2019s data center dashboard provides policymakers, planners, researchers, and community stakeholders with a centralized resource to better understand how data center regulations are being developed and applied across Georgia and the U.S.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cOur Data Center Hub provides Georgia communities with a one-stop shop to understand how their neighbors are managing land-use regulations for data centers,\u201d said\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/laura-taylor\u0022\u003ELaura Taylor\u003C\/a\u003E, director of EPIcenter. \u201cIt brings together clear, accessible information to help jurisdictions\u0026nbsp;plan when data center growth occurs in their area.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The Energy Policy and Innovation Center (EPIcenter) at Georgia Tech has launched an interactive tool to help communities navigate the dynamic land-use and policy landscape surrounding data center development: the Georgia Data Center Ordinance Hub."}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2026-03-31 02:42:32","changed_gmt":"2026-03-31 13:54:10","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-03-30T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-03-30T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679785":{"id":"679785","type":"image","title":"Datacenter-Cooling-TopView.jpeg","body":null,"created":"1774924962","gmt_created":"2026-03-31 02:42:42","changed":"1774924962","gmt_changed":"2026-03-31 02:42:42","alt":"Aerial view of a datacenter with air conditioner compressor fans on the roof of the building","file":{"fid":"263987","name":"Datacenter-Cooling-TopView.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/30\/Datacenter-Cooling-TopView.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/30\/Datacenter-Cooling-TopView.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":936768,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/30\/Datacenter-Cooling-TopView.jpeg?itok=xBJaUq7j"}},"679793":{"id":"679793","type":"image","title":"DataCenterDashboard-HeaderImage-Final.jpg","body":null,"created":"1774965063","gmt_created":"2026-03-31 13:51:03","changed":"1774965063","gmt_changed":"2026-03-31 13:51:03","alt":"US Map showing States Represented in the Ordinance Hub and State of Georgia with Data Centers and Local Ordinances highlighted","file":{"fid":"263995","name":"DataCenterDashboard-HeaderImage-Final.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/31\/DataCenterDashboard-HeaderImage-Final.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/31\/DataCenterDashboard-HeaderImage-Final.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":400200,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/31\/DataCenterDashboard-HeaderImage-Final.jpg?itok=q9cFpM_p"}},"679794":{"id":"679794","type":"image","title":"DataCenterDashboard-HeaderImage-Final2.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThematic Areas covered by EPIcenter\u0027s Datacenter Ordinance Hub\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1774965063","gmt_created":"2026-03-31 13:51:03","changed":"1774965063","gmt_changed":"2026-03-31 13:51:03","alt":"Thematic Areas covered by EPIcenter\u0027s Datacenter Ordinance Hub","file":{"fid":"263996","name":"DataCenterDashboard-HeaderImage-Final2.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/31\/DataCenterDashboard-HeaderImage-Final2.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/31\/DataCenterDashboard-HeaderImage-Final2.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":397163,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/31\/DataCenterDashboard-HeaderImage-Final2.jpg?itok=iCDuFZ6-"}}},"media_ids":["679785","679793","679794"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/data-center\/","title":"EPIcenter Georgia Datacenter Ordinance Hub"}],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"42911","name":"Education"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"151","name":"Policy, Social Sciences, and Liberal Arts"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"194611","name":"State Impact"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"39511","name":"Public Service, Leadership, and Policy"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EPriya Devarajan\u003C\/a\u003E || SEI Communications Program Manager\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"689193":{"#nid":"689193","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Atlanta Area Students Partner With Community Organizations for Research Projects","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Atlanta Community-Engaged Research Student Network launched this semester. The program is co-led by Nicole Kennard, assistant director for Community-Engaged Research with the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sustainablesystems.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EBrook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems (BBISS)\u003C\/a\u003E, along with Associate Professor Richard Milligan and Associate Professor Sarah Ledford from Georgia State University, Associate Professor Emily Burchfield and Associate Teaching Professor Carolyn Keogh from Emory University, and Iesha Baldwin from Spelman College. The program also partners with several community-based organizations to co-develop strategic direction and provide training. They are\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scienceforgeorgia.org\/\u0022\u003EScience for Georgia\u003C\/a\u003E,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.historicwestsidegardens.org\/\u0022\u003EHistoric Westside Gardens\u003C\/a\u003E,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/hbcugreenfund.org\/\u0022\u003EHBCU Green Fund\u003C\/a\u003E,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.southriverga.org\/\u0022\u003ESouth River Watershed Alliance\u003C\/a\u003E, and\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.foodwellalliance.org\/\u0022\u003EFood Well Alliance\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe primary aim of the Atlanta Student Community-Engaged Research (CER) Network is to use a peer learning approach to train graduate students with the skills to co-lead community-engaged and locally focused research, while at the same time building relationships with local community organizations. This approach will help address local sustainability and societal challenges, lay the foundation for community-engaged research programs, and enable young researchers interested in this work to thrive in the Atlanta area. Initial funding for the pilot program was provided by the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/atlantaglobalstudies.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EAtlanta Global Studies Center\u003C\/a\u003E and the Georgia Tech Provost\u0027s Excellence in Graduate Studies fund.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe program received a total of 41 applications from graduate students from Georgia Tech, Georgia State University, and Emory University. Thirty-five master\u2019s and Ph.D. students were accepted into the cohort, spanning a wide range of disciplines, from the humanities, sciences, design,\u0026nbsp; public health, engineering, and computing. The program has additionally engaged eight senior-level undergraduates from Spelman College to learn about graduate school tracks with community-engaged research opportunities.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis program provides a unique opportunity to learn engagement and leadership skills not typically taught in graduate programs. Students are attending one training a month over the course of the Spring 2026 semester. Here, they learn about the diversity of sustainability-focused, community-based organizations in the area, develop skills to engage meaningfully with community partners in research projects, and improve the ways they communicate to the public about research.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Georgia Tech Provost\u0027s Excellence in Graduate Studies fund will provide a $2,500 stipend to five Georgia Tech students who will work on a research project with a community partner organization. These projects will take place over the spring and summer semesters this year, providing opportunities for graduate students to apply their newly acquired community-engagement skills to on-the-ground research, while also opening a new pathway for Georgia Tech\u2019s engagement with community partners.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFellows and projects include:\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIrene Jacob, M.S., city and regional planning, will work with the\u0026nbsp;Food Well Alliance to update the implementation strategy for their 10-year community garden survey.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEthan Zhao, M.S., human-computer interaction, will work with\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.historicwestsidegardens.org\/\u0022\u003EHistoric Westside Gardens\u003C\/a\u003E to integrate new technologies into their community garden spaces and assess the benefits to the communities they serve.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EVirginia Cason, M.S., sustainable energy and environmental management, will work with\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scienceforgeorgia.org\/\u0022\u003EScience for Georgia\u003C\/a\u003E to translate data gathering and analysis into community-centered narratives.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESharon Rachel, Ph.D., history and sociology of technology and science, will work with the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/hbcugreenfund.org\/\u0022\u003EHBCU Green Fund\u003C\/a\u003E to examine the environmental and community impacts of data center projects in Atlanta.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EElla Neumann, Ph.D., interactive computing, will work with the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.southriverga.org\/\u0022\u003ESouth River Watershed Alliance\u003C\/a\u003E to document and communicate the history and impact of the City of Atlanta\u0027s combined sewer consent decree, and assess if the intended results of the decree have been met.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EApplicants expressed their passion for community-engaged research projects and working directly with local community members and organizations:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cLived experience is just as valuable as academic expertise, and meaningful change only occurs when both work together. I think that this takes approaching problems with a lot of humility, care, and a genuine desire to listen to communities and their needs.\u201d -Virginia Cason,\u0026nbsp;M.S.,\u0026nbsp;sustainable energy and environmental management\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cI want to do research that stems from a theoretical question, but is feasible in reality and benefits the community. One of the most efficient ways to achieve this goal is through doing research WITH the community.\u201d -Keke Li, M.S., analytics\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cCommunity-engaged research is not only a methodology, but a\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003Ecommitment to partnership, humility, and shared power.\u201d -Grace Fraser, M.S., city and regional planning\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cTo me, community-engaged research means working with people, not just for them. CER is not only a method but also a mindset. True impact comes when research and community experience grow together.\u201d -Bingjie Lu, Ph.D., civil engineering\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe community partners involved in the program are equally enthusiastic about community-engaged research. As Fred Conrad of\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.foodwellalliance.org\/\u0022\u003EFood Well Alliance\u003C\/a\u003E put it, \u201cFood Well has been intentional about engaging our constituents since we began, and this is not only a continuation of that effort, but a significant refinement of how we accomplish that. I think all of us have deepened our understanding of the CER process since we began this journey.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThis program provides a unique opportunity to learn engagement and leadership skills not typically taught in graduate programs. Students are attending one training a month over the course of the Spring 2026 semester.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The Atlanta Community-Engaged Research Student Network launched this semester to train graduate students to co-lead community-engaged and locally focused research along with community-based organizations."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2026-03-25 19:50:44","changed_gmt":"2026-03-25 20:23:43","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-03-25T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-03-25T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679739":{"id":"679739","type":"image","title":"ATL_CER_Student_Network_Group_Pic","body":null,"created":"1774468259","gmt_created":"2026-03-25 19:50:59","changed":"1774470176","gmt_changed":"2026-03-25 20:22:56","alt":"Large group of people standing and seated in a bright industrial-style indoor space, gathered on and around a metal staircase and long tables. The setting includes exposed beams, railings, overhead lighting, and tables with notebooks, cups, and coats visible in the foreground.","file":{"fid":"263934","name":"ATL_CER_Student_Network_Group_Pic.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/25\/ATL_CER_Student_Network_Group_Pic.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/25\/ATL_CER_Student_Network_Group_Pic.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1459248,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/25\/ATL_CER_Student_Network_Group_Pic.jpg?itok=XlFtG7z1"}}},"media_ids":["679739"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[{"id":"142","name":"City Planning, Transportation, and Urban Growth"},{"id":"42901","name":"Community"},{"id":"131","name":"Economic Development and Policy"},{"id":"42911","name":"Education"},{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"134","name":"Student and Faculty"},{"id":"8862","name":"Student Research"},{"id":"194836","name":"Sustainability"},{"id":"194612","name":"Workforce Development"}],"keywords":[{"id":"194972","name":"community engaged research"},{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Research Communications Program Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"689179":{"#nid":"689179","#data":{"type":"news","title":"The Science of Saving Memories","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAlmost everyone knows someone touched by Alzheimer\u0027s \u2014 a parent who no longer recognizes familiar faces, a grandparent whose stories have gone silent. It\u0027s a disease that doesn\u0027t just affect the person who has it; it takes something from everyone around them. At Georgia Tech, researchers in the Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering are working to change that \u2014 not with surgery or medication, but through light and sound.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/news.gatech.edu\/features\/2026\/03\/science-saving-memories?utm_source=newsletter\u0026amp;utm_medium=email\u0026amp;utm_content=The%20Science%20of%20Saving%20Memories\u0026amp;utm_campaign=Daily%20Digest%20-%20March%2025%2C%202026\u0022\u003ERead the full story \u0026gt;\u0026gt;\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAt Georgia Tech, we turn deep science into therapies that could give people back what matters most.\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"At Georgia Tech, we turn deep science into therapies that could give people back what matters most."}],"uid":"35575","created_gmt":"2026-03-25 14:24:03","changed_gmt":"2026-03-25 15:04:49","author":"adavidson38","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-03-25T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-03-25T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679735":{"id":"679735","type":"image","title":"f3b01b6c1ecbc90bfd1de201.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAnnabelle Singer, lead researcher on the project, standing in her lab smiling next to equipment.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1774448660","gmt_created":"2026-03-25 14:24:20","changed":"1774448660","gmt_changed":"2026-03-25 14:24:20","alt":"Annabelle Singer, lead researcher on the project, standing in her lab smiling next to equipment.","file":{"fid":"263930","name":"f3b01b6c1ecbc90bfd1de201.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/25\/f3b01b6c1ecbc90bfd1de201.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/25\/f3b01b6c1ecbc90bfd1de201.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":127052,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/25\/f3b01b6c1ecbc90bfd1de201.jpg?itok=1gHDUJDp"}}},"media_ids":["679735"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/news.gatech.edu\/features\/2026\/03\/science-saving-memories?utm_source=newsletter\u0026utm_medium=email\u0026utm_content=The%20Science%20of%20Saving%20Memories\u0026utm_campaign=Daily%20Digest%20-%20March%2025%2C%202026","title":"Read the Full Story"}],"groups":[{"id":"66220","name":"Neuro"},{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"172970","name":"go-neuro"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"193656","name":"Neuro Next Initiative"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"689128":{"#nid":"689128","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Crystal Hanson: A Pillar of Service, Connection, and Excellence at Georgia Tech","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ECrystal Hanson is a quiet but powerful force within the Georgia Institute of Technology \u2014 an individual whose influence has shaped programs, strengthened communities, and supported leaders across campus.\u0026nbsp;Her career reflects the profound impact a dedicated staff member can have on an institution, not only through operational excellence but through relationships, mentorship, and an unwavering commitment to service.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA Career Built on Service and Adaptability\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHanson\u2019s journey in higher education began immediately after high school when she joined Purdue University and discovered her passion for supporting students, faculty, and academic communities. She carried that passion across multiple institutions before landing at Tech, building a career grounded in adaptability, resilience, and people-centered service.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHer Georgia Tech chapter began in the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE), where she supported the Water Resources Engineering group. There, she became a trusted resource for students and faculty alike \u2014 a steady presence who celebrated their successes, listened during challenges, and helped build a sense of community.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHanson credits Lisa Tuttle in CEE with helping her navigate the Georgia Tech landscape. With Tuttle\u2019s help, she also discovered a talent for event planning and administrative leadership, eventually serving as administration manager and supporting the CEE chair with meetings, alumni engagement, and major departmental initiatives. One of her most memorable experiences was coordinating a trip to NATO headquarters in Belgium, an opportunity that deepened her appreciation for global collaboration and institutional history.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cCrystal was an extraordinary contributor throughout her time in CEE, first in the Water Resources Engineering group and later as the trusted manager of the entire administrative support team,\u201d said Donald Webster, Karen and John Huff School Chair in CEE. \u201cIn every role, she brought dedication, professionalism, and genuine care for others. Crystal consistently went above and beyond to support the people of CEE \u2014 not only through professional challenges, but also during moments of personal crisis \u2014 always with compassion, steadiness, and grace. Her presence made our community stronger, more resilient, and more humane.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA Trusted Partner in Research Leadership\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHanson later transitioned to the Executive Vice President for Research (EVPR) office, where she worked under leaders including Stephen Cross, Christopher Jones, Giselle Bennett, Raheem Beyah, and Julia Kubanek. Her time in this environment was formative. She absorbed the complexities of research administration, budgeting, and strategic planning, all while contributing to a culture where staff felt valued and included.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWhen I joined the EVPR office, and it had only three or four people, it seemed everyone was doing two or three jobs,\u201d said Christopher Jones, who joined the office in 2013 and is now the John F. Brock III School Chair in the School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. \u201cCrystal was an immediate fit, bringing with her organizational and management skills, a sense of humor, and an appreciation of our mission.\u0026nbsp; She is someone whom I always look forward to seeing, both then and now.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter Beyah left the EVPR office to become the dean and Southern Company Chair in the College of Engineering, Kubanek became the new vice president for Interdisciplinary Research (VPIR). Together, Kubanek and Hanson built and expanded the VPIR team, helping to shape its operations and identity.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAmong her many contributions, Hanson initiated the Interdisciplinary Research Spotlight Awards, recognizing staff and research faculty who go above and beyond in the Interdisciplinary Research Institutes (IRIs). She also shepherded the Research Faculty Teaching Fellows program, ensuring that research faculty across Georgia Tech and the Georgia Tech Research Institute had opportunities to develop teaching skills in partnership with the Center for Teaching and Learning.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe Connector at the Heart of the VPIR Office\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECrystal describes herself as someone who prefers to work behind the scenes: cleaning up after events, coordinating logistics, and taking on nearly any task that needs to be done.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cCrystal is the ultimate behind-the-scenes master organizer and people connector,\u201d said Kubanek. \u201cShe develops individual relationships that enable her to organize, in short order, a meeting of numerous campus leaders whose calendars should be impossible to align. She comes bearing snacks and a smile and is the heart of our operation.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHanson\u2019s deep institutional knowledge and extensive network positioned her to navigate Georgia Tech\u2019s complex landscape. She serves as a bridge between the VPIR office, the IRIs, GTRI, and campus partners, ensuring that communication flows smoothly and people feel supported, informed, and connected.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cHer deep institutional knowledge and strong networks across campus meant she almost always knew the right person to connect with or the best way to move something forward,\u201d said Punya Mardhanan, a former colleague in VPIR and now assistant director of business operations for the Space Research Institute. \u201cCrystal works incredibly efficiently and often completes things before anyone asks. She never seeks recognition for the many ways she supports her team.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA Colleague, Advisor, and Steady Source of Wisdom\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHanson\u2019s colleagues consistently describe her as someone who not only gets things done but also makes everyone around her better.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cShe\u2019s like a mother hen to the VPIR team,\u201d said Rob Kadel, executive director of research program administration. \u201cI can always go to Crystal and say, \u2018Who should I talk to about this?\u2019 and she will know exactly who to talk to. She is never afraid to speak her mind. She\u2019s a trusted advisor.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHer leadership has also extended beyond formal responsibilities. She played a key role in designing the VPIR workspace during renovations, coordinated team retreats and bonding activities, and infused every gathering with energy and warmth.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cShe cares so much about the Georgia Tech community,\u201d said Colly Mitchell, director of events and engagement for the Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience. \u201cCrystal is incredibly responsive, helpful, and friendly. She brings a big burst of energy to every gathering.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWords that immediately come to mind when I think of Crystal are collaborative, dependable, responsive, and a true breadth of knowledge,\u201d adds Cynthia Moore, director of operations for the Institute for People and Technology, who worked alongside Hanson for nearly a decade. \u201cCrystal will truly be missed, along with her knowledge of all things Georgia Tech and research.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA Legacy of Generosity and Excellence\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter nearly 14 years at Georgia Tech, Hanson will retire on April 1. She will be remembered as someone who connected people, solved problems, and always went above and beyond.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAccording to Raheem Beyah, provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs, \u201cCrystal was simply exceptional. She was a creative thought partner who provided outstanding support and strategic advice, and she became a dear friend. I am a better leader after working with Crystal, and Georgia Tech is a better place because of her. I can\u2019t think of many people who deserve a wonderful retirement more than she does.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHanson looks forward to spending more time with her family, including her two daughters and two granddaughters, whose busy schedules she is eager to be part of. She and her husband have plans for travel, concerts \u2014 including those of her son-in-law\u2019s band, Grouplove \u2014 and perhaps even a cruise around the world.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech extends its deepest gratitude to Crystal Hanson for her years of exceptional service, leadership, and dedication. Her impact will continue to resonate across the VPIR office, the IRIs, and the broader research community.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe wish her joy, adventure, and well-deserved rest in the next chapter of her life.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ECrystal Hanson is a quiet but powerful force within the Georgia Institute of Technology \u2014 an individual whose influence has shaped programs, strengthened communities, and supported leaders across campus.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Crystal Hanson is a quiet but powerful force within the Georgia Institute of Technology \u2014 an individual whose influence has shaped programs, strengthened communities, and supported leaders across campus. "}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2026-03-23 13:49:21","changed_gmt":"2026-03-23 13:50:47","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-03-23T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-03-23T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679708":{"id":"679708","type":"image","title":"Crystal Hanson","body":null,"created":"1774273214","gmt_created":"2026-03-23 13:40:14","changed":"1774273266","gmt_changed":"2026-03-23 13:41:06","alt":"Crystal Hanson with Lisa Tuttle","file":{"fid":"263899","name":"Crystal_at_GT_with_Lisa-edited-v4-WR-withText-cropped.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/23\/Crystal_at_GT_with_Lisa-edited-v4-WR-withText-cropped.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/23\/Crystal_at_GT_with_Lisa-edited-v4-WR-withText-cropped.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":2054104,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/23\/Crystal_at_GT_with_Lisa-edited-v4-WR-withText-cropped.jpg?itok=v_8NMVPV"}}},"media_ids":["679708"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"}],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWalter Rich\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EResearch Communications\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["walter.rich@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688801":{"#nid":"688801","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Energy Day: Meeting AI\u2019s Growing Energy Demands","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/energyday\u0022\u003EEnergy Day\u003C\/a\u003E returns this year on March 19 with an expanded focus and a new collaborative momentum. Cohosted by the Georgia Tech\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/matter-systems.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EInstitute for Matter and\u0026nbsp;Systems\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;(IMS) and the \u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.research.gatech.edu\/energy\u0022\u003EStrategic Energy Institute\u003C\/a\u003E,\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;(SEI) \u003C\/strong\u003Ewith plenary session support from the\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EEnergy Policy and Innovation Center\u003C\/a\u003E, Energy Day 2026 convenes leaders from academia, industry, government, and students to address the challenges associated with meeting the rapidly growing electricity demand driven by artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESet in the heart of Tech Square on the Georgia Tech campus, this year\u2019s event explores how energy systems, materials, technologies, supply chains, and policy must evolve in response to AI\u2019s accelerating impact. As digital infrastructure expands and computation intensifies, the need for reliable, resilient, and sustainable power has never been more urgent.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cEnergy Day reflects Georgia Tech\u2019s strength in connecting world-class research in materials and components with the infrastructure and partnerships needed to translate discovery into scalable energy technologies that serve industry, society, and the future economy,\u201d said \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/matter-systems.gatech.edu\/people\/eric-vogel\u0022\u003EEric Vogel\u003C\/a\u003E, executive director of the IMS and the Hightower Professor in Materials Science and Engineering.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEnergy Day 2026 also marks an important milestone with the introduction of its first group of corporate sponsors:\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gevernova.com\/\u0022\u003EGE Vernova\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E,\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.southerncompany.com\/\u0022\u003ESouthern Company\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E,\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.georgiapower.com\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia Power\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E,\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/corporate.exxonmobil.com\/\u0022\u003EExxonMobil\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E,\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/southwirespark.com\/\u0022\u003ESouthwire Spark\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E, \u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/gems-setra\/\u0022\u003EGems Setra\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E, \u003C\/strong\u003Eand\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.tek.com\/en\u0022\u003ETektronix\u003C\/a\u003E. Their support reflects a shared commitment to advancing energy solutions.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cTektronix is excited to be part of Energy Day because advancing the future of energy starts with precise measurement and trusted insights,\u201d said Christopher Bohn, president of Tektronix. \u201cFrom power electronics and high voltage systems to grid scale renewables and AI driven control technologies, the breakthroughs discussed here directly align with the innovations we support through our products and solutions. Collaborating with Georgia Tech allows us to engage early with emerging research and the next generation of engineers\u2014critical collaborators in building a cleaner, smarter, and more resilient energy ecosystem.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe keynote address will be delivered by\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/vanessazchan\/\u0022\u003EVanessa Z. Chan\u003C\/a\u003E, a nationally recognized leader at the intersection of\u0026nbsp;innovation, commercialization, and emerging technologies. Chan will provide insights on accelerating technological discovery, emphasizing how AI is transforming energy and materials design. She will discuss how commercialization strategies must rapidly evolve across multidisciplinary energy domains from grid modernization to advanced batteries and clean manufacturing.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBuilding on the themes introduced in the keynote, the program transitions into a fireside chat with Georgia Tech EVPR\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/leadership\u0022\u003ETim Lieuwen\u003C\/a\u003E featuring\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/kulkarniam\/\u0022\u003EAmit Kulkarni\u003C\/a\u003E and\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/james-jim-walsh\/\u0022\u003EJim Walsh\u003C\/a\u003E. Kulkarni is vice president of Product Management and Strategy for the Gas Power business within GE Vernova, where he oversees the world\u2019s largest portfolio of power generation equipment. Walsh, vice president of GE Vernova\u2019s Consulting Services, leads teams providing innovative solutions across the full spectrum of power generation, delivery, and utilization.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext comes a policy-focused panel that will explore the surge in power demand driven by AI, how the United States is addressing today\u2019s most urgent energy challenges, and the long-term implications of today\u2019s decisions for a sustainable energy future. Bringing together leading voices in U.S. environmental and energy policy, the panel features\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/joseph-aldy-0794942\/\u0022\u003EJoe Aldy\u003C\/a\u003E of Harvard University and former special assistant to the president for Energy and Environment;\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/al-mcgartland-161689a\/\u0022\u003EAl McGartland\u003C\/a\u003E of New York University\u2019s Institute for Policy Integrity and former Environmental Protection Agency lead economist and director of the National Center for Environmental Economics; and\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/kevinrennert\/\u0022\u003EKevin Rennert\u003C\/a\u003E, fellow and director of the Comprehensive Climate Strategies Program at Resources for the Future and former staff member on the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe second panel focuses on critical materials \u2014 the foundation of advanced energy systems and digital technologies. As AI, data centers, and advanced energy technologies drive demand for critical materials, securing them now requires integration and coordination across the entire value chain. Panelists include \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/rachel-galloway\u0022 id=\u0022menur1su2\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/rachel-galloway\u0022\u003ERachel Galloway\u003C\/a\u003E,\u0026nbsp;British consul general in Atlanta;\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/vijaymurugesan\/\u0022\u003EVijay Murugesan\u003C\/a\u003E, head of Materials Intelligence and Digital Innovation at Amazon; \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/colinspellmeyer\/?utm_source=share_via\u0026amp;utm_content=profile\u0026amp;utm_medium=member_ios\u0022 title=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/colinspellmeyer\/?utm_source=share_via\u0026amp;utm_content=profile\u0026amp;utm_medium=member_ios\u0022\u003EColin Spellmeyer\u003C\/a\u003E,\u0026nbsp;executive strategic sourcing leader at GE Vernova; \u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/haslam.utk.edu\/people\/profile\/charles-sims\/\u0022\u003ECharles Sims\u003C\/a\u003E, Tennessee Valley Authority Distinguished Professor of Energy and Environmental Policy at the University of Tennessee; and\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/nnnyeboah\/\u0022 id=\u0022menur1sua\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/nnnyeboah\/\u0022\u003ENortey Yeboah\u003C\/a\u003E, principal engineer at Southern Company. Together, they will offer perspectives on the policy and economic frameworks shaping the energy supply chain, from developing raw resources to manufacturing the technologies essential to future energy systems.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the afternoon, participants can dive deeper into specialized topics through three focused technical tracks.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u201c\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/energyday\/track1_meet_demand_for_power\u0022\u003EMeeting the Demand for Power\u003C\/a\u003E\u201d will examine how emerging technologies, advanced nuclear systems, and renewable integration can work together to deliver reliable, resilient electricity.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u201c\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/energyday\/track2-data-center-infrastructure-and-resources\u0022\u003EData Center Infrastructure and Resources\u003C\/a\u003E\u201d will explore innovations in thermal management technologies, energy-efficient computing, and the broader resource impacts of expanding digital infrastructure.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u201c\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/energyday\/track3-grid-technologies-and-markets\u0022\u003EGrid Technologies and Markets\u003C\/a\u003E\u201d will highlight strategies for strengthening grid capacity, incorporating demand-side management, and optimizing carbon performance as energy systems evolve.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cMeeting the rapidly rising electricity demand driven by AI requires bold ideas, coordinated action, and research that moves at the speed of innovation,\u201d said \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/energy.gatech.edu\/people\/yuanzhi-tang\u0022\u003EYuanzhi Tang\u003C\/a\u003E, executive director of the SEI. \u201cEnergy Day 2026 brings together the people and expertise needed to shape resilient, sustainable energy systems for the future. At Georgia Tech, we see this event as a catalyst for new partnerships, new solutions, and a shared commitment to strengthening the nation\u2019s energy foundation.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEnergy Day 2026 is designed for researchers advancing emerging energy technologies, policymakers navigating shifting regulatory and geopolitical landscapes, industry professionals seeking insight into emerging tools and supply chains, and students preparing to enter one of the most consequential sectors of the decade. It also welcomes anyone interested in AI, sustainability, electrification, and critical materials.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJoin us to explore the future of energy. To learn more and register, visit:\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/energyday\u0022 target=\u0022_new\u0022\u003EEnergy Day 2026\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/energyday\u0022\u003EEnergy Day\u003C\/a\u003E returns this year on March 19 with an expanded focus and a new collaborative momentum. Cohosted by the Georgia Tech\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/matter-systems.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EInstitute for Matter and\u0026nbsp;Systems\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;(IMS) and the \u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.research.gatech.edu\/energy\u0022\u003EStrategic Energy Institute\u003C\/a\u003E,\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;(SEI) with plenary session support from the\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EEnergy Policy and Innovation Center\u003C\/a\u003E, Energy Day 2026 convenes leaders from academia, industry, government, and students to address the challenges associated with meeting the rapidly growing electricity demand driven by artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Join us on March 19 as we explore one of the most urgent questions facing the nation: How do we power an AI\u2011driven future?"}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2026-03-06 20:46:52","changed_gmt":"2026-03-20 16:57:12","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-03-06T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-03-06T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679541":{"id":"679541","type":"image","title":"EnergyDayEmailHeader.jpg","body":null,"created":"1772830025","gmt_created":"2026-03-06 20:47:05","changed":"1772830025","gmt_changed":"2026-03-06 20:47:05","alt":"Georgia Tech Energy Day 2026 Header Image with three boxes showing an image of a datacenter, an electric bulb with energy sources around it and a multi-colored critical mineral ","file":{"fid":"263714","name":"EnergyDayEmailHeader.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/06\/EnergyDayEmailHeader.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/06\/EnergyDayEmailHeader.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":147447,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/06\/EnergyDayEmailHeader.jpg?itok=i6baP0eA"}}},"media_ids":["679541"],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"194607","name":"Batteries"},{"id":"131","name":"Economic Development and Policy"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"133","name":"Special Events and Guest Speakers"},{"id":"8862","name":"Student Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"193655","name":"Artificial Intelligence at Georgia Tech"},{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"39471","name":"Materials"},{"id":"193652","name":"Matter and Systems"},{"id":"39481","name":"National Security"},{"id":"39491","name":"Renewable Bioproducts"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EPriya Devarajan\u003C\/a\u003E | Communications Program Manager\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688798":{"#nid":"688798","#data":{"type":"news","title":"$8.9 Million Approved for Georgia Forestry Innovation Initiative ","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia\u2019s forest industry has long been a pillar of the state\u2019s rural economy. But in recent years, mill closures and shifting markets have put pressure on landowners, workers, and entire communities, particularly in south Georgia. A recently approved $8.9 million \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/gatrees.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Forestry-Task-Force-Report-FINAL.pdf\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EGeorgia Forestry Innovation Initiative\u003C\/a\u003E will help chart a new path forward, creating more value from Georgia\u2019s abundant forest resources and expanding opportunities for the people and regions depending on them.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech is pleased to partner with the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/gatrees.org\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EGeorgia Forestry Commission\u003C\/a\u003E on the approved $8.9 million Georgia Forestry Innovation Initiative included in Gov. Brian Kemp\u2019s amended FY 2026 budget. This effort aims to transform low-value wood and mill byproducts into high-value materials, strengthening Georgia\u2019s forest-based economy and supporting new commercial opportunities across the state. The initiative will establish pilot facilities and accelerate technology to business transfer in partnership with industry, with the long-term goal of enabling multiple manufacturing sites across Georgia.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe appreciate the state\u2019s investment in helping move these innovations from the lab to Georgia businesses,\u201d said \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/2863\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ECarson Meredith\u003C\/a\u003E, executive director of Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/renewablebioproducts.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ERenewable Bioproducts Institute\u003C\/a\u003E (RBI). \u201cWe also acknowledge the critical support of industry collaborators and partners like the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/gfagrow.org\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EGeorgia Forestry Association\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/gffgrow.org\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EGeorgia Forestry Foundation\u003C\/a\u003E.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe work builds on collaborative interdisciplinary research at Georgia Tech involving \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/chbe.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ESchool of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E Professors \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/andreas-bommarius\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EAndreas Bommarius\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.chbe.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/christopher-luettgen\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EChris Luettgen\u003C\/a\u003E and Meredith; \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/chemistry.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ESchool of Chemistry and Biochemistry\u003C\/a\u003E Professor \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/chemistry.gatech.edu\/people\/stefan-france\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EStefan France\u003C\/a\u003E and Professor of the Practice \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/chemistry.gatech.edu\/people\/anthony-j-bo-arduengo\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EA.J. \u201cBo\u201d Arduengo\u003C\/a\u003E; and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/isye.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EH. Milton Stewart School of Industrial Systems and Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E Professor \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.isye.gatech.edu\/users\/valerie-thomas\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EValerie Thomas\u003C\/a\u003E. Gary Black, RBI program manager, has also contributed to this effort. It is led by RBI\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/rbi1.gatech.edu\/research\/center-for-renewables-based-economy-from-wood\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ECenter for a Renewables-Based Economy from Wood\u003C\/a\u003E (ReWOOD.) The effort reflects years of cross-disciplinary collaboration among faculty and staff committed to advancing sustainable, wood-based technologies.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech is pleased to partner with the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/gatrees.org\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EGeorgia Forestry Commission\u003C\/a\u003E on the approved $8.9 million Georgia Forestry Innovation Initiative included in Gov. Brian Kemp\u2019s amended FY 2026 budget. This effort aims to transform low-value wood and mill byproducts into high-value materials, strengthening Georgia\u2019s forest-based economy and supporting new commercial opportunities across the state.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech is pleased to partner with the Georgia Forestry Commission on the approved $8.9 million Georgia Forestry Innovation Initiative included in Gov. Brian Kemp\u2019s amended FY 2026 budget. "}],"uid":"36757","created_gmt":"2026-03-06 17:18:30","changed_gmt":"2026-03-20 13:02:58","author":"ychernet3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-03-10T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-03-10T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679569":{"id":"679569","type":"image","title":"georgia-forest.jpeg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech is pleased to partner with the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/gatrees.org\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EGeorgia Forestry Commission\u003C\/a\u003E on the approved $8.9 million Georgia Forestry Innovation Initiative included in Gov. Brian Kemp\u2019s amended FY 2026 budget.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1773166846","gmt_created":"2026-03-10 18:20:46","changed":"1773166846","gmt_changed":"2026-03-10 18:20:46","alt":"Tall pine trees in a sunlit forest with dense green grasses and undergrowth covering the forest floor.","file":{"fid":"263745","name":"georgia-forest.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/10\/georgia-forest.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/10\/georgia-forest.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1769985,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/10\/georgia-forest.jpeg?itok=tKeLvrC4"}}},"media_ids":["679569"],"groups":[{"id":"372221","name":"Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39491","name":"Renewable Bioproducts"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71911","name":"Earth and Environment"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMedia Contact:\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003EJennifer Martin\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:jennifer.martin@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Ejennifer.martin@research.gatech.edu\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"689055":{"#nid":"689055","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Hundreds of Hungry Mosquitoes, a Student Volunteer and a Mesh Suit","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv class=\u0022theconversation-article-body\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cFour minutes is too long.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-right zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724202\/original\/file-20260316-57-8quhxt.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Man\u0026apos;s arm with multiple pink raised welts\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724202\/original\/file-20260316-57-8quhxt.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=237\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724202\/original\/file-20260316-57-8quhxt.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=827\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724202\/original\/file-20260316-57-8quhxt.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=827\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724202\/original\/file-20260316-57-8quhxt.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=827\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724202\/original\/file-20260316-57-8quhxt.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=1040\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724202\/original\/file-20260316-57-8quhxt.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=1040\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724202\/original\/file-20260316-57-8quhxt.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=1040\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003ESome of Chris Zuo\u2019s itchy results after his session with the mosquitoes.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution source\u0022\u003EDavid L. Hu\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat\u2019s the note undergraduate Chris Zuo sent me along with photos of countless mosquito bites on his bare skin. This full-body massacre wasn\u2019t the result of a camping trip gone awry. He\u2019d spent that limited amount of time in a room with 100 hungry mosquitoes while wearing nothing but a mesh suit we thought would have protected him.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThus began our three-year journey trying to \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1126\/sciadv.adz7063\u0022\u003Eunderstand the behavior\u003C\/a\u003E of a deceivingly simple insect, the mosquito. It may sound like a professor\u2019s sadistic plan, but, really, we did everything by the book. Our university\u2019s institutional review board approved our procedures, making sure Chris was safe and not coerced in any way. The mosquitoes were disease-free and native to our home state of Georgia. And this session resulted in the first and last bites anyone received during the study.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBesides my role as torturer of students, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?user=pydtIvYAAAAJ\u0026amp;hl=en\u0026amp;oi=ao\u0022\u003EI\u003C\/a\u003E am an \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/press.princeton.edu\/our-authors\/hu-david\u0022\u003Eauthor\u003C\/a\u003E and professor at Georgia Tech with over 20 years of experience studying the movement of animals.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMosquitoes are the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ourworldindata.org\/deadliest-animals\u0022\u003Eworld\u2019s most dangerous animal\u003C\/a\u003E. The diseases they carry, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.who.int\/news-room\/fact-sheets\/detail\/malaria\u0022\u003Efrom malaria\u003C\/a\u003E \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.who.int\/news-room\/fact-sheets\/detail\/dengue-and-severe-dengue\u0022\u003Eto dengue\u003C\/a\u003E, cause over \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.who.int\/news-room\/fact-sheets\/detail\/vector-borne-diseases\u0022\u003E700,000 deaths per year\u003C\/a\u003E. More people have died from mosquitoes than wars.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe world \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2023\/09\/29\/health\/mosquitoes-malaria-strategies-house.html\u0022\u003Espends US$22 billion per year\u003C\/a\u003E on billions of liters of insecticides, millions of pounds of larvicides, and millions of insecticide-treated bed nets \u2013 all to fight a tiny insect that weighs 10 times less than a grain of rice and has only \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1371\/journal.pone.0250381\u0022\u003E200,000 neurons\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYet, people are losing the war on mosquitoes. These insects are evolving to \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1126\/science.aam8327\u0022\u003Ethrive in cities\u003C\/a\u003E and spreading disease \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.pt.2017.11.006\u0022\u003Emore rapidly with climate change\u003C\/a\u003E. How can such simple animals find us so easily?\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EScientists know mosquitoes have terrible eyesight and depend on chemical cues to make up for it. Knowing what attracts a mosquito, though, isn\u2019t enough to predict its behavior. You can know a heat-seeking missile is drawn to heat, but you still won\u2019t know how a missile works.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEnter Chris and his self-sacrifice in the mosquito room. By tracking the flight of many mosquitoes around him, we hoped to determine how they made decisions in response to his presence. Understanding how mosquitoes respond to humans is a first step to controlling them.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHow Mosquitoes Zero In On Their Meal\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOut of 3,500 species of mosquitoes, over 100 species are classified as anthropophilic, meaning they prefer humans for lunch. Certain species of mosquitoes will find the one person among a whole herd of cattle in order to suck human blood.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis is quite a feat considering mosquitoes are weak flyers. They stop flying in a slight \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1242\/jeb.178905\u0022\u003E2-3 mph breeze\u003C\/a\u003E, the same air speed generated by a \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1242\/jeb.178905\u0022\u003Ehorse\u2019s swinging tail\u003C\/a\u003E. In calmer conditions, mosquitoes use their minuscule brains to follow \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/s10905-022-09796-2\u0022\u003Ehuman heat, moisture and odors\u003C\/a\u003E that are carried downwind.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECarbon dioxide, the byproduct of respiration of all living animals, is particularly attractive. Mosquitoes notice carbon dioxide as well as you notice the stink of a full dumpster, detecting it up to 30 feet (9 meters) away from a host, where concentrations dip to a \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1093\/jmedent\/44.4.617\u0022\u003Efew parts per million\u003C\/a\u003E, like a few cups of dye in an Olympic-size pool.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-center zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724198\/original\/file-20260316-57-vumrcy.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Black outline of a G and T in left panel, in right panel black squiggles showing flight paths of mosquitoes around the letters\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724198\/original\/file-20260316-57-vumrcy.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724198\/original\/file-20260316-57-vumrcy.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=320\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724198\/original\/file-20260316-57-vumrcy.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=320\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724198\/original\/file-20260316-57-vumrcy.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=320\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724198\/original\/file-20260316-57-vumrcy.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=402\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724198\/original\/file-20260316-57-vumrcy.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=402\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724198\/original\/file-20260316-57-vumrcy.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=402\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003ELike superfans, mosquitoes are drawn to the dark outline of the Georgia Tech logo.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution source\u0022\u003EDavid L. Hu, Georgia Tech\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMosquitoes\u2019 vision isn\u2019t much help as they hunt for their next blood meal. Their two compound eyes have several hundred individual lenses called ommatidia, each about the width of a human hair. They produce a somewhat blurry mosaic or pixelated image. Due to the laws of optics, mosquitoes can discern an adult-size human only at a few meters away. With their vision alone, they cannot distinguish a human from a small tree. They inspect every dark object.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EGathering the Flight-Path Data\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe challenge with studying mosquito flight is that, like trash-talking teenagers, most of what they do is meaningless noise. Mosquitoes flying in an empty room are largely making random changes in flight speed and direction. We needed many flight trajectories to cut through the noise.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-center zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724200\/original\/file-20260316-57-z0f39m.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022A man lying on the ground, and shown in two images on a laptop screen in the foreground\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724200\/original\/file-20260316-57-z0f39m.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724200\/original\/file-20260316-57-z0f39m.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=326\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724200\/original\/file-20260316-57-z0f39m.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=326\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724200\/original\/file-20260316-57-z0f39m.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=326\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724200\/original\/file-20260316-57-z0f39m.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=410\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724200\/original\/file-20260316-57-z0f39m.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=410\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724200\/original\/file-20260316-57-z0f39m.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=410\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003EIn a mesh suit, Chris Zuo awaits the mosquitoes while questioning his life choices.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution source\u0022\u003EDavid L. Hu, Georgia Tech\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne of our collaborators, University of California, Riverside, biologist \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?user=XOveQssAAAAJ\u0026amp;hl=en\u0026amp;oi=ao\u0022\u003ERing Card\u00e9\u003C\/a\u003E, told us that back in the 1980s, scientists conducted \u201cbite studies\u201d by stripping down to their underwear and slapping the mosquitoes that landed on their naked bodies. He said nudity prevented confounding variables, such as the color of a shirt\u2019s fabric.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EChris and I looked at each other. Sit naked and wait to become mosquito prey? Instead, we designed the mesh suit that Chris originally wore into the mosquito room. But after seeing Chris\u2019 bites, we needed a better way.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInstead, Chris washed long-sleeved clothes in unscented detergent and wore gloves and a face mask. Fully protected, Chris only had to stand and wait, while a cloud of mosquitoes swarmed him.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention introduced us to the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/photonicsentry.com\/\u0022\u003EPhotonic Sentry\u003C\/a\u003E, a camera that simultaneously tracks hundreds of flying insects in a room. It records 100 frames per second at 5 mm resolution for a space like a large studio apartment. In just a few hours, Chris and another graduate student, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?user=pJLlOo8AAAAJ\u0026amp;hl=en\u0026amp;oi=sra\u0022\u003ESoohwan Kim\u003C\/a\u003E, generated more mosquito flight data than had previously been measured in human history.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ciframe width=\u0022440\u0022 height=\u0022260\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/A4WUw-ZCoFk?wmode=transparent\u0026amp;start=0\u0022 frameborder=\u00220\u0022 allowfullscreen=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003C\/iframe\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003E100 mosquitoes flying around Chris Zuo for 10 minutes. Only a fraction of tracks are shown.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?user=YJlkBuAAAAAJ\u0026amp;hl=en\u0026amp;oi=ao\u0022\u003EJ\u00f6rn Dunkel\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?user=3V6dgsoAAAAJ\u0026amp;hl=en\u0026amp;oi=sra\u0022\u003EChenyi Fei\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?user=89drxM4AAAAJ\u0026amp;hl=en\u0026amp;oi=sra\u0022\u003EAlex Cohen\u003C\/a\u003E, our mathematician collaborators at MIT, told us that the geometry of Chris\u2019 body was still too complicated to study the mosquitoes\u2019 reactions. Mathematicians excel at simplifying complex problems to their essence. Chenyi suggested we go easy on Chris \u2013 why not replace him with a simple dummy: a black Styrofoam ball on a stick combined with a canister of carbon dioxide.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOver the next two years, Chris filmed the mosquitoes circling the Styrofoam dummies mercilessly. Then he vacuumed up the mosquitoes, trying not to get bitten.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EDeciphering the Trajectories\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA mosquito flies like you would an airplane: it turns left or right, accelerates or hits the brakes. We determined a mosquito\u2019s flight behavior as a function of its speed, location and direction with respect to the target as the first step in creating our model of their behavior.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOur confidence in our behavioral rules increased as we read more trajectories, ultimately using 20 million mosquito positions and speeds. This idea of incorporating observations to support a mathematical hypothesis is a 200-year-old idea called \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/medium.com\/@chonghankhai\/bayesian-thinking-in-everyday-life-bf82fe2ab0af\u0022\u003EBayesian inference\u003C\/a\u003E. We illustrated the mosquito behavior we\u2019d observed in a \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/acoh64.github.io\/mosquito_app\/\u0022\u003Eweb application\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-center zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724564\/original\/file-20260318-57-2aq2gy.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u00224 panels showing trajectory of a mosquito in the presence of no target, visual target, CO2 target or both.\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724564\/original\/file-20260318-57-2aq2gy.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724564\/original\/file-20260318-57-2aq2gy.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=169\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724564\/original\/file-20260318-57-2aq2gy.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=169\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724564\/original\/file-20260318-57-2aq2gy.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=169\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724564\/original\/file-20260318-57-2aq2gy.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=212\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724564\/original\/file-20260318-57-2aq2gy.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=212\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/724564\/original\/file-20260318-57-2aq2gy.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=212\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003EA mosquito\u2019s flight changes with the kind of target presented.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution source\u0022\u003EDavid L. Hu\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUsing our model, we showed how different targets cause mosquitoes to fly differently. Visual targets cause fly-bys, where mosquitoes fly past the target. Carbon dioxide causes double takes, where mosquitoes slow down near the target. The combination of a visual cue and carbon dioxide creates high-speed orbiting patterns.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUp until now, we had used only experiments with Styrofoam spheres to train our model. The true test was whether it could predict mosquito flights around a human. Chris returned to the chamber, this time wearing all white clothes and a black hat, turning himself into a bull\u2019s-eye. Our model successfully predicted the distribution of mosquitoes around him. We identified zones of danger, where there was a high chance of a mosquito circling around him.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPredicting mosquito behavior is a first step toward outsmarting them. In mosquito-prone areas, people design \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.3389\/fpubh.2024.1404493\u0022\u003Ehouses with features to prevent mosquitoes\u003C\/a\u003E from following human cues and entering. Similarly, mosquito traps suck in mosquitoes when they get too close but still allow between \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1093\/jme\/tjz243\u0022\u003E50% and 90% of mosquitoes to escape\u003C\/a\u003E. Many of these designs are based on trial and error. We hope that \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1126\/sciadv.adz7063\u0022\u003Eour study provides a more precise tool\u003C\/a\u003E for designing methods for mosquito capture or deterrence.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen Chris\u2019 mother attended his master\u2019s degree defense, I asked her how she felt about her son using himself as bait for mosquitoes. She said she was very proud. So am I \u2013 and not just because I\u2019m relieved Chris didn\u2019t ask me to take his place in the mosquito chamber.\u003C!-- Below is The Conversation\u0027s page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --\u003E\u003Cimg style=\u0022border-color:!important;border-style:none;box-shadow:none !important;margin:0 !important;max-height:1px !important;max-width:1px !important;min-height:1px !important;min-width:1px !important;opacity:0 !important;outline:none !important;padding:0 !important;\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/counter.theconversation.com\/content\/278486\/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic\u0022 alt=\u0022The Conversation\u0022 width=\u00221\u0022 height=\u00221\u0022 referrerpolicy=\u0022no-referrer-when-downgrade\u0022\u003E\u003C!-- End of code. If you don\u0027t see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https:\/\/theconversation.com\/republishing-guidelines --\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis article is republished from \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThe Conversation\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E under a Creative Commons license. Read the \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/hundreds-of-hungry-mosquitoes-a-student-volunteer-and-a-mesh-suit-helped-us-figure-out-how-these-deadly-insects-reach-their-targets-278486\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003Eoriginal article\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"full_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EBy tracking the flight of many mosquitoes around a student volunteer, we hoped to determine how they made decisions in response to his presence. Understanding how mosquitoes respond to humans is a first step to controlling them.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"By tracking the flight of many mosquitoes around a student volunteer, we hoped to determine how they made decisions in response to his presence. Understanding how mosquitoes respond to humans is a first step to controlling them."}],"uid":"27469","created_gmt":"2026-03-18 16:52:12","changed_gmt":"2026-03-19 16:57:10","author":"Kristen Bailey","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-03-18T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-03-18T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679694":{"id":"679694","type":"image","title":"Trajectories of mosquitoes flying around a human target. David L. Hu, Georgia Tech","body":"\u003Cp\u003ETrajectories of mosquitoes flying around a human target. David L. Hu, Georgia Tech\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1773939193","gmt_created":"2026-03-19 16:53:13","changed":"1773939193","gmt_changed":"2026-03-19 16:53:13","alt":"Trajectories of mosquitoes flying around a human target. David L. Hu, Georgia Tech","file":{"fid":"263886","name":"file-20260317-57-gbcbz7.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/19\/file-20260317-57-gbcbz7.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/19\/file-20260317-57-gbcbz7.png","mime":"image\/png","size":2835625,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/19\/file-20260317-57-gbcbz7.png?itok=JyAHkg79"}}},"media_ids":["679694"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/theconversation.com\/hundreds-of-hungry-mosquitoes-a-student-volunteer-and-a-mesh-suit-helped-us-figure-out-how-these-deadly-insects-reach-their-targets-278486","title":"Read This Article on The Conversation"}],"groups":[{"id":"1237","name":"College of Engineering"},{"id":"1278","name":"College of Sciences"},{"id":"658168","name":"Experts"},{"id":"142761","name":"IRIM"},{"id":"1214","name":"News Room"},{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"1275","name":"School of Biological Sciences"},{"id":"108731","name":"School of Mechanical Engineering"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"}],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71911","name":"Earth and Environment"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Ch5\u003EAuthor:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/profiles\/david-hu-204122\u0022\u003EDavid Hu\u003C\/a\u003E, Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Biology, Adjunct Professor of Physics, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/institutions\/georgia-institute-of-technology-1310\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EGeorgia Institute of Technology\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch5\u003EMedia Contact:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShelley Wunder-Smith\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:shelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Eshelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"689054":{"#nid":"689054","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Researchers Develop Biodegradable, Plant\u2011Based Packaging From Natural Fibers","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv class=\u0022theconversation-article-body\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?user=YpxchNkAAAAJ\u0026amp;hl=en\u0022\u003EJie Wu\u003C\/a\u003E, an engineering graduate student, was studying a type of striking white beetle found in Southeast Asia and attempting to figure out how to mimic its brilliant color when an unexpected discovery upended the experiment.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJie and I had been hoping to identify naturally occurring whitening pigments that could be used in paper and paints. The beetle\u2019s white exoskeleton is made from a compound called chitin, which is a type of carbohydrate \u2013 one that is also commonly found in crab and lobster shells.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst, Jie extracted chitin nanofibers from crab shells obtained from food waste that are chemically the same as those found in the white beetles. But instead of creating a white material as intended, Jie produced dense, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1021\/bm501416q\u0022\u003Etransparent films\u003C\/a\u003E. The nanofibers more readily assembled in tightly packed films than in the porous structures Jie desired.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-right zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/721546\/original\/file-20260303-57-g7dkdj.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Two white beetles\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/721546\/original\/file-20260303-57-g7dkdj.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=237\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/721546\/original\/file-20260303-57-g7dkdj.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=882\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/721546\/original\/file-20260303-57-g7dkdj.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=882\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/721546\/original\/file-20260303-57-g7dkdj.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=882\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/721546\/original\/file-20260303-57-g7dkdj.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=1109\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/721546\/original\/file-20260303-57-g7dkdj.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=1109\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/721546\/original\/file-20260303-57-g7dkdj.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=1109\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003EAn attempt to mimic the striking white color of \u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003ECyphochilus\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003E beetles led researchers to a unique discovery.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Ca class=\u0022source\u0022 href=\u0022https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Cyphochilus#\/media\/File:Cyphochilus_beetles.jpg\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution\u0022\u003EOlimpia1lli\/Wikimedia Commons\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution\u0022\u003E, \u003C\/span\u003E\u003Ca class=\u0022license\u0022 href=\u0022http:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-nd\/4.0\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution\u0022\u003ECC BY-NC-ND\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn a whim, Jie measured the rate at which oxygen passed through the film. The result was astonishing: The barrier allowed less oxygen through than many existing packaging plastics.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat serendipitous finding in 2014 shifted \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?user=3qOG6PUAAAAJ\u0026amp;hl=en\u0022\u003Emy team\u003C\/a\u003E of engineering students\u2019 focus from color to packaging. We asked whether natural materials could rival the performance of common plastics. In the years since, our team has used this discovery to create biodegradable films that offer a more sustainable and effective alternative to plastic packaging.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EChallenges of Plastic Packaging\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPlastic packaging is commonly used to protect food, pharmaceuticals and personal care products. These plastics keep out moisture and oxygen from the air, so products stay \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/C2012-0-00246-3\u0022\u003Efresh and safe\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMost packaging has several layers that work together to keep air out, but these layers hinder reuse and recycling efforts. As a result, most of this plastic barrier packaging is discarded to landfills as single-use materials.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMany researchers have sought alternatives that are renewable, biodegradable or recyclable, yet just as effective. At Georgia Tech, my team of students and post-docs has spent more than a decade tackling this problem. This journey began with that beetle.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EBuilding a Better Barrier\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/science\/chitin\u0022\u003EChitin\u003C\/a\u003E is widely available in food waste and mushrooms, and it is used in products such as water filters and wound dressing. However, our early attempts to scale up the film technology based on the beetle-inspired experiment failed.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn 2018, the team made an important leap forward by \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1021\/acssuschemeng.8b01536\u0022\u003Eusing spray coating to create layers\u003C\/a\u003E of chitin and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.niehs.nih.gov\/health\/topics\/agents\/sya-nano\u0022\u003Ecellulose nanomaterials\u003C\/a\u003E. Cellulose, like chitin, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/science\/cellulose\u0022\u003Eis a carbohydrate polymer\u003C\/a\u003E \u2013 a chain of repeating carbohydrate units \u2013 and it is obtained from plants. These abundant natural materials have opposite electric charges, which led to better barrier performance when we combined them than either material alone.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn this approach, the team sprayed down a layer of chitin, followed by a layer of cellulose. The opposite charges between the chitin and cellulose created a long-range attraction between them that binds the layers to create a dense interface.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELater, in collaboration with \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?user=BrXwtO4AAAAJ\u0026amp;hl=en\u0022\u003EMeisha Shofner\u003C\/a\u003E, a materials scientist, and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/me.gatech.edu\/faculty\/harris\u0022\u003ETequila Harris\u003C\/a\u003E, a mechanical engineer, other students showed these coatings could be applied with \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1021\/acsami.2c09925\u0022\u003Escalable, roll-to-roll techniques\u003C\/a\u003E. Roll-to-roll coating methods are preferred in industry because the coatings are applied continuously to large rolls of a substrate material, such as paper or other biodegradable plastics.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ciframe width=\u0022440\u0022 height=\u0022260\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/EBNyjJFB8Zc?wmode=transparent\u0026amp;start=0\u0022 frameborder=\u00220\u0022 allowfullscreen=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003C\/iframe\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003ERoll-to-roll coating allows manufacturers to easily apply thin layers of coating to a base material, called a substrate.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStill, humidity posed a major challenge, limiting any real-world applications. Moisture swelled the film, allowing more oxygen to sneak through.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThen came another breakthrough. In 2024, another collaborator, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?user=ZILIcOwAAAAJ\u0026amp;hl=en\u0022\u003ENatalie Stingelin\u003C\/a\u003E, and I discovered that two common food components resisted water vapor when combined: carboxymethylcellulose \u2013 which is found in ice cream, for example \u2013 and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/compound\/Citric-Acid\u0022\u003Ecitric acid\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe result was a film that \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1039\/D4SU00425F\u0022\u003Ehindered the transmission of moisture\u003C\/a\u003E. The citric acid reacted with the cellulose to form cross-links, which are chemical junctions that bind the cellulose molecules. Once bound, they reduced the film\u2019s moisture uptake.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe integrated this new discovery with the prior work by combining the citric acid and cellulose, and then casting this mixture as a freestanding film by coating it onto a substrate, such as chitin.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHowever, that formulation did not have strong oxygen barrier properties because it did not contain the highly crystalline cellulose nanomaterials from our first film. Our team\u2019s most \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1021\/acsapm.5c02909\u0022\u003Erecent achievement\u003C\/a\u003E, from October 2025, combines the above innovations. As a result, we\u2019ve created a bio-based film that is an excellent barrier to both oxygen and moisture.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-center zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710006\/original\/file-20251220-56-gcunhe.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022A diagram showing a rectangle representing a biodegradable film, with an arrow deflecting off of it showing how it keeps out water vapor and oxygen. On the right is the film.\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710006\/original\/file-20251220-56-gcunhe.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710006\/original\/file-20251220-56-gcunhe.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=300\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710006\/original\/file-20251220-56-gcunhe.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=300\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710006\/original\/file-20251220-56-gcunhe.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=300\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710006\/original\/file-20251220-56-gcunhe.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=377\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710006\/original\/file-20251220-56-gcunhe.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=377\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/710006\/original\/file-20251220-56-gcunhe.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=377\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003EAn oxygen and water vapor barrier film composed of blended cellulose and chitin.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution source\u0022\u003EJ. Carson Meredith\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EScaling Up Production\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen cast into thin films, these components self-organize into a dense structure that resists swelling with water vapor. Tests showed that \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1021\/acsapm.5c02909\u0022\u003Eeven at 80% humidity\u003C\/a\u003E the film matched or outperformed common packaging plastics.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe materials are renewable, biodegradable and compostable. Our team has filed several patent applications, and we are working with industry partners to develop specific packaging uses.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne challenge that applications face is a limited supply of the bio-based components compared to the high volume of conventional plastics. Like any new material, it would take time for manufacturers to develop supply chains as the films begin to be used.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor example, the market demand for purified chitin is small right now, as it is used in niche applications, such as wound dressings and water filtration. Due to its variety of uses, packaging could increase that market demand.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe next challenge is scaling up from experimental films to industrial production, which would likely take several years. The team is exploring roll-to-roll coating techniques and working with industry partners to integrate these materials into existing packaging lines.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPolicy and consumer demand will also play a role. As governments push for \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/why-stop-at-plastic-bags-and-straws-the-case-for-a-global-treaty-banning-most-single-use-plastics-109857\u0022\u003Ebans on single-use plastics\u003C\/a\u003E and companies set sustainability targets, bio-based films could become part of the solution.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe story of this breakthrough reminds me that science often advances through unexpected results. From a failed attempt to mimic a beetle\u2019s color to a promising alternative to plastic, this research shows how curiosity can lead to solutions for some of our biggest challenges.\u003C!-- Below is The Conversation\u0027s page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --\u003E\u003Cimg style=\u0022border-color:!important;border-style:none;box-shadow:none !important;margin:0 !important;max-height:1px !important;max-width:1px !important;min-height:1px !important;min-width:1px !important;opacity:0 !important;outline:none !important;padding:0 !important;\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/counter.theconversation.com\/content\/271262\/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic\u0022 alt=\u0022The Conversation\u0022 width=\u00221\u0022 height=\u00221\u0022 referrerpolicy=\u0022no-referrer-when-downgrade\u0022\u003E\u003C!-- End of code. If you don\u0027t see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https:\/\/theconversation.com\/republishing-guidelines --\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis article is republished from \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThe Conversation\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E under a Creative Commons license. Read the \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/researchers-develop-biodegradable-plant-based-packaging-from-natural-fibers-new-research-271262\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003Eoriginal article\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"full_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EJie Wu, an engineering graduate student, was studying a type of striking white beetle found in Southeast Asia and attempting to figure out how to mimic its brilliant color when an unexpected discovery upended the experiment.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Jie Wu, an engineering graduate student, was studying a type of striking white beetle found in Southeast Asia and attempting to figure out how to mimic its brilliant color when an unexpected discovery upended the experiment."}],"uid":"27469","created_gmt":"2026-03-17 16:36:23","changed_gmt":"2026-03-19 16:43:18","author":"Kristen Bailey","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-03-17T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-03-17T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679693":{"id":"679693","type":"image","title":"Plastic packaging fills up landfills \u2013 engineers are working on a bio-based alternative that could replace the kind shown here. tuk69tuk\/iStock via Getty Images","body":"\u003Cp\u003EPlastic packaging fills up landfills \u2013 engineers are working on a bio-based alternative that could replace the kind shown here. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gettyimages.com\/detail\/photo\/white-plastic-bag-on-black-background-royalty-free-image\/1211742906?phrase=plastic%2Bwrap\u0022\u003Etuk69tuk\/iStock via Getty Images\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1773938347","gmt_created":"2026-03-19 16:39:07","changed":"1773938347","gmt_changed":"2026-03-19 16:39:07","alt":"Plastic packaging fills up landfills \u2013 engineers are working on a bio-based alternative that could replace the kind shown here. tuk69tuk\/iStock via Getty Images","file":{"fid":"263885","name":"file-20260303-57-8ad4eq.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/19\/file-20260303-57-8ad4eq.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/19\/file-20260303-57-8ad4eq.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":128914,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/19\/file-20260303-57-8ad4eq.jpg?itok=MPEKR6lv"}}},"media_ids":["679693"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/theconversation.com\/researchers-develop-biodegradable-plant-based-packaging-from-natural-fibers-new-research-271262","title":"Read This Article on The Conversation"}],"groups":[{"id":"1237","name":"College of Engineering"},{"id":"658168","name":"Experts"},{"id":"1214","name":"News Room"},{"id":"117301","name":"Renewable Bioproducts Institute"},{"id":"372221","name":"Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"1240","name":"School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering"},{"id":"660398","name":"Sustainability Hub"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"}],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71911","name":"Earth and Environment"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Ch5\u003EAuthor:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/profiles\/j-carson-meredith-2540164\u0022\u003EJ. Carson Meredith\u003C\/a\u003E, Professor of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/institutions\/georgia-institute-of-technology-1310\u0022\u003EGeorgia Institute of Technology\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch5\u003EMedia Contact:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShelley Wunder-Smith\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:shelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Eshelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"685455":{"#nid":"685455","#data":{"type":"news","title":"What Happens When AI Comes to the Cotton\u00a0Fields","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv class=\u0022theconversation-article-body\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrecision agriculture uses tools and technologies such as GPS and sensors to monitor, measure and respond to changes within a farm field in real time. This includes \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/3-ways-ai-can-help-farmers-tackle-the-challenges-of-modern-agriculture-213210\u0022\u003Eusing artificial intelligence\u003C\/a\u003E technologies for tasks such as helping farmers apply pesticides only where and when they are needed.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHowever, precision agriculture has \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gao.gov\/assets\/870\/865822.pdf\u0022\u003Enot been widely implemented\u003C\/a\u003E in many rural areas of the United States.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe study \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?hl=en\u0026amp;user=Smg8NicAAAAJ\u0026amp;view_op=list_works\u0026amp;sortby=pubdate\u0022\u003Esmart communities\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?hl=en\u0026amp;user=bRCOhqUAAAAJ\u0026amp;view_op=list_works\u0026amp;sortby=pubdate\u0022\u003Eenvironmental health sciences\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholars.georgiasouthern.edu\/en\/persons\/james-e-thomas-2\u0022\u003Ehealth policy and community health\u003C\/a\u003E, and we participated in a research project on AI and pesticide use in a rural Georgia agricultural community.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOur team, led by Georgia Southern University and the City of Millen, with support from University of Georgia Cooperative Extension, local high schools and agriculture technology company \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.farmsense.io\/\u0022\u003EFarmSense\u003C\/a\u003E, is piloting AI-powered sensors to help cotton farmers optimize pesticide use. Georgia is one of the top cotton-producing states in the U.S., with cotton \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.farm-monitor.com\/georgia-cotton-growers-face-challenges-change-in-2025\/\u0022\u003Econtributing nearly US$1 billion\u003C\/a\u003E to the state\u2019s economy in 2024. But \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gao.gov\/assets\/870\/865822.pdf\u0022\u003Eonly 13%\u003C\/a\u003E of Georgia farmers use precision agriculture practices.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EPublic-Private-Academic Partnership\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInnovation drives economic growth, but access to it often stops at major city limits. Smaller and rural communities are \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.jrurstud.2020.08.042\u0022\u003Efrequently left out\u003C\/a\u003E, lacking the funding, partnerships and technical resources that fuel progress elsewhere.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt the same time, 75% of generative AI\u2019s projected economic impact is concentrated in customer operations, marketing, software engineering and research and development, according to a \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.mckinsey.com\/capabilities\/mckinsey-digital\/our-insights\/the-economic-potential-of-generative-ai-the-next-productivity-frontier\u0022\u003E2023 McKinsey report\u003C\/a\u003E. In contrast, applications of AI that improve infrastructure, food systems, safety and health remain underexplored.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYet smaller and rural communities are rich in potential \u2014 home to anchor institutions like small businesses, civic groups and schools that are deeply invested in their communities. And that potential could be tapped to develop AI applications that fall outside of traditional corporate domains.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/pingeorgia.org\/\u0022\u003EPartnership for Innovation\u003C\/a\u003E, a coalition of people and organizations from academia, government and industry, helps bridge that gap. Since its launch almost five years ago, the Partnership for Innovation has supported \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/pingeorgia.org\/all_projects\/\u0022\u003E220 projects\u003C\/a\u003E across Georgia, South Carolina, Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, Texas and Alabama, partnering with more than 300 communities on challenges from energy poverty to river safety.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ciframe class=\u0022tc-infographic-datawrapper\u0022 style=\u0022border-width:0;\u0022 id=\u0022ulmi5\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/datawrapper.dwcdn.net\/ulmi5\/1\/\u0022 height=\u0022400px\u0022 width=\u0022100%\u0022 scrolling=\u0022no\u0022 frameborder=\u00220\u0022\u003E\u003C\/iframe\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne Partnership for Innovation program provides seed funding and technical support for community research teams. This support enables local problem-solving that strengthens both research scholarship and community outcomes. The program has recently focused on the role of civic artificial intelligence \u2013 AI that supports communities and local governments. Our project on cotton field pesticide use is part of this program.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ECotton Pests and Pesticides\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOur project in Jenkins County, Georgia, is testing that potential. Jenkins County, with a population of around 8,700, is among the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nass.usda.gov\/Statistics_by_State\/Georgia\/Publications\/County_Estimates\/2023\/GACotton2023.pdf\u0022\u003Etop 25 cotton-growing counties\u003C\/a\u003E in the state. In 2024, approximately \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gfb.org\/news\/ag-news\/post\/georgia-farmers-increase-acreage-for-peanuts-hay-and-oats\u0022\u003E1.1 million acres\u003C\/a\u003E of land in Georgia were planted with cotton, and based on the 2022 agricultural county profiles census, Jenkins County \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nass.usda.gov\/Publications\/AgCensus\/2022\/Online_Resources\/County_Profiles\/Georgia\/cp13165.pdf\u0022\u003Eranked 173rd\u003C\/a\u003E out of the \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/dx.doi.org\/10.1016\/j.fcr.2024.109483\u0022\u003E765 counties\u003C\/a\u003E producing cotton in the United States.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-center zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/690986\/original\/file-20250915-56-uruwf9.JPEG?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022a hand holding a white puffy object with leafy plants in the background\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/690986\/original\/file-20250915-56-uruwf9.JPEG?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/690986\/original\/file-20250915-56-uruwf9.JPEG?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=450\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/690986\/original\/file-20250915-56-uruwf9.JPEG?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=450\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/690986\/original\/file-20250915-56-uruwf9.JPEG?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=450\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/690986\/original\/file-20250915-56-uruwf9.JPEG?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=566\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/690986\/original\/file-20250915-56-uruwf9.JPEG?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=566\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/690986\/original\/file-20250915-56-uruwf9.JPEG?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=566\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003ECotton is a major part of Georgia\u2019s agriculture industry.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution source\u0022\u003EDaeshjea Mcgee\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe state benefits from fertile soils, a subtropical-to-temperate climate, and abundant natural resources, all of which support a thriving agricultural industry. But these same conditions also foster pests and diseases.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFarmers in Jenkins County, like many farmers, face numerous insect infestations, including stink bugs, cotton bollworms, corn earworms, tarnished plant bugs and aphids. Farmers make heavy use of pesticides. Without precise data on the bugs, farmers end up using more pesticides than they likely need, risking residents\u2019 health and adding costs.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile there are some existing tools for \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/safepestcontrol\/integrated-pest-management-ipm-principles\u0022\u003Eintegrated pest management\u003C\/a\u003E, such as the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/apps.bugwood.org\/apps\/gacottoninsectadv\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia Cotton Insect Advisor\u003C\/a\u003E app, they are not widely adopted and are limited to certain bugs. Other methods, such as traditional manual scouting and using sticky traps, are labor-intensive and time-consuming, particularly in the hot summer climate.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOur research team set out to combine AI-based early pest detection methods with existing integrated pest management practices and the insect advisor app. The goal was to significantly improve pest detection, decrease pesticide exposure levels and reduce insecticide use on cotton farms in Jenkins County. The work compares different insect monitoring methods and assesses pesticide levels in both the fields and nearby semi-urban areas.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe selected eight large cotton fields operated by local farmers in Millen, four active and four control sites, to collect environmental samples before farmers began planting cotton and applying pesticides.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-center zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/690987\/original\/file-20250915-56-h06lha.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022a triangular open-sided structure\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/690987\/original\/file-20250915-56-h06lha.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/690987\/original\/file-20250915-56-h06lha.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=450\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/690987\/original\/file-20250915-56-h06lha.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=450\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/690987\/original\/file-20250915-56-h06lha.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=450\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/690987\/original\/file-20250915-56-h06lha.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=566\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/690987\/original\/file-20250915-56-h06lha.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=566\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/690987\/original\/file-20250915-56-h06lha.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=566\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003EPest insects are identified by AI as they fly through a light sensor inside this trap.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution source\u0022\u003EDaeshjea Mcgee\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe team was aided by a new AI-based insect monitoring system called the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.farmsense.io\/our-product-farmsense-flightsensor\/\u0022\u003EFlightSensor\u003C\/a\u003E by FarmSense. The system uses a machine learning algorithm that was trained to recognize the unique wingbeats of each pest insect species. The specialized trap is equipped with infrared optical sensors that project an invisible infrared light beam \u2013 called a light curtain \u2013 across the entrance of a triangular tunnel. A sensor monitors the light curtain and uses the machine learning algorithm to identify each pest species as insects fly into the trap.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFlightSensor provides information on the prevalence of targeted insects, giving farmers an alternative to traditional manual insect scouting. The information enables the farmers to adjust their pesticide-spraying frequency to match the need.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWhat We\u2019ve Learned\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere are three things we have learned so far:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1. Predictive pest control potential\u003C\/strong\u003E \u2013 AI tools can help farmers pinpoint exactly where pest outbreaks are likely \u2013 before they happen. That means they can treat only the areas that need it, saving time, labor and pesticide costs. It\u2019s a shift from blanket spraying to precision farming \u2013 and it\u2019s a skill farmers can use season after season.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E2. Stronger decision-making for farmers\u003C\/strong\u003E \u2013 The preliminary results indicate that the proposed sensors can effectively monitor insect populations specific to cotton farms. Even after the sensors are gone, farmers who used them get better at spotting pests. That\u2019s because the AI dashboards and mobile apps help them see how pest populations grow over time and respond to different field conditions. Researchers also have the ability to access this data remotely through satellite-based monitoring platforms on their computers, further enhancing the collaboration and learning.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E3. Building local agtech talent\u003C\/strong\u003E \u2013 Training students and farmers on AI pest detection is doing more than protecting cotton crops. It\u2019s building digital literacy, opening doors to agtech careers and preparing communities for future innovation. The same tools could help local governments manage mosquitoes and ticks and open up more agtech innovations.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EBlueprint for Rural Innovation\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy using AI to detect pests early and reduce pesticide use, the project aims to lower harmful residues in local soil and air while supporting more sustainable farming. This pilot project could be a blueprint for how rural communities use AI generally to boost agriculture, reduce public health risks and build local expertise.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJust as important, this work encourages more civic AI applications \u2013 grounded in real community needs \u2013 that others can adopt and adapt elsewhere. AI and innovation do not need to be urban or corporate to have a significant effect, nor do you need advanced technology degrees to be innovative. With the right partnerships, small towns, too, can harness innovations for economic and community growth.\u003C!-- Below is The Conversation\u0027s page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --\u003E\u003Cimg style=\u0022border-color:!important;border-style:none;box-shadow:none !important;margin:0 !important;max-height:1px !important;max-width:1px !important;min-height:1px !important;min-width:1px !important;opacity:0 !important;outline:none !important;padding:0 !important;\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/counter.theconversation.com\/content\/261526\/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic\u0022 alt=\u0022The Conversation\u0022 width=\u00221\u0022 height=\u00221\u0022 referrerpolicy=\u0022no-referrer-when-downgrade\u0022\u003E\u003C!-- End of code. If you don\u0027t see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https:\/\/theconversation.com\/republishing-guidelines --\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis article is republished from \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThe Conversation\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E under a Creative Commons license. Read the \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/what-happens-when-ai-comes-to-the-cotton-fields-261526\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003Eoriginal article\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"full_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA Georgia Tech team is piloting AI-powered sensors to help cotton farmers optimize pesticide use.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"A Georgia Tech team is piloting AI-powered sensors to help cotton farmers optimize pesticide use."}],"uid":"27469","created_gmt":"2025-10-02 14:24:54","changed_gmt":"2026-03-19 13:11:47","author":"Kristen Bailey","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-09-23T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-09-23T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678243":{"id":"678243","type":"image","title":"A researcher works in a cotton field in Jenkins County, Georgia, as part of a project on AI and pesticide use. Dorothy Seybold","body":"\u003Cp\u003EA researcher works in a cotton field in Jenkins County, Georgia, as part of a project on AI and pesticide use. Dorothy Seybold\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1759415309","gmt_created":"2025-10-02 14:28:29","changed":"1759415309","gmt_changed":"2025-10-02 14:28:29","alt":"A researcher works in a cotton field in Jenkins County, Georgia, as part of a project on AI and pesticide use. Dorothy Seybold","file":{"fid":"262245","name":"file-20250915-56-jv2dth1.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/02\/file-20250915-56-jv2dth1.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/02\/file-20250915-56-jv2dth1.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1517991,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/10\/02\/file-20250915-56-jv2dth1.jpg?itok=V8ZMFMfm"}}},"media_ids":["678243"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/theconversation.com\/what-happens-when-ai-comes-to-the-cotton-fields-261526","title":"Read This Article on The Conversation"}],"groups":[{"id":"658168","name":"Experts"},{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"},{"id":"1214","name":"News Room"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"660368","name":"Tech AI (Artificial Intelligence)"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"194701","name":"go-resarchnews"},{"id":"192863","name":"go-ai"}],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71911","name":"Earth and Environment"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Ch5\u003EAuthors:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/profiles\/debra-lam-2212654\u0022\u003EDebra Lam\u003C\/a\u003E, founding director of the Partnership for Inclusive Innovation, Enterprise Innovation Institute, Georgia Institute of Technology\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/profiles\/atin-adhikari-2437419\u0022\u003EAtin Adhikari\u003C\/a\u003E, professor of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Environmental Health Sciences, Georgia Southern University\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/profiles\/james-e-thomas-2437420\u0022\u003EJames E. Thomas\u003C\/a\u003E, senior lecturer in Health Policy and Community Health, Georgia Southern University\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch5\u003EMedia Contact:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShelley Wunder-Smith\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:shelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003Eshelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688956":{"#nid":"688956","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Future Focused: The 2026 Southeastern Energy Conference at Georgia Tech ","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe 2026\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/energyexpo.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESoutheastern Energy Conference\u003C\/a\u003E, Georgia Tech\u2019s annual student-led energy and sustainability conference, took place on Feb. 18. Organized by the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/energyclub.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EEnergy Club\u003C\/a\u003E at Georgia Tech, the conference welcomed more than 150 attendees, including industry leaders, policymakers, researchers, and students, featuring dynamic discussions on the future of energy. The theme, \u0022Future Focused: Advancing the Energy of Tomorrow,\u0022 highlighted the industry\u2019s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and collaboration as participants explored emerging technologies, evolving policies, and strategies shaping the energy landscape of tomorrow.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe event kicked off with a keynote address from\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.energy.gov\/ceser\/person\/alex-fitzsimmons\u0022\u003EAlex Fitzsimmons\u003C\/a\u003E, acting undersecretary of the Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response (CESER) at the U.S. Department of Energy. He shared insights into the administration\u2019s work at the intersection of cybersecurity and the rapidly evolving U.S. energy sector. The first panel of the day, \u201cEnergy Innovation,\u201d explored leaders\u2019 perspectives on organizational innovation within the industry. With Tech undergraduate\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/neil-ansu-ghosh\/\u0022\u003ENeil Ghosh\u003C\/a\u003E moderating the panel,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/roderick-jackson-b1a3381\/\u0022\u003ERoderick Jackson\u003C\/a\u003E,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/jamie-barber-0686599\/\u0022\u003EJamie Barber\u003C\/a\u003E, and\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/mark-tozzi\/\u0022\u003EMark Tozzi\u003C\/a\u003E discussed emerging energy technologies and their potential impact on the industry.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELater, the Industry Showcase featured representatives from energy companies such as GE Vernova, Cherry Street Energy, Orion, GTA, Kimley Horn, and E4E Solutions, providing valuable networking and career development opportunities for students and professionals. A panel on \u201cOvercoming Growing Pains\u201d followed, with\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/josh-stallings-a942b91a2\/\u0022\u003EJosh Stallings\u003C\/a\u003E, vice president of Power Delivery Strategy and Support at Georgia Power;\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/dan-molzahn-26001aa\/\u0022\u003EDaniel Molzahn\u003C\/a\u003E, associate professor in the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE); and\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/lisawichmannberry\/\u0022\u003ELisa Berry\u003C\/a\u003E, GE Vernova\u2019s technical director for Decarbonization and Data Centers for the Americas region. The discussion was moderated by\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/radhikasharmaga\/\u0022\u003ERadhika Sharma\u003C\/a\u003E, co-president of the Energy Club and a graduate student in ECE, and focused on current challenges facing the rapidly growing energy industry.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne of the standout moments of the conference was the Student Symposium, where 16 student researchers presented their work while competing for $1,000 in prize money sponsored by Cobb EMC. Projects ranged from residential demand management optimization studies to the challenges and viability of hydrogen combustion engines.\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/erik-barbosa-45758416b\/\u0022\u003EErik Barbosa\u003C\/a\u003E earned first place for his research on a multiscale approach to thermochemical energy storage within buildings.\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/daksh-adhikari\/\u0022\u003EDaksh Adhikari\u003C\/a\u003E received second place for examining the mitigation of flow boiling instabilities with active flow control, and\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/william-schertzer\/\u0022\u003EWilliam Schertzer\u003C\/a\u003E placed third for work using machine learning and neural networks to model anion exchange membrane degradation.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe final event of the day, \u201cScaling Emergent Energy Technologies,\u201d focused on growing the newest energy technologies within the industry. Moderated by Georgia Tech undergraduate\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/james-lovely-aa5753288\/\u0022\u003EJames Lovely\u003C\/a\u003E, the panel included\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/ldb\/\u0022\u003ELuke Bockewitz\u003C\/a\u003E, director of business development at Kinetics;\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/nian-liu-68740b7a\/\u0022\u003ENian Liu\u003C\/a\u003E, associate professor and Robert G. Miller Faculty Fellow in the School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering; and\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/tomcuthbertiii\/\u0022\u003EThomas Cuthbert\u003C\/a\u003E, chief technology officer at Emrgy. The conference closed with a keynote speech from James Marlow, president and CEO of Southface Institute, who provided a framework for thinking through innovation and tactical advice for aspiring energy innovators and leaders.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022The level of organization and vision demonstrated by the students was outstanding,\u201d Molzahn said. \u201cBy focusing on the evolving energy landscape and inviting experts from across the field, they created an event that sparked important conversations for our campus.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIt was an honor to serve as the Energy Club\u2019s 2026 conference chair and work alongside the strong energy community at Georgia Tech,\u201d said Jonathan Acree. \u201cMeaningful innovation in energy depends on collaboration, and it was truly encouraging to see such an interdisciplinary group of talented students, researchers, and industry leaders come together around the shared goal of advancing our energy future.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe conference also highlighted Georgia Tech\u2019s role as a hub for forward-thinking dialogue on global energy challenges \u2014 and the importance of collaboration and innovation in shaping the evolving energy landscape and fostering the next generation of leaders in the field.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWritten by Georgia Tech students:\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/bradenqueen\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EBraden Queen\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E, \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/orit-endalk\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EOrit\u0026nbsp;Endalk,\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/maxzhang32\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EEli Acree\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E, \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/radhikasharmaga\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003ERadhika Sharma\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe 2026\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/energyexpo.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESoutheastern Energy Conference\u003C\/a\u003E, Georgia Tech\u2019s annual student-led energy and sustainability conference, took place on Feb. 18. Organized by the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/energyclub.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EEnergy Club\u003C\/a\u003E at Georgia Tech, the conference welcomed more than 150 attendees, including industry leaders, policymakers, researchers, and students, featuring dynamic discussions on the future of energy. The theme, \u0022Future Focused: Advancing the Energy of Tomorrow,\u0022 highlighted the industry\u2019s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and collaboration as participants explored emerging technologies, evolving policies, and strategies shaping the energy landscape of tomorrow.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The 2026\u00a0Southeastern Energy Conference, Georgia Tech\u2019s annual student-led energy and sustainability conference welcomed more than 150 attendees and featured dynamic discussions on the future of energy."}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2026-03-16 16:17:05","changed_gmt":"2026-03-16 17:03:33","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, 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2026.","file":{"fid":"263826","name":"IMG_9706-LR.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/16\/IMG_9706-LR.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/16\/IMG_9706-LR.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":621893,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/16\/IMG_9706-LR.jpg?itok=aEwHVw9u"}},"679646":{"id":"679646","type":"image","title":"IMG_9691-LR.jpeg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EPoster Session at the 2026 Southeastern Energy Conference\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1773677896","gmt_created":"2026-03-16 16:18:16","changed":"1773677896","gmt_changed":"2026-03-16 16:18:16","alt":"Poster Session at the 2026 Southeastern Energy Conference","file":{"fid":"263827","name":"IMG_9691-LR.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/16\/IMG_9691-LR.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/16\/IMG_9691-LR.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":834148,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/16\/IMG_9691-LR.jpeg?itok=AT-4yTt9"}},"679647":{"id":"679647","type":"image","title":"IMG_9702-LR.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EEnergy Club Team at the Southeastern Energy Conference\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1773677896","gmt_created":"2026-03-16 16:18:16","changed":"1773677896","gmt_changed":"2026-03-16 16:18:16","alt":"Energy Club Team at the Southeastern Energy Conference","file":{"fid":"263828","name":"IMG_9702-LR.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/16\/IMG_9702-LR.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/16\/IMG_9702-LR.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":843253,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/16\/IMG_9702-LR.jpg?itok=j844Jh3G"}}},"media_ids":["679644","679648","679645","679646","679647"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/energyexpo.gatech.edu\/","title":"2026 Southeastern Energy Conference Webpage"}],"groups":[{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"134","name":"Student and Faculty"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EPriya Devarajan\u003C\/a\u003E || Communications Program Manager, Strategic Energy Institute\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688755":{"#nid":"688755","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Engineers Week Brings Georgia Tech Research to Classrooms Across the State","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMore than 6,200 high school students across Georgia tuned in for Engineers Week 2026. Through a series of online talks, Georgia Tech researchers shared a glimpse of the technologies shaping the future. \u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA national initiative held February 23\u201327, the event highlighted research spanning cybersecurity, aerospace engineering, robotics, infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing. The program virtually brought engineers into classrooms statewide, who offered online learning experiences centered on inquiry, problem solving, and design.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThis is a great collaborative effort between the College of Engineering, the Georgia Tech Manufacturing Institute (GTMI), and the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI),\u201d said Sean Mulvanity, program lead at \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gtri.gatech.edu\/outreach\/stem-at-gtri\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ESTEM@GTRI.\u003C\/a\u003E \u201cWe provided students from across the state the opportunity to interact with leaders in a variety of engineering fields.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEach day featured a different engineer discussing the real-world challenges driving their work. Cybersecurity professor \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/17433\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ESaman Zonouz\u003C\/a\u003E began the week with a talk on protecting critical digital systems that power modern life. Aerospace engineer professor \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ae.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/adam-m-steinberg\u0022\u003EAdam Steinberg\u003C\/a\u003E followed with insights into developing faster, cleaner engines for next-generation supersonic aircraft. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ae.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/juergen-rauleder\u0022\u003EJuergen Rauleder\u003C\/a\u003E, also an aerospace engineer professor, then introduced students to aerodynamics research conducted in Georgia Tech\u0027s wind tunnel \u2014 one of the largest in the United States.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELater sessions expanded the conversation across disciplines. Civil and environmental engineering professor \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ce.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/lauren-stewart\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ELauren Stewart\u003C\/a\u003E discussed designing buildings and infrastructure capable of withstanding extreme loads, while mechanical engineer professor \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.mse.gatech.edu\/people\/aaron-stebner\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EAaron Stebner\u003C\/a\u003E closed the week with his talk, \u003Cem\u003E\u201c3D Printing Titanium: Realizing the Superhero Powers of Ironman,\u201d\u003C\/em\u003E exploring advances in additive manufacturing.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThese talks show engineering isn\u2019t just theory,\u201d said \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/steven-ferguson\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ESteven Ferguson\u003C\/a\u003E, GTMI principal research scientist. \u201cStudents are hearing directly about the kinds of problems people are working on right now.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne session featured \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fin%2Faparna-srinidhi-jagannathan-10655823b%2F\u0026amp;data=05%7C02%7Cychernet3%40gatech.edu%7C5b33de3205984ef8f05408de7aeea5b4%7C482198bbae7b4b258b7a6d7f32faa083%7C1%7C0%7C639083362547434014%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C\u0026amp;sdata=MvM%2F5DS3783hgYAvqDD3Uj00PvsQot9Q1afZ3ldx1s0%3D\u0026amp;reserved=0\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EAparna Srinidhi Jagannathan\u003C\/a\u003E, a third-year biomedical engineering student and undergraduate researcher at Georgia Tech, who spoke about her research in the Exoskeleton and Prosthetic Intelligent Controls (EPIC) Lab. Jagannathan is developing a wearable biofeedback system designed to help patients with gait disorders\u003Cstrong\u003E \u003C\/strong\u003Eimprove balance and coordination while walking. \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cOne of the things I value about being an engineer is the ability to turn abstract ideas and theories into tangible devices and technologies through research and design,\u201d Jagannathan said. \u201cEngineers Week empowers students with the knowledge that they, too, can meaningfully contribute to engineering. It reminds them that they can lead projects that benefit the communities around them.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEngineers Week at Georgia Tech was presented by the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/coe.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ECollege of Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E, the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/manufacturing.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EGeorgia Tech Manufacturing Institute\u003C\/a\u003E, and the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gtri.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EGeorgia Tech Research Institute\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"A week of virtual talks opened a window into the research shaping everything from supersonic flight to wearable biofeedback devices."}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EMore than 6,200 high school students across Georgia tuned in for Engineers Week 2026, joining a series of online talks hosted by Georgia Tech that offered a glimpse into the technologies shaping the future.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"More than 6,200 high school students across Georgia tuned in for Engineers Week 2026, joining a series of online talks hosted by Georgia Tech that offered a glimpse into the technologies shaping the future. "}],"uid":"36757","created_gmt":"2026-03-05 21:55:51","changed_gmt":"2026-03-12 20:24:43","author":"ychernet3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-03-05T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-03-05T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"groups":[{"id":"155831","name":"Georgia Tech Manufacturing Institute (GTMI)"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39461","name":"Manufacturing, Trade, and Logistics"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto: ychernet3@gatech.edu\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYanet Chernet\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ECommunications Officer I\u003Cbr\u003EGeorgia Tech\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688825":{"#nid":"688825","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Charles Nimo Receives Roland Ewubare Fellowship in Societal Engagement and Impact","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech doctoral student Charles Nimo has been selected as the newest recipient of the Roland Ewubare Fellowship in Societal Engagement and Impact, a philanthropic program supporting underrepresented graduate students whose research advances community focused, socially relevant scholarship.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFunded by Roland Ewubare, a distinguished Nigerian lawyer and corporate executive, the fellowship recognizes emerging scholars whose master\u2019s or doctoral work meaningfully connects with societal engagement and impact.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe program expands opportunities for graduate researchers committed to addressing real world challenges through innovative, community centered inquiry.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENimo is a third year Ph.D. student in computer science and a graduate research assistant in the Technologies and International Development Lab led by Michael L. Best, executive director of the Institute for People and Technology and professor in both the Sam Nunn School of International Affairs and the School of Interactive Computing. He is co-advised by Irfan Essa, professor in the School of Interactive Computing.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENimo\u2019s research explores human centered natural language processing for healthcare, as well as multilingual AI systems in low resource contexts. Nimo develops tools to evaluate and improve the safety, robustness, and global inclusion of language technologies. His broader goal is to build AI systems that are fair, reliable, and effective across diverse languages and cultures, helping ensure that technological advances benefit communities often overlooked in mainstream AI development.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cI\u2019m very grateful to receive this fellowship for societal impact,\u201d Nimo said. \u201cThank you for this support and believing in the work, and I\u2019m excited to keep building research that translates into real world benefit.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENimo earned his B.S. in electrical and computer engineering from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia, and his M.S. in computer science from the University of Texas at Austin.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech doctoral student Charles Nimo has been selected as the newest recipient of the Roland Ewubare Fellowship in Societal Engagement and Impact.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech doctoral student Charles Nimo has been selected as the newest recipient of the Roland Ewubare Fellowship in Societal Engagement and Impact."}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2026-03-10 15:34:49","changed_gmt":"2026-03-10 19:50:43","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-03-10T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2026-03-10T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679558":{"id":"679558","type":"image","title":"Charles Nimo ","body":"\u003Cp\u003ECharles Nimo is a third year Ph.D. student in computer science.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1773156769","gmt_created":"2026-03-10 15:32:49","changed":"1773156840","gmt_changed":"2026-03-10 15:34:00","alt":"Charles Nimo","file":{"fid":"263733","name":"Charles-Nimo-copy-cropped-Smaller-FINAL.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/10\/Charles-Nimo-copy-cropped-Smaller-FINAL.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/10\/Charles-Nimo-copy-cropped-Smaller-FINAL.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":456125,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/10\/Charles-Nimo-copy-cropped-Smaller-FINAL.jpg?itok=qogb7bPV"}}},"media_ids":["679558"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWalter Rich\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["walter.rich@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688513":{"#nid":"688513","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Proving the Hypothesis: Kendreze Holland Becomes First Project ENGAGES Scholar to Earn Doctorate ","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAbstract\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIt was a hypothesis. I was the experiment, and the hypothesis was proven true.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECan an\u0026nbsp;inner-city student who grew up below the poverty line\u0026nbsp;earn a Ph.D. and make a career in research?\u0026nbsp;In theory, yes.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe barriers are many.\u0026nbsp;But\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/pii\/S2451929424001888\u0022\u003Eliterature\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;suggests that early exposure to\u0026nbsp;STEM and research opportunities\u0026nbsp;can increase the odds\u0026nbsp;for students in need.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor\u0026nbsp;Kendreze\u0026nbsp;Holland,\u0026nbsp;the idea of\u0026nbsp;making it to college\u0026nbsp;and\u0026nbsp;earning an advanced degree\u0026nbsp;was a hypothesis.\u0026nbsp;Sure, theoretically\u0026nbsp;it could be done\u0026nbsp;\u2014\u0026nbsp;but\u0026nbsp;in his\u0026nbsp;own home, not\u0026nbsp;everyone\u0026nbsp;had\u0026nbsp;even\u0026nbsp;made it past high school.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOften,\u0026nbsp;the\u0026nbsp;first\u0026nbsp;question\u0026nbsp;on the way to\u0026nbsp;scientific discovery\u0026nbsp;is:\u0026nbsp;What if? What if a student like Holland received the right help at the right time?\u0026nbsp;What if he\u0026nbsp;was guided\u0026nbsp;along the way by\u0026nbsp;mentors\u0026nbsp;who were leaders in their fields? What if\u0026nbsp;he was given the opportunity to develop professional skills\u0026nbsp;and make valuable connections?\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHolland asked himself: What if he could be the one to\u0026nbsp;prove the hypothesis true?\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIntroduction\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHolland grew up\u0026nbsp;in northwest\u0026nbsp;Atlanta,\u0026nbsp;one of seven children\u0026nbsp;raised by a single mother.\u0026nbsp;Being\u0026nbsp;one of so many children, most would struggle to stand out. But Holland always\u0026nbsp;sought\u0026nbsp;to be different.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cMy perpetual intention was to be less of a burden to my mother,\u201d he said. \u201cSince my mother\u2019s education limited her abilities to help with my schoolwork, I went above the call of duty to stand out in academics.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHis mother\u2019s education was cut short in ninth grade so she could raise her first child,\u0026nbsp;Holland\u2019s older sister,\u0026nbsp;and no one in his family had gone to college.\u0026nbsp;In his mind, he had\u0026nbsp;three career paths\u0026nbsp;to choose from: football, hip hop, or retail.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cStanding at a solid 5 foot 8,\u0026nbsp;the first\u0026nbsp;would have been difficult,\u201d he joked. \u201cAnd the latter two were not my calling.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJust like his mother, the course of his life changed in his ninth-grade year. For\u0026nbsp;Holland,\u0026nbsp;it began an academic journey\u0026nbsp;he never expected.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn 2012, he was attending\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/best.atlantapublicschools.us\/\u0022\u003EB.E.S.T.\u0026nbsp;Academy\u003C\/a\u003E, an all-boys\u0026nbsp;public\u0026nbsp;school for grades six through\u0026nbsp;12\u0026nbsp;focused on\u0026nbsp;business and STEM.\u0026nbsp;Biology\u0026nbsp;class\u0026nbsp;was\u0026nbsp;just another hour\u0026nbsp;waiting to pass\u0026nbsp;for\u0026nbsp;the\u0026nbsp;15-year-old\u0026nbsp;Holland,\u0026nbsp;until the day\u0026nbsp;two guest speakers from\u0026nbsp;Georgia Tech\u0026nbsp;walked into the room with \u201csome weird\u0026nbsp;apparatuses and mechanical chopsticks.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe two guests\u0026nbsp;used the equipment\u0026nbsp;\u2014\u0026nbsp;gel electrophoresis systems and pipettes\u0026nbsp;\u2014 to show the boys\u0026nbsp;what research can look like in real life.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThis experience sparked within me a drive for science, and it was the first time I realized that I wanted to, and could,\u0026nbsp;attain\u0026nbsp;an advanced scientific degree,\u201d Holland said.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe two speakers were\u0026nbsp;Manu Platt, a professor in the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/coe.gatech.edu\/schools\/biomedical-engineering\u0022\u003EWallace H.\u0026nbsp;Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;at Georgia Tech and Emory University, and Jerald Dumas, a postdoctoral researcher.\u0026nbsp;Platt and Dumas\u0026nbsp;were\u0026nbsp;there\u0026nbsp;to recruit students for a new program\u0026nbsp;called\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/projectengages.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EProject ENGAGES\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;within the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/bio\u0022\u003EParker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;(IBB).\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe program was co-founded by Platt and the late Robert M. Nerem, IBB\u2019s founding executive director, to give\u0026nbsp;students\u0026nbsp;like Holland an opportunity\u0026nbsp;to\u0026nbsp;participate\u0026nbsp;in real research projects\u0026nbsp;that would hopefully\u0026nbsp;plant a seed\u0026nbsp;in the next generation of scientists.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStudents\u0026nbsp;come from\u0026nbsp;one of eight partner schools in Atlanta. Once\u0026nbsp;accepted, they\u0026nbsp;are\u0026nbsp;connected\u0026nbsp;to a Georgia Tech graduate\u0026nbsp;student who\u0026nbsp;mentors them and\u0026nbsp;supervises their work, and\u0026nbsp;they\u0026nbsp;get paid to\u0026nbsp;work in\u0026nbsp;their assigned\u0026nbsp;lab\u0026nbsp;for\u0026nbsp;one year.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EProject ENGAGES\u0026nbsp;does more than\u0026nbsp;expose students to STEM concepts and ideas. It\u0026nbsp;equips them with the skills and knowledge to carry out their own independent research projects.\u0026nbsp;They also\u0026nbsp;have\u0026nbsp;opportunities to\u0026nbsp;establish\u0026nbsp;connections with university faculty and industry representatives who can provide career guidance and support.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMethods\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThough Holland\u0026nbsp;didn\u2019t\u0026nbsp;meet the program\u2019s age requirement\u0026nbsp;in 2012, he applied again\u0026nbsp;the next year and\u0026nbsp;was accepted.\u0026nbsp;During his junior and senior years of high\u0026nbsp;school,\u0026nbsp;he\u0026nbsp;worked\u0026nbsp;in Platt\u2019s lab, where he aided with\u0026nbsp;projects\u0026nbsp;involving proteins, cell cultures, and\u0026nbsp;antibodies.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cOver the course of those two years, the growth I saw scientifically, professionally, and in maturity, all corroborated my belief that\u0026nbsp;Kendreze\u0026nbsp;was going far, and able to push past whatever goals and obstacles he comes up against,\u201d\u0026nbsp;said Platt,\u0026nbsp;now the\u0026nbsp;director of the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nibib.nih.gov\/labs-at-nibib\/center-for-biomedical-engineering-technology-acceleration-beta\u0022\u003ECenter for Biomedical Engineering Technology Acceleration\u003C\/a\u003E housed within the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nibib.nih.gov\/\u0022\u003ENational Institute of\u0026nbsp;Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHolland\u0027s experience sparked\u0026nbsp;a love for science\u0026nbsp;and\u0026nbsp;a career-long connection with Georgia Tech.\u0026nbsp;After high school, he\u0026nbsp;graduated summa cum laude\u0026nbsp;with a degree in chemistry\u0026nbsp;from Georgia State University.\u0026nbsp;As an undergraduate, he stayed connected with Tech and with IBB as a\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/bio\/petit-undergraduate-research-scholars-program\u0022\u003EPetit Scholar\u003C\/a\u003E,\u0026nbsp;a yearlong mentorship program and research experience for top students around Atlanta.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cI really wanted to stay close to home, and I felt like everything was in my backyard,\u201d he said. \u201cThere are many people who come\u0026nbsp;here\u0026nbsp;from other places\u0026nbsp;to Tech because of the great\u0026nbsp;science that is going on.\u0026nbsp;There\u2019s\u0026nbsp;something special about Atlanta, and\u0026nbsp;I\u2019m\u0026nbsp;just getting the best of what I can from it.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHe credits his\u0026nbsp;time\u0026nbsp;in Project ENGAGES\u0026nbsp;with\u0026nbsp;giving him the confidence and resilience\u0026nbsp;to continue toward his goals.\u0026nbsp;Like many others in the program, he was a first-generation college student\u0026nbsp;with little to no\u0026nbsp;guidance\u0026nbsp;for his academic career.\u0026nbsp;The\u0026nbsp;holistic approach\u0026nbsp;of Project ENGAGES\u0026nbsp;provided\u0026nbsp;professional development opportunities and standardized test preparation\u0026nbsp;to\u0026nbsp;ready\u0026nbsp;him\u0026nbsp;for life in college and beyond.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cI knew I\u0026nbsp;wanted to go to grad school, but I didn\u2019t know I was going to do all these things,\u201d he said.\u0026nbsp;\u201cHaving that one goal sprouted a lot of side quests that just grew into something bigger.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter graduating from\u0026nbsp;Georgia State\u0026nbsp;in 2020, Holland was accepted into Georgia Tech\u2019s\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/bioengineering.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EBioengineering Graduate Program\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;as a doctoral student.\u0026nbsp;In December\u0026nbsp;2025, he became the first Project ENGAGES\u0026nbsp;alumnus\u0026nbsp;to\u0026nbsp;successfully defend his dissertation,\u0026nbsp;and\u0026nbsp;he\u0026nbsp;is expected to graduate\u0026nbsp;this spring.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/lakeita-servance\u0022\u003ELakeita\u0026nbsp;Servance\u003C\/a\u003E,\u0026nbsp;assistant\u0026nbsp;director of Outreach Initiatives at IBB, was\u0026nbsp;the program manager for Project ENGAGES when Holland was accepted\u0026nbsp;and cheered him on\u0026nbsp;more than 10 years later as he\u0026nbsp;presented his\u0026nbsp;doctoral\u0026nbsp;research.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cAs I sat in that room while he was defending his dissertation and\u0026nbsp;sharing his research with all of us, I still reflected on that boy\u0026nbsp;I saw at 16 years old,\u201d she said. \u201cIt was\u0026nbsp;this full circle moment to see him make it all the way back here.\u0026nbsp;The investment\u0026nbsp;we made over a decade ago has paid off in such a large way.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EResults\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition to being the first in his family to go to college and earn an advanced degree, Holland\u0026nbsp;received financial support from the National Science Foundation\u2019s Graduate Research Fellowship Program;\u0026nbsp;was\u0026nbsp;awarded\u0026nbsp;multiple\u0026nbsp;prestigious\u0026nbsp;fellowships, including FORD,\u0026nbsp;GEM, and Herbert P. Haley;\u0026nbsp;landed an internship\u0026nbsp;with 3M Corporate Research Materials Laboratory;\u0026nbsp;and\u0026nbsp;served as a\u0026nbsp;mentor\u0026nbsp;in the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sites.gatech.edu\/nakatani-ries\/\u0022\u003ENakatani Research and International Experience for Students\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;He has\u0026nbsp;published papers, led panel discussions,\u0026nbsp;applied\u0026nbsp;for patents, and\u0026nbsp;presented his research at national conferences.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cAll that stemmed from Project ENGAGES,\u201d he said. \u201cAnd more importantly, I applied\u0026nbsp;to be a mentor for the ENGAGES program.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHolland said some of\u0026nbsp;his\u0026nbsp;most\u0026nbsp;meaningful experiences have come from\u0026nbsp;being able to give back.\u0026nbsp;He has served as a mentor, both formally and informally,\u0026nbsp;to more than half a dozen students,\u0026nbsp;some\u0026nbsp;who\u0026nbsp;come\u0026nbsp;from backgrounds\u0026nbsp;much like his own.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cI\u0026nbsp;wanted to\u0026nbsp;give\u0026nbsp;back to the program because it poured so much into me. They were able to get me all the way to the Ph.D. level, so I knew that I could use my grind to help other students.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EConclusion\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHaving proved the hypothesis true, Holland is turning his focus to the future, considering his options in academia and corporate research while he continues to work as a postdoc at Georgia Tech.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHis research in John\u0026nbsp;Blazeck\u2019s\u0026nbsp;lab\u0026nbsp;focuses on cellular engineering using CRISPR gene editing technology\u0026nbsp;to regulate gene profiles, meaning he and other researchers can turn certain genes up and others down to affect\u0026nbsp;the way cells respond.\u0026nbsp;Though he is currently working with yeast cells, he hopes that his research will translate into mammalian cells that could have more clinical applications.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIn terms of diseases and disorders, you can use it to tune genes to help someone experiencing cancer\u0026nbsp;by helping immune cells or stopping cancer cells from dividing rapidly,\u201d he said. \u201cYou can also help other cells to survive longer, and longer cell viability means potentially a patient can survive longer.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat began as a presentation in\u0026nbsp;a\u0026nbsp;high school science class has led Holland\u0026nbsp;to a future he never expected.\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/2815\u0022\u003ETequila Harris\u003C\/a\u003E,\u0026nbsp;professor in the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EGeorge W.\u0026nbsp;Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;and\u0026nbsp;co-director of Project ENGAGES, said\u0026nbsp;his story shows others that they can do the same.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cI believe his achievements will inspire and motivate generations of students to pursue dreams that they may not have known they had.\u0026nbsp;Kendreze\u0026nbsp;Holland has fundamentally shown others that there are multiple pathways to engage in STEM and that opportunities and access to advanced degrees can\u0026nbsp;be\u0026nbsp;attained\u0026nbsp;by those willing to do the work.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHolland\u0027s story is symbolic of the ultimate goal for Project ENGAGES:\u0026nbsp;to change the lives of talented young people who may never have had the opportunity to succeed.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThat\u2019s why I was so adamant about getting my Ph.D.,\u201d he said,\u0026nbsp;\u201cto show\u0026nbsp;that one could potentially overcome what they were going through to do something extraordinary.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EProject ENGAGES is possible thanks to philanthropic support from our generous community: \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/giving.gatech.edu\/campaigns\/60129\/donations\/new?designation_id=55a493\u0026amp;\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDonate here\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EFor Kendreze Holland, the idea of making it to college and earning an advanced degree was a hypothesis. Holland asked himself: What if he could be the one to prove the hypothesis true?\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat began as a presentation in a high school science class has led Holland to a future he never expected \u2013 planning to graduate from Georgia Tech with a Ph.D. in bioengineering this spring. His story is symbolic of the ultimate goal for the Project ENGAGES program: to change the lives of talented young people who may never have had the opportunity to succeed.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"In December 2025, he became the first Project ENGAGES alumnus to successfully defend his dissertation, and he is expected to graduate this spring. "}],"uid":"36479","created_gmt":"2026-02-25 13:55:09","changed_gmt":"2026-03-09 17:59:22","author":"abowman41","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-02-25T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-02-25T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679431":{"id":"679431","type":"image","title":"Holland-Lab.jpg","body":null,"created":"1772045667","gmt_created":"2026-02-25 18:54:27","changed":"1772045667","gmt_changed":"2026-02-25 18:54:27","alt":"A man in a lab coat wearing safety goggles and gloves puts samples into a machine in a scientific lab","file":{"fid":"263594","name":"Holland-Lab.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/25\/Holland-Lab.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/25\/Holland-Lab.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1197473,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/02\/25\/Holland-Lab.jpg?itok=3WyFADtX"}}},"media_ids":["679431"],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"138","name":"Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"},{"id":"188776","name":"go-research"},{"id":"172056","name":"go-BioE"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAshlie Bowman | Communications Manager\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EParker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["ashlie.bowman@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688800":{"#nid":"688800","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Personal Resilience as a Path to Meaningful Sustainability Work","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EPeople engaged in purpose-driven work can get worn down. At Georgia Tech\u2019s 2026 Sustainability Showcase, three faculty leaders urged attendees to stop trying to do everything and instead focus on the convergence where their strengths, satisfaction, and the most urgent climate needs intersect.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat idea anchored \u201cFinding Joy and Building Resilience in Climate Action,\u201d an interactive session on day two of the showcase, hosted Feb. 9 \u2013 10 by the Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems (BBISS). Each spring, the event brings together Georgia Tech researchers, students, staff, and partners to share their work with the sustainability community. This session turned the spotlight inward, asking how people doing sustainability work can sustain themselves over the long haul. Facilitated by Rebecca Watts Hull, the session drew on an \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.ted.com\/talks\/ayana_elizabeth_johnson_how_to_find_joy_in_climate_action\u0022\u003EApril 2022 TED Talk\u003C\/a\u003E by marine biologist and policy expert Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, who lays out a practical way to \u201clean into your superpowers\u201d for being effective in purpose-driven work.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWatts Hull, assistant director of Faculty Development for Sustainability Education Initiatives in Georgia Tech\u2019s Center for Teaching and Learning, opened the discussion by explaining why she proposed the session. Many showcase events, she noted, focused on social, community, and ecological resilience. This one examined individual capacity \u2014 how people stay engaged in work that can feel frustrating, slow-moving, and emotionally draining.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJohnson\u2019s TED Talk framed the problem, describing the climate challenge as \u201cgargantuan,\u201d spanning energy, transportation, agriculture, buildings, industry, ecosystems, and culture. Rather than dwelling on dire projections, she urges people to pivot to solutions and to contribute not just as generic volunteers, but by using their particular talents.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cimg 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\u0022\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHer tool is a Venn diagram that asks three questions:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EWhat are you good at \u2014 your skills, expertise, resources, and networks?\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EWhat work needs doing \u2014 high-impact sustainability solutions, especially at the systems level?\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EWhat brings you joy or satisfaction \u2014 work that energizes rather than depletes you?\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJohnson warns against choosing work that leads to burnout and against merely validating what one is already doing, pushing instead for a fresh look at where each person can have the greatest impact. She also emphasizes implementation and argues for a \u201cleaderful\u201d movement in which many people step into leadership in different ways.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMatthew Realff, professor and David I.J. Wang Faculty Fellow in the School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, connected Johnson\u2019s framework to resilience and his 33 years at Georgia Tech. He traced the word \u201cresilience\u201d back to its Latin root, meaning \u201cto bounce back,\u201d and defined it as the ability to absorb shocks and return to an original or improved state.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor Realff, that ability depends heavily on relationships. \u201cI think of personal resiliency as coming from the networks of people I interact with \u2014 the social bonds that stretch and are strained,\u201d he said, and \u201chelp me bring myself back to my center when I\u0027m finding that life is difficult with respect to things like sustainability.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHe then walked through his own Venn diagram across teaching, research, and service. In teaching, he uses senior design courses to give engineering students real-world sustainability problems, from hydrogen liquefaction to biofuels and biochemicals. \u201cWatching students grapple with those challenges brings me joy,\u201d he said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn research, he focuses on carbon capture, including capturing CO\u2082 from flue gases and from the air. In service, he has stepped into roles he didn\u2019t initially seek, such as board chair of GreenBlue, the nonprofit behind the \u201cHow2Recycle\u201d label found on consumer packaging, and chair of standards committees that shape the environmental profile of electronics purchased by major institutions. Those roles, he acknowledged, pulled him out of his comfort zone but delivered tangible, systems-level impact.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EChristie Stewart, senior academic professional in the School of Biological Sciences, added a perspective grounded in well-being and resilience education. She oversees Georgia Tech\u2019s undergraduate wellness requirement and teaches a class called Flourishing: Strategies for Well-Being and Resilience. For years, her students designed wellness and sustainability projects, but rarely had time to carry them out within a semester.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat frustration pushed her toward community-based service learning, linking personal wellness to broader community resilience. Stewart highlighted three strengths she brings to her own Venn diagram: using well-being frameworks; taking a strengths-based approach that helps students identify what they do best; and creating psychologically safe environments where students can discuss values, disagreements, and the emotional strain of large-scale problems like climate change.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor her, the work that needs doing includes building capacity for community partners and helping students recognize that they must protect their own mental and physical health if they want to stay in the work. Her greatest satisfaction comes from seeing students discover a sense of purpose and begin to imagine themselves as future leaders who can \u201cchange culture and advocate\u201d for sustainability.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWatts Hull described how Johnson\u2019s Venn diagram helped her reconcile what she wasn\u2019t doing with what she could do best. A sociologist by training who studies social movements and change, she supports the integration of sustainability across the curriculum and teaches one course each year. In her personal life, she attends climate demonstrations, but as an introvert who dislikes large crowds, she rarely stays long and feels guilty about not doing more public-facing activism.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECompleting the diagram, she said, gave her permission to focus on teaching and movement-building \u2014 her core strengths and sources of joy. She recently led a four-week climate action course at her church and used Johnson\u2019s Venn diagram as an exercise.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWatts Hull closed the session by asking participants to sketch their own diagrams, reflect quietly for several minutes, and then share with others at their tables \u2014 a step toward aligning Georgia Tech\u2019s diverse sustainability community around the personal \u201csuperpowers\u201d that can sustain climate action over a lifetime.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThis is an opportunity to get away from what I call self-immersion,\u201d said audience member Jay Bassett, a 1985 Georgia Tech graduate and retired EPA Opportunity Zone and Smart Sector Advisor. \u201cWe have a tendency to get so isolated in what we do,\u201d and \u201cthis offers an opportunity to think beyond that and get past those boundaries and see opportunities that we don\u2019t see before because we\u2019re so self-immersed. That\u2019s an actual skill that we all ought to learn \u2014 to see the bigger picture because it may be the best part of the path forward.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EPeople engaged in purpose-driven work can get worn\u0026nbsp;down. At Georgia Tech\u2019s 2026 Sustainability Showcase, three faculty leaders urged attendees to stop trying to do everything and instead focus on the convergence where their strengths, satisfaction, and the most urgent needs intersect.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech faculty invite the campus sustainability community to find the intersection of what they do best, what they love, and where they can make the biggest climate impact."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2026-03-06 19:14:31","changed_gmt":"2026-03-09 17:43:03","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-03-06T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-03-06T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679540":{"id":"679540","type":"image","title":"Showcase_Joy_Resilience_Session","body":"\u003Cp\u003ERuthie Yow introduces (L to R) Christie Stewart, Matthew Realff, and Rebecca Watts Hull at the 2026 Sustainability Showcase.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1772824592","gmt_created":"2026-03-06 19:16:32","changed":"1772824777","gmt_changed":"2026-03-06 19:19:37","alt":"\u0022A group of people stand near large windows in a bright indoor space, with one person holding a microphone and reading from a sheet of paper. Three individuals stand together near a lectern, some holding notes or drinks. In the foreground, a table holds laptops, papers, and a drink cup. The room has light-colored floors and tall window shades that diffuse the natural light.\u0022","file":{"fid":"263713","name":"Showcase_Joy_Resilience_Session.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/06\/Showcase_Joy_Resilience_Session.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/06\/Showcase_Joy_Resilience_Session.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1011879,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/06\/Showcase_Joy_Resilience_Session.jpg?itok=8La2p7m-"}}},"media_ids":["679540"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[{"id":"42901","name":"Community"},{"id":"194836","name":"Sustainability"}],"keywords":[{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Research Communications Program Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688746":{"#nid":"688746","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Students Stretch the Future of Assistive Robotics","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ENow in its fourth year, the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/techsage.ahs.illinois.edu\/2025-stretch-robot-pitch-competition-2\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStretch Robot Pitch Competition\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E continues to evolve into one of Georgia Tech\u2019s most imaginative and human\u2011centered design challenges. Hosted by the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/techsage.ahs.illinois.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETechSAge Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E (\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cidi.gatech.edu\/research\/rerctechsage\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Epart of which\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E is located in CIDI), the competition brings together students from across the Institute to create innovative applications for Stretch \u2013 \u0026nbsp;a lightweight, open source mobile manipulator robot with reaching, sensing, and grasping capabilities. Stretch was developed by \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/hello-robot.com\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHello Robot\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E which was co\u2011founded by former Georgia Tech professor Charlie Kemp.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith its compact form factor, capable arm, and relatively affordable price, Stretch has already become a favorite among researchers looking to push the boundaries of assistive robotics. The pitch competition invites Georgia Tech students to imagine not just what the robot can do, but what it should do to meaningfully improve daily life for people aging with disabilities.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis year, teams across several disciplines\u2014from engineering, to business, to computing, and the sciences\u2014submitted video pitches outlining how their technology concept tackles real-world problems users face. The winning team earned $1,000 and, more importantly, the chance to spend a semester working with Stretch in Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/awarehome.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAware Home\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E turning their pitch into a working prototype. Sponsors included TechSAge, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ai-caring.org\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAI-CARING\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/ipat\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EInstitute for People and Technology (IPaT)\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, and Hello Robot.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst place was awarded to \u201cChef Stretch,\u201d a concept aimed at helping older adults with disabilities determine whether food has spoiled so they can prepare and consume food safely. The five-student team included Caitlin Woodward and Elizabeth Thompson (College of Engineering), Aditi Ashok (Scheller College of Business), and Michelle Gu and Vedita Sawhney (College of Sciences).\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile Chef Stretch took the top prize, the judges awarded an honorable mention to Ali Vafaeian (College of Computing) for \u201cBimanual Clothes Manipulation and Assisted Dressing\u201d with a $500 cash prize. His proposal tackles another essential activity of daily living, dressing, which can be challenging task for many individuals with mobility impairments.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cidi.gatech.edu\/feature\/stretching-future-assistive-robotics\u0022\u003ERead more about this competition and watch the winning students pitches \u0026gt;\u0026gt;\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ENow in its fourth year, the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/techsage.ahs.illinois.edu\/2025-stretch-robot-pitch-competition-2\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStretch Robot Pitch Competition\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E continues to evolve into one of Georgia Tech\u2019s most imaginative and human\u2011centered design challenges.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Now in its fourth year, the Stretch Robot Pitch Competition continues to evolve into one of Georgia Tech\u2019s most imaginative and human\u2011centered design challenges. "}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2026-03-05 18:18:47","changed_gmt":"2026-03-05 18:19:11","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-03-05T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-03-05T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679531":{"id":"679531","type":"image","title":"Chef Stretch","body":"\u003Cp\u003EMichelle Gu, Aditi Ashok, Caitlin Woodward, Elizabeth Thompson, and Vedita Sawhney pose with Stretch and their award certificates. They won $1000 and the opportunity to develop their concept in the Aware Home.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1772734436","gmt_created":"2026-03-05 18:13:56","changed":"1772734469","gmt_changed":"2026-03-05 18:14:29","alt":"Michelle Gu, Aditi Ashok, Caitlin Woodward, Elizabeth Thompson, and Vedita Sawhney pose with Stretch and their award certificates. They won $1000 and the opportunity to develop their concept in the Aware Home. ","file":{"fid":"263704","name":"chef-stretch.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/05\/chef-stretch.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/05\/chef-stretch.png","mime":"image\/png","size":1558640,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/05\/chef-stretch.png?itok=5yT5NAMp"}}},"media_ids":["679531"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688606":{"#nid":"688606","#data":{"type":"news","title":"IPaT Research Scientists Supporting Pediatric Research","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EThe\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/ipat\u0022\u003EInstitute for People and Technology\u003C\/a\u003E (IPaT) is deeply engaged in advancing pediatric research and clinical innovation through a partnership with the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ptc.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EChildren\u2019s Healthcare of Atlanta Pediatric Technology Center at Georgia Tech\u003C\/a\u003E (PTC). The center brings clinical experts from Children\u2019s together with Georgia Tech scientists and engineers to develop technological solutions to problems in the health and care of children. The PTC provides opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration to create breakthrough discoveries that enhance the lives of children and young adults in Georgia and beyond.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EIPaT is supporting research within two of PTC\u2019s\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/pedsresearch.org\/centers\/pediatric-technology-center\/pillar-leadership\u0022\u003Ethree core research pillars\u003C\/a\u003E: data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence; and patient\u2011centered care delivery. PTC\u2019s third research pillar is focused on technologies and devices. With the expertise of IPaT\u2019s research scientists, these joint efforts combine scientific expertise, clinical insight, and shared funding that are helping to transform research innovations into operational tools that directly support pediatric patient care at Children\u2019s.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIPaT is bringing two core competencies to both of these research pillars,\u201d said Maribeth Gandy Coleman, IPaT\u2019s director of research. \u201cFirst, we\u2019re advocating for and supporting the use of people-centered techniques to inform the research and co-designing the resulting system with all the stakeholders. Second, we\u2019re also making sure we can translate this research into a real return on investment for Children\u2019s. We are ensuring that what we design can be deployed in the hospital, and that it can be integrated with their existing systems and merge as seamlessly as possible with their existing workflows.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESupporting Data Science, Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence (Pillar 1)\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EPillar 1 focuses on harnessing artificial intelligence to enable more personalized and predictive pediatric care. The work aims to improve data collection infrastructure, support equitable AI practices, and build a Children\u2019s-Georgia Tech pediatric AI collaboration that integrates advanced AI tools into clinical workflows.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EClinical Deterioration Prediction\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EOne of the flagship projects within Pillar 1 involves developing machine learning models that can detect clinical deterioration in hospitalized children. The goal is to identify when a patient needs urgent escalation to the intensive care unit \u2014 faster and more accurately than traditional monitoring.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo achieve this, IPaT research scientists are:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EExtracting and securely transferring electronic health record (EHR) data from Children\u2019s clinical systems.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ETraining predictive models using that real\u2011world data.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBuilding the software infrastructure required to deploy these models inside Children\u2019s.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIntegrating model outputs directly into the EHR using Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources\u0026nbsp;communication protocols. (FHIR is an international standard for the electronic exchange of healthcare information.)\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis infrastructure is intentionally designed not just for this single project but as a repeatable, scalable framework for future AI\u2011enabled clinical tools developed through the Children\u2019s-Georgia Tech partnership.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAI-Enhanced Decision-Making for Hospital Operations\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EA second emerging project under Pillar 1 aims to address one of healthcare\u2019s most persistent operational challenges: ICU capacity management. Seasonal fluctuations, such as surges in flu or Covid\u201119 cases, can create sudden ICU demand surges and staff illnesses, which can make scheduling and staffing decisions challenging.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIPaT is building models that incorporate historical hospital activity, seasonal variation, and real\u2011time census and staffing levels to predict scheduling needs and help Children\u2019s optimize resource allocation. This research is just beginning, but holds the potential for improving both care delivery and staff well\u2011being. More importantly, IPaT is applying user-centered design and research techniques along with the engineering work to engage with Children\u2019s people and processes to ensure that these prediction and resource allocation models actually work, and that they will actually be used and useful in the Children\u2019s clinical environment.\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESupporting Patient\u2011Centered Care Delivery (Pillar 2)\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EPillar 2 seeks to improve pediatric outcomes by focusing on the \u201cwhole child\u201d \u2014 physical, psychological, social, and emotional well\u2011being \u2014 while accounting for the needs of families, caregivers, and community environments. Particular emphasis is placed on behavioral health, rural healthcare access, and chronic illness in underserved populations.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIPaT contributes to this work on two fronts:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUser Experience and Workflow Research\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EIPaT\u2019s user experience (UX) researchers conduct interviews, workflow studies, and design evaluations with Children\u2019s clinicians and staff. This human\u2011centered research helps shape the interfaces, processes, and technologies needed to deliver patient\u2011centered care in practical, usable ways. These contributions ensure that tools created through the partnership align with the realities of clinical practice.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EData Integration for Behavioral and Social Insights\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EFor Pillar 2 research,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/ipat\/sde\u0022\u003EIPaT\u2019s secure data enclave\u003C\/a\u003E enables Children\u2019s EHR data to be transferred, stored, and analyzed in a HIPAA\u2011compliant environment. Researchers are using this infrastructure to combine clinical data with voluntarily contributed social media information from consenting participants. The aim is to explore indicators of psychological well\u2011being, behavioral health trends, and early warnings related to self\u2011harm.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA Secure, Scalable Data Infrastructure to Support Both Pillars\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EThe IPaT secure data enclave provides a protected, secure environment for storing and analyzing sensitive patient information. It serves as the backbone connecting Georgia Tech researchers with Children\u2019s clinical systems. Both Pillar 1 and Pillar 2 research initiatives rely on this Georgia Tech IPaT-managed secure infrastructure to safely enable:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEHR data transfer and storage.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EMachine learning model development.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ETesting and validation workflows.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEventual operational deployment back into Children\u2019s systems.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis secure, scalable architecture is central to the shared goal of translating research into actionable clinical tools.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAccelerating Pediatric Discovery\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s partnership with Children\u2019s represents a powerful model for cross\u2011institutional innovation. By aligning IPaT\u2019s strengths in human\u2011centered design, machine learning, and secure data systems with Children\u2019s clinical expertise, IPaT is helping to build solutions that move quickly from concept to bedside.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs these projects grow, especially with the ongoing expansion of the clinical deterioration system and the launch of the AI-enhanced operations initiative, IPaT research scientists anticipate even greater opportunities to support Children\u2019s mission and improve pediatric health outcomes.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThank you to Richard Starr for providing insight about these research projects.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Institute for People and Technology (IPaT) is deeply engaged in advancing pediatric research and clinical innovation through a partnership with the Children\u2019s Healthcare of Atlanta Pediatric Technology Center at Georgia Tech (PTC).\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The Institute for People and Technology (IPaT) is deeply engaged in advancing pediatric research and clinical innovation through a partnership with the Children\u2019s Healthcare of Atlanta Pediatric Technology Center at Georgia Tech (PTC). "}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2026-02-27 19:40:01","changed_gmt":"2026-03-05 15:05:05","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-02-27T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-02-27T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679477":{"id":"679477","type":"image","title":"Photo of the joint Children\u0027s and Georgia Tech Pillar 1 team taken September 2025.","body":"\u003Cp\u003EA photo of the joint Children\u0027s and Georgia Tech Pillar 1 research team taken September 2025. Six research faculty members from IPaT are in the picture: Peter Presti, Maribeth Gandy Coleman, Clint Zeagler, Jeremy Johnson, Richard Starr, Kala Jordan and Christine Taylor, a graduate research assistant in IPaT.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1772215469","gmt_created":"2026-02-27 18:04:29","changed":"1772222909","gmt_changed":"2026-02-27 20:08:29","alt":"Photo of the joint Children\u0027s and Georgia Tech Pillar 1 team taken September 2025.","file":{"fid":"263644","name":"IMG_2185-copy3-smaller-cropped.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/27\/IMG_2185-copy3-smaller-cropped.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/27\/IMG_2185-copy3-smaller-cropped.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1659699,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/02\/27\/IMG_2185-copy3-smaller-cropped.jpg?itok=S6xXxovw"}}},"media_ids":["679477"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWalter Rich\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688680":{"#nid":"688680","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Renewable Bioproducts Institute Names Strategic Initiative Leaders to Advance Microbial Innovation and Business Integration ","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/renewablebioproducts.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ERenewable Bioproducts Institute\u003C\/a\u003E (RBI) has appointed two additional Strategic Initiative Leaders (SILs) to help shape the next phase of its research and engagement strategy: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/2842\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EJoel Kostka\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/21500\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ETitiksha Fernandes\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESILs serve on \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/renewablebioproducts.gatech.edu\/about\/people?role=62\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ERBI\u2019s leadership team\u003C\/a\u003E and play a strategic role in expanding interdisciplinary collaboration, strengthening Georgia Tech\u2019s leadership in the bioeconomy, and catalyzing new research and education initiatives across campus.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp lang=\u0022EN-US\u0022\u003E\u201cRBI\u2019s work has always been about connecting strong science and engineering to the needs of Georgia\u2019s forestry and renewable materials industries,\u201d said Carson Meredith, director of RBI. \u201cJoel and Titiksha bring leadership that strengthens both sides of that work \u2014 advancing the biological foundations of renewable systems while building the business and entrepreneurship capacity needed to translate discovery into durable impact.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAdvancing Microbial Biotechnology for the Forest Bioeconomy\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/renewablebioproducts.gatech.edu\/people\/joel-kostka\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EJoel Kostka,\u003C\/a\u003E Tom and Marie Patton Distinguished Professor and Associate Chair for Research in the School of Biological Sciences, will lead a strategic initiative focused on microbial biotechnology in renewable bioproducts. His initiative leverages microbiology and microbiome engineering in a systems approach to address woody biomass utilization, biorefining, microbial contamination in pulp and paper processing, and the development of forest and plant feedstocks.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe effort complements RBI\u2019s existing strengths in chemistry and engineering, including initiatives such as the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/renewablebioproducts.gatech.edu\/research\/center-for-renewables-based-economy-from-wood\u0022\u003ECenter for a Renewables-Based Economy from Wood (ReWOOD)\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/renewablebioproducts.gatech.edu\/research\/center-for-renewables-based-economy-from-wood\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E,\u003C\/a\u003E by bringing cutting-edge microbial science into the modernization of the forest industry.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe initiative centers on two core areas: improving biomass deconstruction and bioconversion, and engineering plant and soil microbiomes to support the development of climate-resilient biomass feedstocks.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cNatural microbiomes, those microbes that are intimately associated with plants and soils, already drive the natural cycles that break down organic matter, recycle nutrients, and help plants to grow better,\u201d said Kostka. \u201cIf we understand and engineer those systems more intentionally, we can unlock more efficient bioconversion pathways and help build a forest bioeconomy that is both productive and climate resilient.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EKostka\u2019s research studies the role of microbes in the functioning of ecosystems ranging from oceans to terrestrial subsurface environments. Through this initiative, he aims to connect that foundational microbial science to use-inspired solutions in renewable bioproducts.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBridging Business and Bioproducts\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/renewablebioproducts.gatech.edu\/people\/titiksha-fernandes\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ETitiksha Fernandes\u003C\/a\u003E will lead RBI\u2019s initiative to develop structured collaboration with the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.scheller.gatech.edu\/index.html\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EScheller College of Business\u003C\/a\u003E. Her effort will establish a strategic framework for exploring deeper RBI\u2013Scheller engagement across research, education, and entrepreneurship.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe initiative will explore integrating business training into RBI fellowship programs, engaging business graduate students in RBI research, strengthening industry partnerships, and advancing joint entrepreneurship activities that translate scientific discoveries into ventures.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cScientific innovation alone doesn\u2019t create impact,\u201d said Fernandes. \u201cWe need the strategy, entrepreneurship, and systems thinking that allow discoveries to move from the lab into markets and communities. This initiative is about building those pathways intentionally.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFernandes currently serves as extension professional for the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.scheller.gatech.edu\/centers-and-initiatives\/ray-c-anderson-center-for-sustainable-business\/drawdown\/index.html\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EDrawdown Georgia Business Compact,\u003C\/a\u003E an initiative of the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.scheller.gatech.edu\/centers-and-initiatives\/ray-c-anderson-center-for-sustainable-business\/index.html\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ERay C. Anderson Center for Sustainable Business\u003C\/a\u003E. In this role, she advances initiatives in materials circularity and food and agriculture. She holds a Ph.D. in Public Policy and is a Certified Circular Economy Manager, with experience designing sustainability and resource efficiency policy at national and state levels, including work on e-waste reform in India and circular economy implementation in the U.S.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp lang=\u0022EN-US\u0022\u003ERBI\u2019s Strategic Initiative Leaders are appointed for renewable 12-month terms and are expected to foster new interdisciplinary collaborations that extend beyond their home units. Leaders participate in shaping research directions, reviewing fellowship proposals, developing workshops and symposia, and connecting faculty, students, industry, and national laboratories.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI) has appointed two additional Strategic Initiative Leaders (SILs) to help shape the next phase of its research and engagement strategy: Joel Kostka and Titiksha Fernandes.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI) has appointed two additional Strategic Initiative Leaders (SILs) to help shape the next phase of its research and engagement strategy: Joel Kostka and Titiksha Fernandes. "}],"uid":"36757","created_gmt":"2026-03-03 19:26:26","changed_gmt":"2026-03-04 18:22:00","author":"ychernet3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-03-03T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-03-03T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679510":{"id":"679510","type":"image","title":"2sded.jpg","body":null,"created":"1772565994","gmt_created":"2026-03-03 19:26:34","changed":"1772565994","gmt_changed":"2026-03-03 19:26:34","alt":"Side-by-side photos of Joel Kostka and Titiksha Fernandes","file":{"fid":"263682","name":"2sded.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/03\/2sded.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/03\/03\/2sded.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1008966,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/03\/03\/2sded.jpg?itok=5hmBs1l4"}}},"media_ids":["679510"],"groups":[{"id":"372221","name":"Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39491","name":"Renewable Bioproducts"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto: ychernet3@gatech.edu\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYanet Chernet\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ECommunications Officer I\u003Cbr\u003EGeorgia Tech\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688531":{"#nid":"688531","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Utility Structure, Pricing, and Energy Incentive Programs","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA recent study by EPIcenter affiliates Brian An and John Kim and researchers at Georgia Tech, Iowa State University, and Clemson University examines how utility-level characteristics\u2014such as ownership structure, electricity pricing, and incentive programs\u2014shape residential electricity consumption in the Southeastern U.S. Using data from 105 electric utilities in Georgia and North Carolina, the authors analyze how governance models (investor-owned, municipal, cooperative), demographic factors, and program offerings interact to influence household energy use.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe study finds that higher electricity rates and greater shares of college-educated residents are associated with lower household consumption, while larger homes, electric heating, and higher incomes drive usage upward. Notably, electric vehicle (EV) incentive programs correlate with increased household electricity demand\u2014even after controlling for public charging infrastructure\u2014suggesting these programs effectively promote EV adoption and at-home charging. In contrast, energy efficiency (EE) and renewable energy (RE) programs show no clear relationship with consumption in multivariate models.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/2026\/02\/24\/utility-structure-pricing-and-energy-incentive-programs\/\u0022\u003ERead Full Story and listen to a related podcast on the EPIcenter Newspage\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA recent study by EPIcenter affiliates Brian An and John Kim and researchers at Georgia Tech, Iowa State University, and Clemson University examines how utility-level characteristics\u2014such as ownership structure, electricity pricing, and incentive programs\u2014shape residential electricity consumption in the Southeastern U.S. Using data from 105 electric utilities in Georgia and North Carolina, the authors analyze how governance models (investor-owned, municipal, cooperative), demographic factors, and program offerings interact to influence household energy use.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"A recent study by EPIcenter affiliates Brian An and John Kim and researchers at Georgia Tech, Iowa State University, and Clemson University examines how utility-level characteristics shape residential electricity consumption in the Southeastern U.S."}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2026-02-25 20:16:46","changed_gmt":"2026-02-25 20:24:02","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-02-24T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-02-24T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679438":{"id":"679438","type":"image","title":"UtilityStructure--Pricing-EPIcenter-02242026-AdobeStock_559085927-1024x684.jpeg","body":null,"created":"1772050633","gmt_created":"2026-02-25 20:17:13","changed":"1772050633","gmt_changed":"2026-02-25 20:17:13","alt":"Stacks of coins topped with green icons representing clean energy and sustainability.","file":{"fid":"263601","name":"UtilityStructure--Pricing-EPIcenter-02242026-AdobeStock_559085927-1024x684.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/25\/UtilityStructure--Pricing-EPIcenter-02242026-AdobeStock_559085927-1024x684.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/25\/UtilityStructure--Pricing-EPIcenter-02242026-AdobeStock_559085927-1024x684.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":76977,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/02\/25\/UtilityStructure--Pricing-EPIcenter-02242026-AdobeStock_559085927-1024x684.jpeg?itok=_PkMnlJG"}}},"media_ids":["679438"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/2026\/02\/24\/utility-structure-pricing-and-energy-incentive-programs\/","title":"Read Full Story on the EPIcenter Webpage"}],"groups":[{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"151","name":"Policy, Social Sciences, and Liberal Arts"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"39511","name":"Public Service, Leadership, and Policy"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EPriya Devarajan\u003C\/a\u003E | SEI Communications Program Manager\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["ggonzalez68@gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688526":{"#nid":"688526","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Beyond the Cost of EV Ownership and Adoption","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA recent study by EPIcenter faculty affiliates Joe F. Bozeman III (School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology) and Daniel C. Matisoff (Carter School of Public Policy, Georgia Institute of Technology), along with John D. Kim (Carter School of Public Policy, Georgia Institute of Technology) and co-authors Sanya Carley, David M. Konisky, Jeremy J. Michalek, and Destenie Nock, examines U.S. household electric vehicle (EV) ownership and adoption intent beyond upfront costs, focusing on charging access, travel behavior, housing, and demographics. The study utilizes a nationally representative survey of 2,870 households to examine how these factors shape both current EV ownership rates and consumers\u2019 intentions to purchase or lease an EV in the future.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe study finds that EV ownership remains relatively low among households with \u201cmedian\u201d characteristics \u2014 approximately 1% of household vehicles are electric \u2014 but increases substantially when households report access to community charging infrastructure. In contrast, single\u2011vehicle households and households located in states without Tesla dealerships exhibit significantly lower EV ownership rates. When examining adoption intent, the authors find that access to community and workplace charging, trust in the federal government, more liberal political ideology, younger age, and urban residence are consistently associated with higher stated interest in EV adoption. Notably, single\u2011vehicle households express significantly greater intent to adopt one in the future, despite being less likely to own an EV today. The analysis also reveals that public transit users show elevated EV adoption intent at earlier stages of consideration, suggesting potential complementarities between transit use and personal vehicle electrification.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/2026\/02\/10\/beyond-the-cost-of-ev-ownership-and-adoption\/\u0022\u003ERead Full Story and listen to a related podcast on the EPIcenter Newspage\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA recent study by EPIcenter faculty affiliates Joe F. Bozeman III (School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology) and Daniel C. Matisoff (Carter School of Public Policy, Georgia Institute of Technology), along with John D. Kim (Carter School of Public Policy, Georgia Institute of Technology) and co-authors Sanya Carley, David M. Konisky, Jeremy J. Michalek, and Destenie Nock, examines U.S. household electric vehicle (EV) ownership and adoption intent beyond upfront costs, focusing on charging access, travel behavior, housing, and demographics. The study utilizes a nationally representative survey of 2,870 households to examine how these factors shape both current EV ownership rates and consumers\u2019 intentions to purchase or lease an EV in the future.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"A recent Georgia Tech study examines U.S. household electric vehicle (EV) ownership and adoption intent beyond upfront costs, focusing on charging access, travel behavior, housing, and demographics."}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2026-02-25 20:07:56","changed_gmt":"2026-02-25 20:23:27","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-02-10T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-02-10T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679436":{"id":"679436","type":"image","title":"EPIcenterEV_Study-Feb102026AdobeStock_125980820.jpeg","body":null,"created":"1772050115","gmt_created":"2026-02-25 20:08:35","changed":"1772050115","gmt_changed":"2026-02-25 20:08:35","alt":"Row of electric vehicles parked on a street and charging from charging poles","file":{"fid":"263599","name":"EPIcenterEV_Study-Feb102026AdobeStock_125980820.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/25\/EPIcenterEV_Study-Feb102026AdobeStock_125980820.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/25\/EPIcenterEV_Study-Feb102026AdobeStock_125980820.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":295742,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/02\/25\/EPIcenterEV_Study-Feb102026AdobeStock_125980820.jpeg?itok=yU9f7DgC"}}},"media_ids":["679436"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/2026\/02\/10\/beyond-the-cost-of-ev-ownership-and-adoption\/","title":"Read Full Story on the EPIcenter Webpage"}],"groups":[{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"194607","name":"Batteries"},{"id":"131","name":"Economic Development and Policy"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"151","name":"Policy, Social Sciences, and Liberal Arts"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"194611","name":"State Impact"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"39511","name":"Public Service, Leadership, and Policy"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EPriya Devarajan\u003C\/a\u003E | SEI Communications Program Manager\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["ggonzalez68@gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688502":{"#nid":"688502","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Understanding the Data Center Building Boom ","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EWritten by: Anne Wainscott-Sargent\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs artificial intelligence (AI) drives explosive growth in data centers, communities across the U.S. are facing rising electricity costs, new industrial development, and mounting strain on an aging power grid.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt Georgia Tech, several faculty members are approaching these sustainability challenges from different but complementary angles: examining how data center policy affects local communities, modeling how AI-driven demand reshapes regional energy systems, and building tools that help the public understand the tradeoffs embedded in grid planning. Together, their work highlights how better data, thoughtful policy, and public engagement can guide more resilient and equitable decisions in an AI-powered future.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAI\u2019s Hidden Footprint: How Data Centers Reshape Communities\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAhmed Saeed studies the infrastructure most people never see. An assistant professor in the School of Computer Science and a Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems (BBISS) Faculty Fellow, Saeed focuses on how data centers \u2014 the backbone of modern AI \u2014 are built, operated, and regulated, and what their growth means for host communities.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cData centers are the infrastructure for our digital life, so more of them are necessary to keep doing what we\u2019re doing,\u201d he said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EData center energy consumption could double or triple by 2028, accounting for up to 12% of U.S. electricity use, according to a \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/escholarship.org\/uc\/item\/32d6m0d1\u0022\u003Ereport by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory\u003C\/a\u003E. U.S. spending on data center construction jumped nearly 70% between May 2023 and May 2024, according to the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/americanedgeproject.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Americas-AI-Surge-Powering-Growth-in-Every-State.pdf\u0022\u003EAmerican Edge Project\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia is an AI data center hub, ranked fourth globally, with $4.6 billion in AI-related venture capital invested across 368 deals, the American Edge Project reported. At a recent \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.cc.gatech.edu\/news\/sustainability-fellowship-supports-professors-data-center-research\u0022\u003Etown hall in DeKalb County, Georgia\u003C\/a\u003E, Saeed helped residents connect AI\u2019s promise to its local consequences. Training large AI models can require tens of thousands of graphics processing units (GPUs) running for days or weeks, driving an unprecedented wave of data center construction. AI-focused chips, he noted, can consume 10 to 14 times more power than traditional processors.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat demand often shows up as pressure on local infrastructure. Communities are increasingly concerned about electricity and water use, grid upgrades, and who ultimately pays. In Virginia, Saeed pointed to a legal dispute in which consumer advocates warned that data centers could raise electricity bills by 5% in the short term and up to 50% over time, while utilities argued those investments were inevitable and could benefit customers in the long run.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEnvironmental concerns add another layer. Saeed cited controversies over water use and backup diesel generators in states, including Georgia and Tennessee, alongside a recent Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ruling that tightened generator regulations. While diesel generators are clearly harmful, he cautioned that long-term, rigorous evidence linking data centers to regional health impacts remains limited.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESaeed\u2019s research aims to reduce those impacts directly. By optimizing how workloads are scheduled across large server fleets, his team has demonstrated power savings of 4 \u2013 12%, a meaningful gain if U.S. data centers approach projected levels of up to 12% of national electricity use by 2028.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor Saeed, data centers are akin to highways: essential to modern life, disruptive to nearby communities, and shaped by policy choices. The question, he argues, is not whether AI infrastructure should exist, but how transparently and fairly it is built.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEconomist Probes the Energy Costs of the AI Boom\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile headlines often frame AI as an energy crisis, Georgia Tech environmental and energy economist and BBISS Faculty Fellow Tony Harding is focused on measuring its real \u2014 and uneven \u2014 impacts. Harding, an assistant professor in the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School of Public Policy, uses economic modeling to examine how AI adoption affects energy use, emissions, and local communities.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/iopscience.iop.org\/article\/10.1088\/1748-9326\/ae0e3b\u0022\u003Erecent work\u003C\/a\u003E published in \u003Cem\u003EEnvironmental Research Letters\u003C\/em\u003E, Harding and his co-author analyzed how productivity gains from AI could influence national energy demand. Their findings suggest that, at a macro level, AI-related activity may increase annual U.S. energy use by about 0.03% and CO\u2082 emissions by roughly 0.02%.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThose numbers are small in the context of the overall economy,\u201d Harding said. \u201cBut the impacts are highly uneven.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat unevenness is evident in where data centers are built. While Northern Virginia remains the country\u2019s top data center hub, with 343 operational data centers, states like Georgia, which currently has 94 operational data centers, are rapidly attracting facilities due to reliable power and favorable tax policies.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHarding\u2019s latest research focuses on local effects, asking why data centers cluster in urban areas, how they influence housing markets, what happens to electricity prices, and whether they exacerbate water stress. Early evidence suggests large facilities can increase local electricity rates, contributing to public backlash and regulatory response. In Georgia, the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/psc.ga.gov\/site\/assets\/files\/8617\/media_advisory_data_centers_rule_1-23-2025.pdf\u0022\u003EPublic Service Commission\u003C\/a\u003E has begun requiring new, high power draw customers (like data centers) to cover more of the costs associated with grid expansion.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHarding\u2019s goal is to give policymakers better evidence to design incentives and guardrails. \u201cTo manage these technologies responsibly,\u201d he said, \u201cwe need a clear picture of their intended and unintended consequences.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGamifying a Strained and Aging Power Grid\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDaniel Molzahn is tackling another side of the problem: how to modernize an aging power grid under growing demand. Electricity demand is expected to rise about 25% by 2030, driven by data centers, electric vehicles, and broadscale electrification. At the same time, much of the U.S. electricity grid is nearing the end of its lifespan, with many transformers being decades old.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo make these challenges tangible, Molzahn, an associate professor in the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, developed a browser-based game with a group of students through Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/vip.gatech.edu\/frm_display\/team-listings\/entry\/1303\/\u0022\u003EVertically Integrated Projects\u003C\/a\u003E program called \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/currentcrisis.itch.io\/current-crisis\u0022\u003ECurrent Crisis\u003C\/a\u003E. Players take on the role of a utility decision-maker, balancing reliability, wildfire risk, renewable integration, and affordability.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe game grew out of Molzahn\u2019s National Science Foundation CAREER award and reflects his belief that complex systems are best understood experientially. Its initial focus is wildfire resilience, modeling how grid infrastructure can both spark and suffer damage from fires.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut resilience comes at a cost. Burying power lines, for example, reduces wildfire risk but dramatically increases expenses. Players must confront the same tradeoffs utilities face: improve reliability or keep rates low.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMolzahn hopes the game will help students and the public grapple with the realities of planning future power systems. \u201cThese choices aren\u2019t abstract,\u201d he said. \u201cThey shape affordability, resilience, and our path toward a cleaner grid.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe project now involves nearly 40 students from across campus, supported by Sustainability NEXT funding and a collaboration with Jessica Roberts, former BBISS Faculty Fellow and director of the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/tiles.cc.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ETechnology-Integrated Learning Environments (TILES) Lab\u003C\/a\u003E in the School of Interactive Computing.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cAs a learning scientist, I look at how to engage people with science and scientific data and get people having conversations they might not otherwise have,\u201d says Roberts, who hopes the seed grant helps the team determine first that they are going in the right direction and, second, how to broaden the impact.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne student, Stella Quinto Lima, a graduate research assistant in Human-Centered Computing, has made the game the focus of her doctoral thesis. Through the game, she wants players to notice their misconceptions about the power grid, energy use, and AI, and to use critical thinking to identify, question, and possibly undo those misconceptions.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u201cI hope that we can really engage adults and help them see it\u2019s not black and white. The game is not only about power grids, but how AI affects the grid, how it affects our lives, and how it will impact our future.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe team plans to expand the game\u2019s features, use it in outreach programs, and analyze player decisions as a source of data to study energy-system decision-making.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe want to change the conversation about power and power grid stability, reliability, and sustainability, Roberts said, \u201cand find a way to get this message to a larger public.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAs artificial intelligence (AI) drives explosive growth in data centers, communities across the U.S. are facing rising electricity costs, new industrial development, and mounting strain on an aging power grid.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Explosive data center growth requires research to inform policies which manage the building of this critical infrastructure."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2026-02-24 20:29:10","changed_gmt":"2026-02-25 16:43:42","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-02-24T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-02-24T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679428":{"id":"679428","type":"image","title":"Giarusso_Saeed_Molzhan_Headshots_Collage_Sized","body":null,"created":"1772037433","gmt_created":"2026-02-25 16:37:13","changed":"1772037615","gmt_changed":"2026-02-25 16:40:15","alt":"Three men\u0027s individual portrait-style photos are arranged side by side, each showing a person from the shoulders up. The individuals wear collared shirts and appear in different lighting settings, including a dark background, a neutral studio backdrop, and a bright white background.","file":{"fid":"263591","name":"Giarusso_Saeed_Molzhan_Headshots_Collage_Sized.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/25\/Giarusso_Saeed_Molzhan_Headshots_Collage_Sized.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/25\/Giarusso_Saeed_Molzhan_Headshots_Collage_Sized.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":872348,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/02\/25\/Giarusso_Saeed_Molzhan_Headshots_Collage_Sized.jpg?itok=TPizgOZr"}}},"media_ids":["679428"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"660398","name":"Sustainability Hub"}],"categories":[{"id":"194606","name":"Artificial Intelligence"},{"id":"153","name":"Computer Science\/Information Technology and Security"},{"id":"131","name":"Economic Development and Policy"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"194611","name":"State Impact"},{"id":"194836","name":"Sustainability"}],"keywords":[{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Research Communications Program Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688378":{"#nid":"688378","#data":{"type":"news","title":"2026 BBISS Sustainability Showcase Recap: Resilience Is About Systems","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EWritten by: Shweta Ram and Seungho Lee\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat does it mean to design systems that endure even after major disruptions? This question framed the 2026 Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems (BBISS) Sustainability Showcase, where conversations over two days spanned the Georgia coast, wildfire modeling, AI data centers, infrastructure, community engagement, and the joy of working for a more sustainable and resilient world. Across disciplines and scales, a unifying theme emerged: resilience is not a single solution. It is a systems-level challenge requiring integration across science and technology, policy, communities, and human experience.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFrom Coastlines to Communities\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe showcase opened with a keynote from President Emeritus G. Wayne Clough on wildlife management and resiliency along Georgia\u2019s coast. The conversation that followed between Clough and BBISS Executive Director Beril Toktay highlighted the interconnection between public policy, wilderness conservation, community leadership, and scientific research. The session highlighted not only the urgency of protecting fragile ecosystems, but also that resilience works best when it is community-focused and community-driven.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESubsequent panels continued this systemic perspective. Sessions on community engagement, biotechnology-derived, climate-resilient plants, the flood resilience of Georgia coastal communities, wildfire prediction and prevention, and infrastructure resilience analytics all emphasized that resilience depends on the synthesis of many disciplines.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAcross sessions, researchers emphasized that infrastructure resilience must include governance frameworks informed by good science, community engagement based on trust, and sustained collaboration that seeks to constantly improve the science, policy, and stakeholder relationships. The researchers demonstrated that they understand their role to be greater than merely modeling risk, but as collaborators who translate research into practical solutions that communities can adopt, maintain, and trust.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAI Data Centers: A New Resilience Frontier\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDay two shifted attention to data centers, which are emerging as a critical resilience frontier.\u0026nbsp;As artificial intelligence systems scale rapidly, so does the infrastructure that powers them, as well as the growing realization that digital systems are physical systems. Conversations examined the feedback loops that play a significant role in determining environmental impacts, such as chip architecture, AI workloads, data center sustainability, appropriate AI usage, and who makes the decisions on data center infrastructure development.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne of the most fascinating sessions came from Alexandria Smith, assistant professor in the School of Music at Georgia Tech. She presented an artistic yet algorithmic composition that sonified data from AI data centers. Through translating kilowatt-hour usage and interconnection data into immersive soundscapes, she reframed data centers not as static input-output machines, but as adaptive, living systems. Drawing inspiration from \u003Cem\u003EPhysarum polycephalum\u003C\/em\u003E, a slime mold without a brain or nervous system known for its innate problem-solving abilities, she invites the listener to imagine infrastructure that senses, adapts, and self-optimizes.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECampus as a Living Laboratory\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn her session, Professor Jennifer Chirico, associate vice president of Sustainability, highlighted Georgia Tech\u2019s 2024 Climate Action Plan, focusing on building energy efficiency, renewable integration, materials management, and mobility transitions. The plan frames the Georgia Tech campus as a test bed for resilience strategies \u2014 an ecosystem where research, operations, and policy intersect. Chirico highlighted several examples where the alignment between research and implementation was essential in moving projects from modeling to pilot projects to sustained institutional change.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFinding Joy in Climate Action\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERebecca Watts Hull, Matthew Realff, and Christie Stewart led an interactive discussion inspired by Ayana Elizabeth Johnson\u2019s framework for accelerating long-term climate action. Participants were asked three simple questions: What are you good at? What work needs doing? What brings you joy? Sustainability and climate research are fields often defined by serious urgency, crisis narratives, and burnout. This session offered a personal framework for resilience where emotional sustainability, professional fulfillment, and joy matter just as much as the motivation to drive a mission ever forward.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBuilding a Shared Vision\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Sustainability Showcase concluded with a facilitated visioning session led by Kristin Janacek, associate director for Interdisciplinary Research Impact, and Beril Toktay. In small groups, leaders, researchers, and community members worked to define what resilience looks like for them.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter the conversations, several themes emerged:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EResilience must move from research to practical and community-based solutions to sustained action.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ENetworks create opportunity but require long-term stewardship to endure.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EChoosing the right metrics to measure resilience will galvanize efforts to strengthen it.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECommunity capacity is at least as important as built infrastructure.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOver two days, it became clear that Georgia Tech is not approaching resilience as a narrow technical problem. It is approaching it as a systems challenge \u2014 one that spans coastlines, campuses, disciplines, data centers, the Appalachian Mountains, data models, the arts, and human relationships. Designing systems that endure requires more than innovation. It requires collaboration, stewardship, and a shared commitment to long-term impact. The conversations launched at this year\u2019s BBISS Sustainability Showcase laid the foundation for continued coordination and ambitious action in the months ahead.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe 2026 Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems (BBISS) Sustainability Showcase was held recently in the Scholars Event Theater in the Price Gilbert Library. Two days of conversations spanned the Georgia coast, wildfire modeling, AI data centers, infrastructure, community engagement, and the joy of working for a more sustainable and resilient world.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Across disciplines and scales, a unifying theme emerged: resilience is not a single solution. It is a systems-level challenge requiring integration across science and technology, policy, communities, and human experience."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2026-02-18 22:33:59","changed_gmt":"2026-02-18 22:38:36","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-02-18T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-02-18T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679363":{"id":"679363","type":"image","title":"Showcase_cropped.jpg","body":null,"created":"1771454051","gmt_created":"2026-02-18 22:34:11","changed":"1771454051","gmt_changed":"2026-02-18 22:34:11","alt":"A view inside the Scholars Event Theater of a session of the Sustainability Showcase. A man speaks to a crowd while presenting slides on a large projection screen.","file":{"fid":"263513","name":"Showcase_cropped.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/18\/Showcase_cropped.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/18\/Showcase_cropped.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":915573,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/02\/18\/Showcase_cropped.jpg?itok=JyP4R8WN"}}},"media_ids":["679363"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"660398","name":"Sustainability Hub"}],"categories":[{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"129","name":"Institute and Campus"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"133","name":"Special Events and Guest Speakers"},{"id":"134","name":"Student and Faculty"},{"id":"194836","name":"Sustainability"}],"keywords":[{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Research Communications Program Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688369":{"#nid":"688369","#data":{"type":"news","title":"The Future of Healing: Smart Bandage Could Transform Diabetic Wound Care and Beyond","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWhile most people don\u2019t think twice about a cut or scrape, for those with diabetes, every wound is a potential threat that requires vigilant care.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDiabetic foot ulcers, for example, are slow to heal and can increase the risk of infection, hospitalization, and even amputation.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo address this critical challenge, researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) and the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) have developed a sensor designed to monitor chronic wounds in real-time. Embedded directly into a bandage, this flexible, low-cost device could transform wound management for diabetic patients and other critical applications \u2014 such as providing direct treatment to soldiers on the battlefield or managing chronic wounds in elderly populations and patients with limited healthcare access \u2014 by reducing invasive bandage changes and ensuring timely medical intervention.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cFor diabetic patients with foot ulcers, long-term monitoring and care are essential,\u201d said GTRI Principal Research Engineer and Project Lead Judy Song. \u201cWe were inspired by the success of wearable glucose monitors to develop a compact, affordable sensor tailored to wound care.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis project was supported by GTRI\u2019s Independent Research and Development (IRAD) program between 2022-2025 and reflects the strength of interdisciplinary collaboration across Georgia Tech. Researchers from three out of GTRI\u2019s eight laboratories developed the sensor with experts from the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, the H. Milton Stewart School of Industrial and Systems Engineering and the Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering at Tech and Emory University.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAbout \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.hopkinsmedicine.org\/health\/conditions-and-diseases\/diabetes\/foot-ulcers\u0022\u003Eone in four\u003C\/a\u003E people with diabetes will develop a foot ulcer at some point in their lives, making it one of the leading causes of foot amputations. For these patients, nerve damage and poor blood flow hinder the body\u2019s natural healing process and allow wounds to linger and worsen.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDuring the initial phases of their research, the team noted that nitric oxide (NO) had been previously identified as a key biomarker for wound health due to its central role in the healing process. Nitric oxide improves blood flow, reduces inflammation, promotes tissue growth and fights infection. By tracking nitric oxide levels in wounds, clinicians could determine whether a wound is improving or detect early signs of trouble.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022Nitric oxide plays a fascinating, almost paradoxical, role in wound healing,\u201d said GTRI Senior Research Engineer Victoria Razin, who is co-leading the project. \u201cIt\u2019s essential for processes like blood flow and tissue repair, but can also signal when something is going wrong.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt the core of the smart bandage is a flexible sensor powered by a three-electrode system capable of detecting changes in nitric oxide. The team used advanced Aerosol Jet\u00ae printing techniques to fabricate the sensor, significantly reducing production costs from thousands of dollars to just a few dollars per unit and making the design more affordable and scalable.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cTypically, prototyping these sensors can cost thousands of dollars, but our approach brought costs down dramatically,\u201d said Chuck Zhang, the Eugene C. Gwaltney, Jr. Chair and Professor in ISYE and a program director at the National Science Foundation (NSF), who oversaw sensor fabrication for this project. \u201cLower costs let us iterate quickly and deliver something that could have real healthcare impact.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo test the sensor\u2019s accuracy, the team conducted extensive laboratory studies in both biological and simulated wound conditions.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn one set of experiments, endothelial cell cultures were used to create \u201cwounds\u201d by scraping the cell layers. As the cells migrated to repair the gap, nitric oxide production increased, and the sensor successfully tracked these changes in real-time. Additional fluid tests using blood plasma and red blood cells demonstrated that the sensor could reliably detect nitric oxide in a variety of conditions that closely mimic real-world wound environments.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese experiments confirmed that the sensor can identify the fluctuations in nitric oxide associated with different phases of wound healing.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELab testing was led by Dr. Wilbur Lam, a professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering and at Emory University School of Medicine, with support from Kirby Fibben, a biomedical engineering Ph.D. student at Tech.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022There\u2019s a significant clinical need for real time, minimally invasive sensor technologies that detect nitric oxide,\u201d said Dr. Lam. \u201cWhile we\u2019re starting with wound healing, there\u2019s multiple other applications for vascular, hematologic, and pulmonary diseases as well.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe next step in the project is integrating the sensor into a functional wearable device. The team is combining the sensor with a miniaturized potentiostat (MicroPS) \u2013 a small electronic device that measures chemical signals \u2013 along with flexible electronic components and a system to transmit data to a mobile app.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe MicroPS, designed by the GTRI research team, led by GTRI Research Engineer Curtis Mulady, enables compact electrochemical measurements and the wireless platform transmits nitric oxide readings from the bandage to a mobile app via Bluetooth. The app uploads the data to a cloud platform, giving clinicians the ability to remotely monitor wound progress in real time. This system could reduce the need for frequent in-person checkups, enabling earlier interventions and improving outcomes for patients.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFuture iterations of the bandage aim to include \u201cclosed-loop\u201d systems capable of both monitoring and treating wounds, said GTRI\u2019s Song. For example, sensors could trigger a response, like releasing therapeutic agents or antimicrobials directly to the wound, when abnormalities are detected.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe researchers are also exploring commercialization pathways, including partnerships with medical device companies or the formation of a startup.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThis sensor meets a real need for early detection of infection and to evaluate wound healing, and I believe it could have significant commercial success,\u201d said Peter Hesketh, a professor in the School of Mechanical Engineering who led sensor design and performance testing.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOther contributors to this project from GTRI include Mulady, Cora Weidner, Maxwell Blanchard, Rachel Erbrick and Christopher Heist. Zhaonan \u201cZeke\u201d Liu, a postdoctoral fellow in ISYE, assisted with sensor fabrication, while Rizky Ilhamsyah, a graduate research assistant in the School of Mechanical Engineering, contributed to sensor design and performance testing.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWriter: Anna Akins\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003EPhotos: Sean McNeil\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003EGTRI Communications\u003Cbr\u003EGeorgia Tech Research Institute\u003Cbr\u003EAtlanta, Georgia USA\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor more information, please contact \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:gtri.media@gtri.gatech.edu\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Egtri.media@gtri.gatech.edu\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo learn more about GTRI, visit: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/gtri.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGeorgia Tech Research Institute | GTRI\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGTRI and Georgia Tech have developed a smart bandage that could transform wound care for diabetic patients, battlefield soldiers, and others by enabling real-time insights and reducing invasive bandage changes for timely treatment.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"GTRI and Georgia Tech have developed a smart bandage that could transform wound care for diabetic patients, battlefield soldiers, and others by enabling real-time insights and reducing invasive bandage changes for timely treatment."}],"uid":"35874","created_gmt":"2026-02-18 19:06:21","changed_gmt":"2026-02-18 19:18:25","author":"Anna Akins","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-02-18T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-02-18T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679351":{"id":"679351","type":"image","title":"2026_0108_image_ATAS_wound-healing-sensor_23.JPG","body":null,"created":"1771439806","gmt_created":"2026-02-18 18:36:46","changed":"1771439806","gmt_changed":"2026-02-18 18:36:46","alt":"A photo of some of the researchers leading the project written about. ","file":{"fid":"263501","name":"2026_0108_image_ATAS_wound-healing-sensor_23.JPG","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/18\/2026_0108_image_ATAS_wound-healing-sensor_23.JPG","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/18\/2026_0108_image_ATAS_wound-healing-sensor_23.JPG","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":14672403,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/02\/18\/2026_0108_image_ATAS_wound-healing-sensor_23.JPG?itok=oXM8Z-Ko"}},"679350":{"id":"679350","type":"image","title":"2026_0108_image_ATAS_wound-healing-sensor_30.JPG","body":null,"created":"1771439636","gmt_created":"2026-02-18 18:33:56","changed":"1771439636","gmt_changed":"2026-02-18 18:33:56","alt":"A photo of some of the researchers leading the project written about. ","file":{"fid":"263500","name":"2026_0108_image_ATAS_wound-healing-sensor_30.JPG","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/18\/2026_0108_image_ATAS_wound-healing-sensor_30_0.JPG","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/18\/2026_0108_image_ATAS_wound-healing-sensor_30_0.JPG","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":15655217,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/02\/18\/2026_0108_image_ATAS_wound-healing-sensor_30_0.JPG?itok=IMk9L6R1"}},"679348":{"id":"679348","type":"image","title":"2026_0108_image_ATAS_wound-healing-sensor_13.JPG","body":null,"created":"1771439373","gmt_created":"2026-02-18 18:29:33","changed":"1771439373","gmt_changed":"2026-02-18 18:29:33","alt":"A photo of a Georgia Tech graduate student operating the Aerosol Jet\u00ae printer to fabricate the sensor. ","file":{"fid":"263498","name":"2026_0108_image_ATAS_wound-healing-sensor_13.JPG","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/18\/2026_0108_image_ATAS_wound-healing-sensor_13.JPG","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/18\/2026_0108_image_ATAS_wound-healing-sensor_13.JPG","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":16282934,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/02\/18\/2026_0108_image_ATAS_wound-healing-sensor_13.JPG?itok=1OcSDjG3"}},"679347":{"id":"679347","type":"image","title":"2026_0108_image_ATAS_wound-healing-sensor_04.JPG","body":"\u003Cp\u003EGTRI and Georgia Tech\u0027s smart bandage could revolutionize wound care by enabling real-time insights on healing and reducing invasive bandage changes.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1771439244","gmt_created":"2026-02-18 18:27:24","changed":"1771439244","gmt_changed":"2026-02-18 18:27:24","alt":"A close-up of the Aerosol Jet printer as it designs a sensor prototype. ","file":{"fid":"263497","name":"2026_0108_image_ATAS_wound-healing-sensor_04.JPG","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/18\/2026_0108_image_ATAS_wound-healing-sensor_04_1.JPG","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/18\/2026_0108_image_ATAS_wound-healing-sensor_04_1.JPG","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":10790154,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/02\/18\/2026_0108_image_ATAS_wound-healing-sensor_04_1.JPG?itok=LJKojKRi"}}},"media_ids":["679351","679350","679348","679347"],"groups":[{"id":"1276","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI)"}],"categories":[{"id":"138","name":"Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics"},{"id":"194685","name":"Manufacturing"},{"id":"194610","name":"National Interests\/National Security"}],"keywords":[{"id":"179693","name":"biomedical sensors"},{"id":"192132","name":"improving human condition"},{"id":"543","name":"National Security"},{"id":"94241","name":"diabetes treatments"},{"id":"12463","name":"Wound Healing"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"},{"id":"39451","name":"Electronics and Nanotechnology"},{"id":"193653","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute"},{"id":"39461","name":"Manufacturing, Trade, and Logistics"},{"id":"39481","name":"National Security"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EFor more information, please contact \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:gtri.media@gtri.gatech.edu\u0022\u003Egtri.media@gtri.gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EWriter: Anna Akins (anna.akins@gtri.gatech.edu).\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688066":{"#nid":"688066","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Leanne West Named 2026 Innovator of the Year in Pediatric Health","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/2937\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ELeanne West\u003C\/a\u003E, chief engineer of pediatric technologies at Georgia Tech and a national leader in pediatric health innovation, has been honored as a 2026 Innovator of the Year in Pediatric Health by\u202fthe \u003Cem\u003EAtlanta Business Chronicle\u003C\/em\u003E\u202fand selected as one of\u202f\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.titan100.biz\/2026-georgia-titan-100\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ETitan CEO\u2019s 2026 Georgia Titan 100 Honorees\u003C\/a\u003E. These recognitions celebrate West\u2019s leadership and impact in pediatric health innovation at both the local and national level.\u202fIn January, West was also named chief research and innovation officer at Shriners Children\u2019s, a role that expands her longstanding commitment to pediatric innovation.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor more than a decade, West has been instrumental in the partnership between Georgia Tech and Children\u2019s Healthcare of Atlanta, working through the Pediatric Technology Center (PTC) to translate clinical needs into engineered solutions for children. In this role, she has worked alongside Children\u2019s clinicians, nurses, and researchers to identify unmet needs, form multidisciplinary teams, and guide projects from early concepts through prototyping, validation, funding, and regulatory pathways. The Children\u2019s Healthcare of Atlanta PTC established Atlanta as a nationally recognized hub for pediatric technology innovation enabling clinician-driven research, accelerating translational projects, and fostering a culture in which engineering solutions are shaped directly by real clinical experience.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn 2019,\u202fWest began building a relationship with Shriners, working to understand their most pressing clinical needs. She then connected clinicians with researchers at Georgia Tech, Emory University, and Kennesaw State University to foster collaborations focused on real-world clinical challenges. She also supported teams with promising prototypes by helping them navigate national funding opportunities and pathways at the Federal Drug Administration (FDA), accelerating the transition from lab discoveries to patient care.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOver time, this steady engagement evolved into a strong research partnership. In June 2025, Shriners announced they are joining the robust pediatric innovation ecosystem in Atlanta by establishing the\u202f\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gatech.edu\/news\/2025\/07\/03\/shriners-childrens-establish-research-institute-science-square\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EShriners Children\u2019s Research Institute\u003C\/a\u003E\u202f(SCRI). SCRI will be co-located with Georgia Tech as the anchor tenant at Science Square. This investment will be transformational for the future of pediatric research and innovation in the state of Georgia.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWhat excites me most is what we can accomplish together when we combine our strengths to align around a children-first mindset to improve the healthcare of children everywhere,\u201d said West. \u201cKids will benefit in ways no one organization could achieve alone.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWest\u2019s leadership in pediatric innovation doesn\u2019t stop there. In November 2025, she consolidated three major gatherings into the first International Pediatric Healthcare Innovation Summit,\u202fcombining the Pediatric Innovation Day, the International Society for Pediatric Innovation\u2019s (iSPI) biennial PEDS2040 event, and the joint meeting of the FDA-funded Pediatric Device Consortia. The Summit highlighted the work of Children\u2019s Healthcare of Atlanta, bringing together more than 150 representatives from children\u2019s hospitals, startups, venture capitalists, clinicians, patients, and leaders from across the Georgia innovation ecosystem, strengthening the region\u2019s global presence in pediatric health innovation.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs president of the International Children\u2019s Advisory Network (iCAN), West continues to elevate the voices of young people with chronic and rare conditions and their caregivers. Under her leadership, iCAN partners with industry, regulators, and the FDA to ensure pediatric patients are included in device and drug development, clinical trials, healthcare education, and regulatory conversations. She also champions opportunities that train and inspire youth and early career professionals to pursue roles across healthcare and life sciences \u2014 from clinicians and innovators to public health leaders and patient advocates.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWest served as an invited speaker at the 2025 World Health Organization\u2019s World Children\u2019s Health Day on the Importance of Clinical Trials for the Safety of Children, and at the FDA\u2019s meeting on the Implementation of the Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Act and Pediatric Research Equity Act. She continues to contribute nationally through service on the Medical Device Innovation Consortium\u2019s (MDIC) NEST executive committee to advance use of real-world evidence in regulatory submissions, particularly for pediatric devices, and the MDIC Patient Value committee. In addition, she serves on the iSPI executive team, the Patient Focused Medicines Development board, the Pediatric Trials Network steering committee, and as a judge for MedTech Innovator.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWest\u2019s awards and new role reflect the cumulative impact of more than a decade of leadership, partnership-building, and translational work across the worldwide pediatric ecosystem. West and her fellow honorees will be officially recognized at the 2026 Health Care Champion Awards on March 19 and at the Titan 100 Awards on May 7.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThis recognition celebrates West\u2019s leadership and impact in pediatric health innovation at both the local and national level.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"This recognition celebrates West\u2019s leadership and impact in pediatric health innovation at both the local and national level."}],"uid":"34760","created_gmt":"2026-02-06 13:07:47","changed_gmt":"2026-02-18 19:04:26","author":"Laurie Haigh","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-02-06T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-02-06T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679212":{"id":"679212","type":"image","title":"Leanne West","body":null,"created":"1770398827","gmt_created":"2026-02-06 17:27:07","changed":"1770398857","gmt_changed":"2026-02-06 17:27:37","alt":"Leanne West","file":{"fid":"263344","name":"Leanne-West-Article.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/06\/Leanne-West-Article.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/06\/Leanne-West-Article.png","mime":"image\/png","size":614238,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/02\/06\/Leanne-West-Article.png?itok=e73deBxO"}}},"media_ids":["679212"],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:laurie.haigh@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003ELaurie Haigh\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EInstitute Communications\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688362":{"#nid":"688362","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Partners with RMS Aerospace to Advance Autonomous UAV Technology","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Georgia Institute of Technology\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/rotorcraft.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EVertical Lift Research Center of Excellence\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E (VLRCOE) and RMS Aerospace have entered into a strategic partnership to develop an AI-enabled unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for the U.S. Army and federal government. \u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERMS is an engineering firm highly specialized in aerial and maritime combat systems, with offices in Texas and Georgia. This partnership combines VLRCOE\u2019s strengths in rotorcraft aeromechanics and advanced configurations with RMS\u2019 operational defense and applied systems engineering expertise to address a critical need for the U.S. Army.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe military has phased out or retired other drone vehicles, including the MQ-1 Gray Eagle, RQ-7 Shadow, and OH-58 Kiowa Warrior. Deploying a new AI-powered UAV can take over the intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions typically flown by those older UAVs.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ae.gatech.edu\/news\/2026\/02\/georgia-tech-partners-rms-aerospace-advance-autonomous-uav-technology\u0022\u003ERead Full Story on the AE Webpage\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Georgia Institute of Technology\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/rotorcraft.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EVertical Lift Research Center of Excellence\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E (VLRCOE) and RMS Aerospace have entered into a strategic partnership to develop an AI-enabled unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for the U.S. Army and federal government. \u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"e-Scout, is a first-of-its-kind AI-enabled tactical drone designed to address critical gaps in U.S. military support. "}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2026-02-18 16:45:43","changed_gmt":"2026-02-18 16:45:43","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-02-10T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-02-10T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/ae.gatech.edu\/news\/2026\/02\/georgia-tech-partners-rms-aerospace-advance-autonomous-uav-technology","title":"Read Full Story on the AE Webpage"}],"groups":[{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"136","name":"Aerospace"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"147","name":"Military Technology"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"194612","name":"Workforce Development"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EKelsey Gulledge || AE Communications Manager\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688283":{"#nid":"688283","#data":{"type":"news","title":"From Concept to Prototype: How Georgia Tech Students Are Shaping a Sustainable Energy Future","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/hack.energyclub.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EEnergyHack@GT\u003C\/a\u003E, Georgia Tech\u2019s second annual student-run energy and sustainability hackathon, took place over the weekend of Jan. 23 \u2013 25, 2026. Organized by the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/energyclub.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EEnergy Club at Georgia Tech\u003C\/a\u003E, the hackathon\u2019s mission was to unite passionate students, tackle critical challenges in the energy industry, and foster innovation and collaboration.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOver the course of 36 hours, participants collaborated in teams to brainstorm, design, and prototype projects that promote sustainable practices based on diverse problem statements, addressing this year\u2019s tracks: \u003Cstrong\u003Erenewables; electrification \u0026amp; mobility; and smart grid.\u003C\/strong\u003E These themes targeted urgent issues, from balancing renewable energy supply and demand to safeguarding infrastructure against cyber threats and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Despite the arrival of a winter storm and the hackathon shifting to a fully virtual format, students persevered and produced top-tier projects, which were evaluated by a panel of judges.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe event kicked off with an engaging opening ceremony featuring inspiring keynote speeches that set the tone for the hackathon\u2019s ambitious objectives. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/spotlight-ann-dunkin-sei-distinguished-external-fellow\u0022\u003EAnn Dunkin\u003C\/a\u003E, Distinguished External Fellow at Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/energy.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EStrategic Energy Institute\u003C\/a\u003E (SEI), served as the first of these keynotes, presenting her experiences as chief information officer for the U.S. Department of Energy. She gave participants, whether newcomers or veterans in the energy space, diverse problems to tackle, ranging from cybersecurity risks in substations to climate concerns in the age of artificial intelligence. Dunkin emphasized that no matter the challenge, a strong team can always develop innovative solutions.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cI was impressed by the quality and completeness of the solutions that the students created over about 40 hours,\u201d said Dunkin. \u0022Students created real solutions that meet market needs, and they conveyed an incredible amount of information in the three minutes they had to present their solutions.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDespite the switch to a virtual format, participants could still talk to mentors throughout the event. These mentors included a Google lead, startup CEOs, Ph.D. researchers, and other professionals with decades of experience in the energy industry. Mentors provided feedback on participants\u2019 ideas and guided them to think more deeply about the problems they chose. The various workshops also provided participants with a chance to dig deep into specific topics.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/michaelklevy\/\u0022\u003EMichael Levy\u003C\/a\u003E, U.S. utilities lead at global consulting firm \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.baringa.com\/en\/\u0022\u003EBaringa\u003C\/a\u003E, presented his workshop on using data and modeling to shape utility decisions, policy, and regulatory strategy. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gevernova.com\/\u0022\u003EGE Vernova\u003C\/a\u003E representatives presented \u201cThe Energy of Change,\u201d an interactive workshop featuring climate simulations and team challenges to explore the trade-offs between cost, grid capacity, and carbon impact in the real world. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/mlh.io\/\u0022\u003EMajor League Hacking\u003C\/a\u003E provided guides on GitHub Copilot and Google AI Studio. The final workshop, \u201cOrg Efficiency in Early Startups,\u201d was led by \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/rhunterharris\/\u0022\u003EHunter Harris\u003C\/a\u003E from the technology incubator complex \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/atlantatechvillage.com\/\u0022\u003EAtlanta Tech Village\u003C\/a\u003E. Harris taught participants what to prioritize in an early startup, including how to build a management structure and find the right strategy for attracting customers.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/troy-rice\/\u0022\u003ETroy Rice\u003C\/a\u003E, vice president and general manager of Florida Power and Light under NextEra Energy, gave a keynote speech on utility business models and how to set yourself apart in a large industry. Rice discussed his experience, which began as a Tech graduate from the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.isye.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EH. Milton Stewart School of Industrial and Systems Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E. After learning about NextEra\u2019s business model, he eventually created and taught an internal class called \u201cHow NextEra Makes Money.\u201d Rice used this story to explain the importance of becoming an expert in knowledge that others in your company overlook. He also discussed the future of energy generation, emphasizing the growth of renewable energy in utility portfolios and often-overlooked potential career opportunities.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe energy and creativity culminated in the Project Expo, where 22 innovative solutions were showcased. Representatives from the Strategic Energy Institute, Microsoft, NextEra Energy, GE Vernova, and Georgia Tech professors judged projects, offering insights and feedback.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe closing ceremony celebrated the participants\u2019 achievements and the event highlights, featuring \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/emily-a-morris\/\u0022\u003EEmily Morris\u003C\/a\u003E, founder and CEO of \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/emrgy.com\/\u0022\u003EEmrgy\u003C\/a\u003E, as the final keynote speaker. Morris shared insights from her experience as a technology startup founder in the energy sector, discussing the unique challenges of navigating a risk-averse industry. She encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to start by envisioning their future press release to clarify their end goal and avoid getting lost in immediate challenges. Morris emphasized the importance of leveraging your network, whether your Georgia Tech connections or hometown community, regardless of whether you pursue academia, industry, or the startup world.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith more than 110 registered participants, 22 project submissions, and leaders from some of the biggest energy and tech companies, EnergyHack@GT served as a platform for innovation and learning, showcasing the potential of student-led initiatives in shaping the future of energy and sustainability. Awards were presented to the top three projects for their creativity and impact, with the winning teams receiving cash prizes provided by the startup \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/tractian.com\/en\u0022\u003ETractian\u003C\/a\u003E:\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBest Overall Hack: AppliScan\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESecond Place: TeraWatt\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThird Place: WattsUp\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETake a look at all the projects submitted: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/energyhack-gt-26.devpost.com\/project-gallery.\u0022\u003Ehttps:\/\/energyhack-gt-26.devpost.com\/project-gallery\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWritten by Georgia Tech students: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/bradenqueen\/\u0022\u003EBraden Queen\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/linkedin.com\/in\/orit-endalk-725b61325\u0022\u003EOrit Endalk\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/radhikasharmaga\/\u0022\u003ERadhika Sharma\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/hack.energyclub.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEnergyHack@GT\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, Georgia Tech\u2019s second annual student-run energy and sustainability hackathon, took place over the weekend of Jan. 23\u0026nbsp;\u2013 25, 2026. Organized by the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/energyclub.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EEnergy Club at Georgia Tech\u003C\/a\u003E, the hackathon\u2019s mission was to unite passionate students, tackle critical challenges in the energy industry, and foster innovation and collaboration.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOver the course of 36 hours, participants collaborated in teams to brainstorm, design, and prototype projects that promote sustainable practices based on diverse problem statements, addressing this year\u2019s tracks: \u003Cstrong\u003Erenewables\u003C\/strong\u003E; \u003Cstrong\u003Eelectrification \u0026amp; mobility\u003C\/strong\u003E; and \u003Cstrong\u003Esmart grid\u003C\/strong\u003E. These themes targeted urgent issues, from balancing renewable energy supply and demand to safeguarding infrastructure against cyber threats and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Despite the arrival of a winter storm and the hackathon shifting to a fully virtual format, students persevered and produced top-tier projects, which were evaluated by a panel of judges.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"EnergyHack@GT, Georgia Tech\u2019s second annual student-run energy and sustainability hackathon, took place over the weekend of Jan. 23 \u2013 25, 2026. "}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2026-02-16 19:47:39","changed_gmt":"2026-02-18 00:53:20","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-02-16T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-02-16T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679297":{"id":"679297","type":"image","title":"EnergyClubLeadershipTeam.jpeg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EEnergy Club Team\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1771271270","gmt_created":"2026-02-16 19:47:50","changed":"1771271270","gmt_changed":"2026-02-16 19:47:50","alt":"Energy Club Team on the Hackathon Day","file":{"fid":"263439","name":"EnergyClubLeadershipTeam.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/16\/EnergyClubLeadershipTeam.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/16\/EnergyClubLeadershipTeam.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":3141261,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/02\/16\/EnergyClubLeadershipTeam.jpeg?itok=MyWYw0tD"}},"679299":{"id":"679299","type":"image","title":"TeamsWorking.jpeg","body":null,"created":"1771271336","gmt_created":"2026-02-16 19:48:56","changed":"1771271336","gmt_changed":"2026-02-16 19:48:56","alt":"Hackathon Team Members Busy at Work","file":{"fid":"263441","name":"TeamsWorking.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/16\/TeamsWorking.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/16\/TeamsWorking.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":349906,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/02\/16\/TeamsWorking.jpeg?itok=S0Kc6yj-"}},"679298":{"id":"679298","type":"image","title":"Judges.jpeg","body":null,"created":"1771271336","gmt_created":"2026-02-16 19:48:56","changed":"1771271336","gmt_changed":"2026-02-16 19:48:56","alt":"EnergyHack@GT 2026 Judges","file":{"fid":"263440","name":"Judges.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/16\/Judges.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/16\/Judges.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":106682,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/02\/16\/Judges.jpeg?itok=vzc63_Eu"}},"679300":{"id":"679300","type":"image","title":"Teamsworking2.jpeg","body":null,"created":"1771271336","gmt_created":"2026-02-16 19:48:56","changed":"1771271336","gmt_changed":"2026-02-16 19:48:56","alt":"EnergyHack@GT Teams at work","file":{"fid":"263442","name":"Teamsworking2.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/16\/Teamsworking2.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/16\/Teamsworking2.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":358794,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/02\/16\/Teamsworking2.jpeg?itok=1lj-KMSl"}},"679301":{"id":"679301","type":"image","title":"WinningTeam.jpeg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EEnergyHack@GT 2026 Winning Team\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1771271336","gmt_created":"2026-02-16 19:48:56","changed":"1771271336","gmt_changed":"2026-02-16 19:48:56","alt":"Winners of EnergyHack@GT 2026","file":{"fid":"263443","name":"WinningTeam.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/16\/WinningTeam.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/16\/WinningTeam.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":77205,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/02\/16\/WinningTeam.jpeg?itok=05BjMDDP"}}},"media_ids":["679297","679299","679298","679300","679301"],"groups":[{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"134","name":"Student and Faculty"},{"id":"193158","name":"Student Competition Winners (academic, innovation, and research)"},{"id":"8862","name":"Student Research"},{"id":"194612","name":"Workforce Development"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto: priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EPriya Devarajan\u003C\/a\u003E || SEI Communications Program Manager\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWritten by Georgia Tech students: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/bradenqueen\/\u0022\u003EBraden Queen\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/linkedin.com\/in\/orit-endalk-725b61325\u0022\u003EOrit Endalk\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/radhikasharmaga\/\u0022\u003ERadhika Sharma\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688211":{"#nid":"688211","#data":{"type":"news","title":"2026 Awardees Announced for Regenerative Engineering and Medicine Center Collaborative Seed Grant ","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdvancing the frontiers of regenerative medicine means more than pushing scientific boundaries \u2014 it means improving and extending human life. The Regenerative Engineering and Medicine Center (\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.regenerativeengineeringandmedicine.com\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EREM\u003C\/a\u003E) is a partnership with \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EGeorgia Tech\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.emory.edu\/home\/index.html\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EEmory University\u003C\/a\u003E, and the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.uga.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EUniversity of Georgia\u003C\/a\u003E (UGA) that supports this mission through inter-institutional collaborations in research in regenerative medicine.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESince 2010, competitive peer-reviewed seed grants have been awarded annually to interdisciplinary teams with representation from at least two of the three institutions, leading to clinical trials, licensed technologies, start-up companies, and external funding for additional research. The Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/bio\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EIBB\u003C\/a\u003E) is excited to announce the 2026 REM Collaborative Seed Grant awardees: Melissa Kemp (Georgia Tech) and Rabindra Tirouvanziam (Emory); Yang Liu (UGA) and Yong Teng (Emory); and Steven Stice (UGA) and Zhexing Wen (Emory).\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EKemp and Tirouvanziam were awarded funding for their proposal, \u201cPredicting Personalized Extracellular Vesicle (EV) Responses for Directed Myeloid\u2011Targeted Immunotherapy.\u201d Their project combines computer modeling and lab\u2011grown lung tissue to better understand how immune cells communicate during lung infections and inflammation in different people. This research could help scientists design more precise, patient\u2011specific therapies for respiratory diseases, potentially improving treatments for conditions ranging from viral infections to chronic inflammation.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022We are grateful for the support from REM that allows us to extend our labs into new, interdisciplinary research,\u201d Kemp said. \u201cThis pilot project will allow us to develop and experimentally validate multicellular models of the lung environment. Our goal is to use our platforms to test potential therapeutics that operate by controlling communication between cell types.\u0022\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIt is wonderful to be supported by REM for this collaboration between Georgia Tech and Emory labs,\u201d Tirouvanziam agreed. \u201cWe hope to turn this pilot into a large extramural project with a focus on novel immunotherapy.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELiu and Teng were awarded funding for their proposal, \u201cAI\u2011Guided Profiling of Migratory Cancer Stem Cell Communication in Head and Neck Cancer.\u201d\u0026nbsp; Their project aims to uncover how the most aggressive cancer stem cells move and \u201ctalk\u201d to nearby immune and tissue cells, using advanced microfluidic tools and artificial intelligence to study how these cells help cancer spread and resist treatment.\u0026nbsp; Understanding these hidden communication pathways could lead to earlier detection of dangerous cancer cell types and inspire new therapies that prevent recurrence and improve survival for patients with head and neck cancer.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe combine microfluidic tools with artificial intelligence to monitor individual cancer cells in action and study how they interact with the immune microenvironment \u2014 capturing behaviors that are missed in bulk experiments and shedding light on how aggressive cancer cells escape therapy,\u201d Liu said of the project.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStice and Wen were awarded funding for their application, \u201cUse of Alzheimer\u2019s Disease Organoids to Assess Mesenchymal Stromal Cell\u2013Derived Extracellular Vesicles Mechanism of Action.\u201d\u0026nbsp; Their project uses lab\u2011grown human brain organoids to study how tiny therapeutic particles called extracellular vesicles that are released by stem cells might reduce brain inflammation and protect neurons affected by Alzheimer\u2019s disease.\u0026nbsp; Revealing how these vesicles work at a molecular level could help advance new treatments that go beyond symptom management and move toward slowing or preventing Alzheimer\u2019s progression.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cExtracellular vesicles (EVs) are used in the body to communicate with cells around an injury and are known to repair brain tissue in Alzheimer\u2019s animal models,\u201d Stice said.\u0026nbsp; \u201cUnderstanding the signaling mechanisms used by EVs in Alzheimer\u2019s brain organoids will directly lead to better EV manufacturing processes and potency for neurodegenerative diseases, and ultimately better therapies.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis year\u2019s funded work illustrates how collaboration across institutions accelerates discoveries. Together, these teams are pushing healing technologies closer to real\u2011world impact, where they can make a tangible difference for patients affected by serious illness.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003EThe 2026 Regenerative Engineering and Medicine (REM) Collaborative Seed Grants have been awarded to three interdisciplinary research teams from Georgia Tech, Emory University, and the University of Georgia, supporting innovative projects in personalized immunotherapy, cancer metastasis, and Alzheimer\u2019s disease. Together, these collaborations advance the frontiers of regenerative medicine and accelerate the development of next\u2011generation therapies with the potential to transform patient care.\u003C\/div\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The 2026 awards support three cross\u2011institutional teams advancing innovative research in personalized immunotherapy, cancer stem cell communication, and therapies for Alzheimer\u2019s disease. "}],"uid":"36479","created_gmt":"2026-02-11 21:18:14","changed_gmt":"2026-02-11 21:26:17","author":"abowman41","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-02-11T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-02-11T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679264":{"id":"679264","type":"image","title":"cancer-technologies.jpeg","body":null,"created":"1770845087","gmt_created":"2026-02-11 21:24:47","changed":"1770845087","gmt_changed":"2026-02-11 21:24:47","alt":"Illustration of cancer cells, with a highlighted tumor cell in the center targeted by a digital crosshair.","file":{"fid":"263397","name":"cancer-technologies.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/11\/cancer-technologies.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/11\/cancer-technologies.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":8956181,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/02\/11\/cancer-technologies.jpeg?itok=SCsWPN9q"}}},"media_ids":["679264"],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"138","name":"Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAshlie Bowman | Communications Program Manager\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EParker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["ashlie.bowman@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686337":{"#nid":"686337","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Hosts Annual Summit Devoted to Pediatric Health Innovation","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EImagine a world where pediatric gastrointestinal disease could be diagnosed by swallowing a capsule-sized camera, where heart defects could be corrected by biodegradable implants, and where ADHD could be diagnosed through virtual reality. Georgia Tech and its partners are helping bring these world-changing ideas to life.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn Nov. 5 \u2013 6, Georgia Tech hosted the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.ispi4kids.org\/phis2025\/\u0022\u003EPediatric Healthcare Innovation Summit 2025\u003C\/a\u003E (PHIS), a one-of-a-kind event that brought champions of children\u2019s health together to share knowledge, facilitate collaborative initiatives, and accelerate medical innovation. The summit was co-presented by the Georgia Tech \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/pediatrics.research.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EPediatric Innovation Network\u003C\/a\u003E (PIN), the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.ispi4kids.org\/about\/\u0022\u003EInternational Society for Pediatric Innovation\u003C\/a\u003E (ISPI), and the FDA-funded \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/industry\/medical-products-rare-diseases-and-conditions\/pediatric-device-consortia-grants-program\u0022\u003EPediatric Device Consortia\u003C\/a\u003E (PDC).\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe event included a tour of the new \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.choa.org\/locations\/arthur-m-blank-hospital\u0022\u003EArthur M. Blank Hospital\u003C\/a\u003E, technology showcases, workshops, panel discussions, a poster session, and a pitch competition where companies were awarded funding from the Pediatric Device Consortia.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cGeorgia Tech is committed to advancing medicine, but in particular pediatric medicine, which is normally underfunded compared to adult healthcare,\u201d Georgia Tech President \u00c1ngel Cabrera said. \u201cWe are committed to playing our part, and we\u0027re doing that in partnership with the best organizations, combining our engineering skills with clinical partners who understand the most important needs of children.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECabrera was a guest speaker for the event, which took place at two locations across campus: the newly opened \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/realestate.gatech.edu\/science-square\u0022\u003EScience Square\u003C\/a\u003E and the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/studentcenter.gatech.edu\/historic-academy-medicine\u0022\u003EHistoric Academy of Medicine\u003C\/a\u003E. He emphasized that championing causes such as pediatric healthcare innovation not only aligns with \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/strategicplan.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s mission\u003C\/a\u003E, but also with the vision surrounding the new infrastructure being built across campus.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe\u0027re committed to turning our city and our neighborhood into a hub of innovation, and the area of life sciences is one of those areas that we are supporting \u2014 including our new Science Square neighborhood, which is devoted to precisely this,\u201d he said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThough industry events happen every year, what makes PHIS unique is its goal of uniting not only clinicians and healthcare administrators, but also researchers, investors, and entrepreneurs. \u0026nbsp;Attendees are united around a shared goal of solving systemic problems and, ultimately, saving and improving the lives of children. Julia Kubanek, Georgia Tech\u2019s Vice President for \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/interdisciplinary-research\u0022\u003EInterdisciplinary Research\u003C\/a\u003E, said that this collaborative approach provides a unique opportunity to progress ideas and technologies that impact the industry.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cParticularly in the pediatric space, the market is relatively small. When you have a specialized pediatric technology, it\u0027s sometimes difficult to get the resources to advance that into clinical trials and into products that can go to market,\u201d she said. \u201cThis environment that the summit creates is a supportive one for solving those problems and advancing life-saving research.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile this was the third year that the event featured a pitch competition, it was the first year that winners were awarded monetary prizes. By bringing startups and investors together, the PHIS plays a vital role in getting impactful research from conceptual to consumer ready. This year\u2019s winners included: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/luminoah.com\/\u0022\u003ELuminoah\u003C\/a\u003E in first place, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.rhaeos.com\/\u0022\u003ERhaeos\u003C\/a\u003E in second, and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.acqumenmedical.com\/\u0022\u003EAcQumen Medical\u003C\/a\u003E in third.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThough the event does encourage friendly competition, the ultimate goal remains to improve the lives of children and their families through collaboration, thought leadership, and innovation.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cOur north star is taking care of children,\u201d Anthony Chang, founder of ISPI, said in his opening remarks. \u201cI think we underestimate how much we learn together. I look at our jobs not as jobs but as a special calling \u2014 taking care of children.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition to PIN, ISPI, and PDC, the event was sponsored by Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/corporate.gatech.edu\/?utm_source=research\u0026amp;utm_medium=website\u0026amp;utm_id=092023\u0022\u003EOffice of Corporate Engagement\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.shrinerschildrens.org\/en\u0022\u003EShriner\u2019s Children\u2019s Research Institute\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.choa.org\/\u0022\u003EChildren\u2019s Healthcare of Atlanta\u003C\/a\u003E, the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/georgia.org\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia Department of Economic Development\u003C\/a\u003E, the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/gra.org\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia Research Alliance\u003C\/a\u003E, and the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.icanresearch.org\/\u0022\u003EInternational Children\u2019s Advisory Network\u003C\/a\u003E, among others.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EOn Nov. 5 \u2013 6, Georgia Tech hosted the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.ispi4kids.org\/phis2025\/\u0022\u003EPediatric Healthcare Innovation Summit 2025\u003C\/a\u003E (PHIS), a one-of-a-kind event that brought champions of children\u2019s health together to share knowledge, facilitate collaborative initiatives, and accelerate medical innovation. The summit was co-presented by the Georgia Tech \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/pediatrics.research.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EPediatric Innovation Network\u003C\/a\u003E (PIN), the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.ispi4kids.org\/about\/\u0022\u003EInternational Society for Pediatric Innovation\u003C\/a\u003E (ISPI), and the FDA-funded \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/industry\/medical-products-rare-diseases-and-conditions\/pediatric-device-consortia-grants-program\u0022\u003EPediatric Device Consortia\u003C\/a\u003E (PDC).\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The Pediatric Healthcare Innovation Summit 2025 convened experts, entrepreneurs, and clinicians to accelerate breakthrough technologies and collaborative solutions aimed at transforming pediatric care."}],"uid":"36479","created_gmt":"2025-11-10 23:39:49","changed_gmt":"2026-02-11 19:33:13","author":"abowman41","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-11-10T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-11-10T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678590":{"id":"678590","type":"image","title":"20251106_Healthcare-Summit-Event_Social-Media-13.jpg","body":null,"created":"1762818046","gmt_created":"2025-11-10 23:40:46","changed":"1762818046","gmt_changed":"2025-11-10 23:40:46","alt":"President \u00c1ngel Cabrera of Georgia Tech stands at a podium and delivers a speech.","file":{"fid":"262645","name":"20251106_Healthcare-Summit-Event_Social-Media-13.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/10\/20251106_Healthcare-Summit-Event_Social-Media-13.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/10\/20251106_Healthcare-Summit-Event_Social-Media-13.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1306762,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/10\/20251106_Healthcare-Summit-Event_Social-Media-13.jpg?itok=GllnmzPt"}}},"media_ids":["678590"],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"138","name":"Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAshlie Bowman\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EResearch Communications Program Manager\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["ashlie.bowman@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688055":{"#nid":"688055","#data":{"type":"news","title":"SEI Initiative Lead Profile: Jennifer Chirico","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/jennifer-chirico\u0022\u003EJennifer Chirico\u003C\/a\u003E leads the energy and infrastructure initiative at Georgia Tech\u2019s\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.research.gatech.edu\/energy\u0022\u003EStrategic Energy Institute\u003C\/a\u003E. She is a longtime Yellow Jacket, bringing more than 25 years of sustainability experience as the inaugural associate vice president of Sustainability at Georgia Tech. In this role, she oversees the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sustain.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EOffice of Sustainability\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;and works across the Institute on emissions reductions, clean energy, water management, circular economy, sustainable technology, and strategy.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EChirico led the development and publication of the Institute\u2019s first\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sustain.gatech.edu\/climate-action-plan\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EClimate Action Plan\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;and co-led Tech\u2019s sustainability plan,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sustain.gatech.edu\/sustainability-next-plan\/\u0022\u003ESustainability Next\u003C\/a\u003E. She is LEED Green Associate (Leed GA) accredited and holds certifications in the Carbon Disclosure Project, the Global Reporting Initiative, WaterSense, climate action planning, and Home Energy Survey Professional.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShe holds a Ph.D. in public policy from Georgia Tech, a master\u2019s in public health with a major in environmental health, and a bachelor\u2019s degree in management from Georgia Tech. She has published books and written numerous chapters on sustainability related to systems thinking, net zero strategies, adaptive management, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals on leadership for the collective well-being.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBelow is a brief Q\u0026amp;A with Chirico in which she discusses her focus areas and how her work at Georgia Tech influences the energy and infrastructure initiative here.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat is your field of expertise, and at what point in your life did you first become interested in this area?\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMy field of expertise is sustainability, with a focus on the intersection of environmental, social, and economic systems. Although I began my career in finance, I discovered my passion for sustainability during a year I spent working abroad in New Zealand in 2000. That experience opened my eyes to the importance of balancing economic development with environmental stewardship and social responsibility. When I returned to the United States, I pursued a master\u2019s degree in environmental health, followed by a Ph.D. in environmental policy. Over the past 25 years, I\u2019ve dedicated my career to advancing sustainability and creating meaningful impacts. I continue to be inspired by the tangible, positive results that emerge when organizations integrate sustainability principles into their decision-making.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat questions or challenges sparked your current work at Georgia Tech? What are the big issues facing the campus infrastructure right now as it relates to energy?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne of the most pressing challenges today is strengthening resilience for our infrastructure, well-being, and natural resources. As our environment continues to change, the ability to both mitigate impacts and adapt effectively is essential to our success. In my work, I am committed to advancing a healthier, safer, and more sustainable campus. Much of my work focuses on planning, reporting, and guiding efforts to build a stable, reliable, and clean energy infrastructure. A major part of this involves balancing firm energy sources with intermittent renewable sources in a way that ensures both reliability and sustainability. Georgia Tech has already made meaningful progress by installing over 1 megawatt of solar capacity and piloting the Stryten battery storage system. These projects demonstrate what is possible. We still have a long way to go to reduce our emissions and scale clean energy solutions across campus. Continuing to strengthen our energy resilience and expand renewable integration will be critical to meeting our long\u2011term goals.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat interests you the most about leading the energy and infrastructure initiative? Why is your initiative important to Georgia Tech\u2019s energy goals?\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat interests me most is the opportunity to collaborate with some of the nation\u2019s top energy researchers to identify the most resilient, scalable, and forward\u2011thinking energy solutions for our campus. I\u2019m particularly passionate about bridging the gap between research and operations to support turning innovative work into tangible, real\u2011world applications that strengthen Georgia Tech\u2019s infrastructure. Building strong partnerships across academics, operations, and industry is central to this effort. When these groups work together, we can accelerate progress, pilot new technologies, and create a living-learning campus that demonstrates what a resilient, low\u2011carbon future can look like.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat are the broader regional, global, and social benefits of the energy and infrastructure initiative at Georgia Tech?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt creates benefits that reach far beyond our campus. By implementing clean, resilient energy systems, we contribute to regional progress in the Southeast. Our campus can serve as a model and test bed, demonstrating scalable solutions and sharing best practices with peer institutions, local governments, and industry partners. Globally, our research and operational innovations support the broader transition to cleaner, more reliable energy systems. And socially, these efforts promote healthier communities, reduce environmental burdens, and help prepare a skilled workforce for the rapidly growing energy sector.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat are your hobbies?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMy favorite hobbies are hiking, reading, yoga, and paddleboarding. I also love spending time in nature and with family and friends.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/jennifer-chirico\u0022\u003EJennifer Chirico\u003C\/a\u003E leads the energy and infrastructure initiative at Georgia Tech\u2019s\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.research.gatech.edu\/energy\u0022\u003EStrategic Energy Institute\u003C\/a\u003E. She is a longtime Yellow Jacket, bringing more than 25 years of sustainability experience as the inaugural associate vice president of Sustainability at Georgia Tech. In this role, she oversees the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sustain.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EOffice of Sustainability\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;and works across the Institute on emissions reductions, clean energy, water management, circular economy, sustainable technology, and strategy.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis is a brief Q\u0026amp;A with Chirico in which she discusses her focus areas and how her work at Georgia Tech influences the energy and infrastructure initiative here.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"A brief Q\u0026A with Jennifer Chirico, who leads the energy and infrastructure initiative at Georgia Tech\u2019s Strategic Energy Institute. "}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2026-02-05 20:54:20","changed_gmt":"2026-02-05 20:55:40","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-02-05T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-02-05T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679201":{"id":"679201","type":"image","title":"Jennifer Chirico","body":null,"created":"1770324628","gmt_created":"2026-02-05 20:50:28","changed":"1770324677","gmt_changed":"2026-02-05 20:51:17","alt":"Jennifer Chirico","file":{"fid":"263332","name":"JenniferChirico23-R10406-P45-006.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/05\/JenniferChirico23-R10406-P45-006.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/05\/JenniferChirico23-R10406-P45-006.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":805166,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/02\/05\/JenniferChirico23-R10406-P45-006.jpeg?itok=ls1dH7Fk"}}},"media_ids":["679201"],"groups":[{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"142","name":"City Planning, Transportation, and Urban Growth"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"129","name":"Institute and Campus"},{"id":"132","name":"Institute Leadership"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EPriya Devarajan\u003C\/a\u003E || SEI Communications Program Manager\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688002":{"#nid":"688002","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Meet the Expert: Marilyn Brown","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EModeling how the U.S. can meet changing energy needs \u2014 today and tomorrow\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAn illustrious career focused on understanding the nuances of energy policy through analytics has shaped the career of Marilyn Brown, the Regents \u0026amp; Brook Byers Professor of Sustainable Systems at the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School of Public Policy at Georgia Tech.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe oil shortages of the 1970s galvanized Marilyn Brown to focus her graduate research on ways to improve energy security and affordability. This focus launched an impactful career for Brown, currently a Regents \u0026amp; Brook Byers Professor of Sustainable Systems at the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School of Public Policy at Georgia Tech.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlong the way she was an Associate Professor of Geography at the University of Illinois, a two-term Presidentially appointed regulator of the Tennessee Valley Authority, and the Energy Engineering Division Director and Program Manager of Oak Ridge National Laboratory\u2019s research on energy efficiency, renewable energy, and the electric grid.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOver the years, Brown has authored seven books, 350 publications, and contributed to the 2007 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) assessment reports for which the IPCC shared the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELeading local climate impact efforts\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInterested in the physical sciences and mathematics early on, Brown worked on understanding the \u201cdiffusion\u201d of innovation: how advances propagate in the energy field.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHer current projects focus on both local and national climate-related challenges. This research has been enriched by surveys of energy service providers, utility regulators, manufacturers, consumers, and low-income households.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnderstanding the role of influencers and perceived risks and paybacks, helps optimize energy policies and programs. With this premise in mind, Brown has explored the consequences of high energy bills on households living on the edge. She led the first nationwide evaluation of the world\u2019s largest low-income energy efficiency initiative, the Weatherization Assistance Program. The results documented the magnitude of the problem of inefficient housing nationwide, and the particularly high energy burden of low-income households in the South.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/2026\/02\/03\/meet-the-expert-marilyn-brown\/\u0022\u003EFull Story on the EPIcenter Newspage.\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAn illustrious career focused on understanding the nuances of energy policy through analytics has shaped the career of Marilyn Brown, the Regents \u0026amp; Brook Byers Professor of Sustainable Systems at the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School of Public Policy at Georgia Tech.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe oil shortages of the 1970s galvanized Marilyn Brown to focus her graduate research on ways to improve energy security and affordability. This focus launched an impactful career for Brown, currently a Regents \u0026amp; Brook Byers Professor of Sustainable Systems at the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School of Public Policy at Georgia Tech.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"An illustrious career focused on understanding the nuances of energy policy through analytics has shaped the career of Marilyn Brown, the Regents \u0026 Brook Byers Professor of Sustainable Systems at the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School of Public Policy."}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2026-02-03 19:13:46","changed_gmt":"2026-02-03 19:30:27","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-02-03T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-02-03T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679180":{"id":"679180","type":"image","title":"Marilyn-A-Brown-DSC_2963-copy300px.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EMarilyn Brown\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1770146898","gmt_created":"2026-02-03 19:28:18","changed":"1770146898","gmt_changed":"2026-02-03 19:28:18","alt":"Marilyn Brown","file":{"fid":"263309","name":"Marilyn-A-Brown-DSC_2963-copy300px.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/03\/Marilyn-A-Brown-DSC_2963-copy300px.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/03\/Marilyn-A-Brown-DSC_2963-copy300px.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":79664,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/02\/03\/Marilyn-A-Brown-DSC_2963-copy300px.jpg?itok=JC_qH5RF"}}},"media_ids":["679180"],"groups":[{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"142","name":"City Planning, Transportation, and Urban Growth"},{"id":"131","name":"Economic Development and Policy"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"151","name":"Policy, Social Sciences, and Liberal Arts"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"39511","name":"Public Service, Leadership, and Policy"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:epicenter@gatech.edu\u0022\u003EGil Gonzalez\u003C\/a\u003E || EPIcenter Program Coordinator\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["epicenter@gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"688000":{"#nid":"688000","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Small Modular Reactors and Smart Energy Cities","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA new study by Georgia Tech researchers Brian An, Daein Kang, John Kim, and Moe Kyaw Thu analyzes how national governments describe Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in official energy policy documents. Using natural language processing (NLP) on more than 800,000 words extracted from 66 national and international energy plans, the authors assess whether SMRs are framed as narrowly technical innovations or as contributors to broader urban energy transitions. Their findings show that SMR discourse remains dominated by references to reactor design, regulation, and safety, while themes central to modern energy planning\u2014such as resilience, urban\u2013rural equity, cogeneration, and diversified energy services\u2014appear inconsistently and with low prominence.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPerhaps most notably, governance\u2011related concepts such as community engagement, siting justice, and public trust are largely absent from the dominant keyword clusters revealed through TF\u2011IDF and LDA analysis. This pattern contrasts with long\u2011standing evidence that nuclear deployment outcomes hinge on procedural fairness, transparency, and risk communication. As cities face rising electricity demand, climate\u2011driven outages, growing data center loads, and new siting pressures, the lack of urban\u2011relevant framing in national SMR strategies may limit the technology\u2019s ability to support equitable and resilient energy systems.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe authors conclude that viewing SMRs chiefly as engineering solutions risks missing their potential contributions to multi\u2011service energy portfolios and resilience planning. They argue that meaningful integration of SMRs into smart energy cities will require a broader policy architecture\u2014one that explicitly addresses governance, cross\u2011sectoral applications, spatial justice, and local participation. Expanding future analyses to include state, provincial, and municipal policies will also be essential, given that these levels of government oversee land use, community engagement, and emergency management\u2014factors central to nuclear siting and energy justice.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo learn more and listen to a podcast on the paper, please \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/2026\/01\/27\/small-modular-reactors-and-smart-energy-cities\/\u0022\u003Evisit the EPIcenter Newspage\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA new study by Georgia Tech researchers Brian An, Daein Kang, John Kim, and Moe Kyaw Thu analyzes how national governments describe Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in official energy policy documents. Using natural language processing (NLP) on more than 800,000 words extracted from 66 national and international energy plans, the authors assess whether SMRs are framed as narrowly technical innovations or as contributors to broader urban energy transitions. Their findings show that SMR discourse remains dominated by references to reactor design, regulation, and safety, while themes central to modern energy planning\u2014such as resilience, urban\u2013rural equity, cogeneration, and diversified energy services\u2014appear inconsistently and with low prominence.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"A new study by Georgia Tech researchers Brian An, Daein Kang, John Kim, and Moe Kyaw Thu analyzes how national governments describe Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in official energy policy documents. "}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2026-02-03 18:46:45","changed_gmt":"2026-02-03 18:49:20","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-01-28T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-01-28T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679179":{"id":"679179","type":"image","title":"SMR-AdobeStock_1360249117.jpeg","body":null,"created":"1770144411","gmt_created":"2026-02-03 18:46:51","changed":"1770144411","gmt_changed":"2026-02-03 18:46:51","alt":"Stock Image: Showing SMRs stored.","file":{"fid":"263308","name":"SMR-AdobeStock_1360249117.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/03\/SMR-AdobeStock_1360249117.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/03\/SMR-AdobeStock_1360249117.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":245059,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/02\/03\/SMR-AdobeStock_1360249117.jpeg?itok=0IEEHyUu"}}},"media_ids":["679179"],"groups":[{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"131","name":"Economic Development and Policy"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"151","name":"Policy, Social Sciences, and Liberal Arts"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"39511","name":"Public Service, Leadership, and Policy"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:epicenter@gatech.edu\u0022\u003EGil Gonzalez\u003C\/a\u003E || EPIcenter Program Coordinator\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["epicenter@gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"687994":{"#nid":"687994","#data":{"type":"news","title":"EPIcenter Student Affiliate Wins School of Economics Paper Prize","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAfi Ramadhani, a graduate student in economics and a student affiliate of \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s Energy Policy Innovation Center\u003C\/a\u003E, has won a prize for the best research paper from the \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/econ.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Economics\u003C\/a\u003E. The research developed in the paper was supported by \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/students\/\u0022\u003EEPIcenter\u2019s Graduate Student Summer Research Program\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe prize recognizes outstanding student research produced within the School and highlights the value of EPIcenter\u2019s sustained research support and professional development for graduate students.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/econ.gatech.edu\/people\/person\/maghfira-ramadhani\u0022\u003ERamadhani\u2019s\u003C\/a\u003E award-winning paper, titled \u201cBattery Storage and Natural Gas Generator Market Power,\u201d was developed during his participation in \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/epicenter-announces-selection-six-students-inaugural-summer-research-program\u0022\u003EEPIcenter\u2019s Summer Research Program\u003C\/a\u003E for graduate and doctoral students pursuing energy policy research at Georgia Tech. Through the program, he received research mentoring and communications coaching that strengthened his work.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThis award reflects what can happen when students have the time, mentorship, and support to fully develop their ideas,\u201d said \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/energy.gatech.edu\/people\/laura-taylor\u0022\u003ELaura Taylor\u003C\/a\u003E, director of EPIcenter. \u201cOur Summer Research Program is designed to help graduate students advance rigorous energy policy research while also building the skills needed to communicate that work effectively.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESupporting Graduate Research in Energy Policy\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe program supports graduate students whose work contributes to energy policy and innovation. Student affiliates receive funding, mentorship, and access to EPIcenter\u2019s research and communications resources, helping them build their academic profiles and translate complex research for broader audiences.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition, they gain valuable opportunities to present their work, participate in EPIcenter programs and events, share their research through EPIcenter\u2019s communications platforms, and build their skills through tailored collaboration and training with EPIcenter staff.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDuring the summer, Ramadhani worked closely with EPIcenter staff and mentors. The program\u2019s stipend allowed him to spend those months fully focused on his research, rather than taking on teaching or other responsibilities.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022Participating in the program really made my summer productive. I got a lot of good feedback on how to shape the idea into a paper,\u0022 he said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAdvancing Emerging Scholars\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERamadhani\u2019s recognition reflects EPIcenter\u2019s broader commitment to supporting graduate students whose research addresses critical energy and policy challenges. By pairing research support with mentorship and communications training, the center helps students develop work that earns recognition well beyond the program itself.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAfi Ramadhani, a graduate student in economics and a student affiliate of \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s Energy Policy Innovation Center\u003C\/a\u003E, has won a prize for the best research paper from the \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/econ.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Economics\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;The research developed in the paper was supported by \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/students\/\u0022\u003EEPIcenter\u2019s Graduate Student Summer Research Program\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Afi Ramadhani, a graduate student in economics and a student affiliate of Georgia Tech\u2019s Energy Policy Innovation Center, has won a prize for the best research paper from the School of Economics. "}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2026-02-03 17:05:04","changed_gmt":"2026-02-03 17:08:30","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-02-03T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-02-03T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679177":{"id":"679177","type":"image","title":"Afi_headshot.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAfi Ramadhani, Ph.D. student at the School of Economics and EPIcenter Student Affiliate\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1770138316","gmt_created":"2026-02-03 17:05:16","changed":"1770138316","gmt_changed":"2026-02-03 17:05:16","alt":"Afi Ramadhani","file":{"fid":"263305","name":"Afi_headshot.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/03\/Afi_headshot.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/02\/03\/Afi_headshot.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":87641,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/02\/03\/Afi_headshot.jpg?itok=ytJ1qzbp"}}},"media_ids":["679177"],"groups":[{"id":"1278","name":"College of Sciences"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"151","name":"Policy, Social Sciences, and Liberal Arts"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"134","name":"Student and Faculty"},{"id":"193158","name":"Student Competition Winners (academic, innovation, and research)"},{"id":"193157","name":"Student Honors and Achievements"},{"id":"8862","name":"Student Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"39511","name":"Public Service, Leadership, and Policy"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EPriya Devarajan\u003C\/a\u003E || SEI Communications Program Manager\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"687390":{"#nid":"687390","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Researchers Discover How Worms Clean Their Environment Without a Brain","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen centimeter-long aquatic worms, such as \u003Cem\u003ET. tubifex\u003C\/em\u003E or \u003Cem\u003ELumbriculus variegatus\u003C\/em\u003E, are placed in a Petri dish filled with sub-millimeter sized sand particles, something surprising happens. Over time, the worms begin to spontaneously clean up their surroundings. They sweep particles into compact clusters, gradually reshaping and organizing their environment.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn a \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/journals.aps.org\/prx\/abstract\/10.1103\/yxp1-t43g\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Estudy\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E recently published in \u003Cem\u003EPhysical Review X,\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/em\u003Ea team of researchers show that this remarkable sweeping behavior does not require a brain, or any kind of complex interaction between the worms and the particles. Instead, it emerges from the natural undulating motion and flexibility that the worms possess.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe study was co-led by \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/bhamla.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESaad Bhamla\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, associate professor in Georgia Tech\u2019s School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Antoine Deblais of the University of Amsterdam.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDeblais said: \u201cIt is fascinating to see how living worms can organize their surroundings just by moving.\u201d Bhamla added: \u201cTheir activity and flexibility alone are enough to collect particles and reshape their environment.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy building simple robotic and computer models that mimic the living worms, the researchers discovered that only these two ingredients \u2013 activity and flexibility \u2013 are sufficient to reproduce the sweeping and collecting effects. The result is a self-organized, dynamic form of environmental restructuring driven purely by motion and shape.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOrder emerges\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe results do not just teach us a surprising lesson about worms. Understanding how these organisms spontaneously collect particles has much broader implications. On the technological side, what the researchers have learned could inspire the design of soft robots that clean or sort materials without needing sensors or pre-programmed intelligence.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESuch robots, like the worms, would simply move and let order emerge from motion. \u201cBrainless\u201d machines of this sort could perhaps one day help remove microplastics or sediments from aquatic environments, or perform complex tasks in unpredictable terrains.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFrom a biological perspective, the results also offer insights into how elongated living organisms \u2013 not just worms, but also filamentous bacteria, or cytoskeletal filaments \u2013 can structure and modify their own habitats through simple physical interactions. Understanding this structuring and modifying behaviour has been a central question for, e.g., earthworms in their role in soil aeration.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFrom a biological perspective, the results also offer insights into how elongated living organisms \u2013 not just worms, but also filamentous bacteria, or cytoskeletal filaments \u2013 can structure and modify their own habitats through simple physical interactions. Understanding this structuring and modifying behaviour has been a central question for, e.g., earthworms in their role in soil aeration.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETeam effort\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis project grew out of curiosity about how living systems shape their environment without centralized control. Initial experiments with worms, conducted by Harry Tuazon (Bioengineering PhD 2024) at Georgia Tech, showed the unexpected particle collection patterns. This led the team to attempt to reproduce the behavior using robotic and simulated counterparts \u2013 something that worked surprisingly well. In the project, experimentalists and theorists worked side by side, allowing the team to uncover the physical principles behind this seemingly purposeful behavior.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECo-first author Rosa Sinaasappel conducted the robot experiments at the University of Amsterdam. \u201cBy mimicking the worms\u2019 motion with simple brainless robots connected by flexible rubber links, we could pinpoint the two ingredients that are essential for the sweeping mechanism,\u201d she said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECo-first author Prathyusha Kokkoorakunnel Ramankutty, a research scientist in the Bhamla Lab at Georgia Tech, performed the computer simulations of the behavior. \u201cOur computational model, built on simple ingredients like propulsion and flexibility, shows that this principle works across different scales and can be adapted for new designs, as demonstrated by a soft robotic sweeper that autonomously \u2018cleans\u2019 and reorganizes particles without programmed intelligence,\u201d she explained.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe researchers will continue to investigate this type of behaviour in the future. While a mathematical model of active sweeping is now presented in a simple form, many challenging questions raised by this complex system remain open for theoreticians.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMultiple groups of students helped greatly with the robot experiments, doing projects in the lab. Their efforts ranged from performing the experiments to replacing the in total about 200 batteries, after perhaps one of the most difficult tasks: wrestling them free from the child-proof packaging.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECITATION:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/journals.aps.org\/prx\/abstract\/10.1103\/yxp1-t43g\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EParticle Sweeping and Collection by Active and Living Filaments\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, Sinaasappel, R., Prathyusha, K. R., Tuazon, Harry, Mirzahossein, E., Illien, P., Bhamla, Saad, and A. Deblais.\u0026nbsp;\u003Cem\u003EPhysical Review X\u003C\/em\u003E (2026)\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ETiny worms, big surprises! When placed in sand-filled Petri dishes, centimeter-long aquatic worms like T. tubifex spontaneously sweep up particles and reorganize their environment \u2014 all without a brain. Researchers discovered that this surprising behavior emerges purely from the worms\u2019 motion and flexibility.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":" When placed in sand-filled Petri dishes, centimeter-long aquatic worms like T. tubifex spontaneously sweep up particles and reorganize their environment \u2014 all without a brain."}],"uid":"27271","created_gmt":"2026-01-16 17:53:26","changed_gmt":"2026-01-30 16:43:16","author":"Brad Dixon","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-01-16T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-01-16T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679027":{"id":"679027","type":"image","title":"worms1.png","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EA real worm in a Petri dish (top left) and a robot worm (bottom right) clean their environments of tiny particles in a very similar manner.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1768586012","gmt_created":"2026-01-16 17:53:32","changed":"1768586012","gmt_changed":"2026-01-16 17:53:32","alt":"A real worm in a Petri dish (top left) and a robot worm (bottom right) clean their environments of tiny particles in a very similar manner.","file":{"fid":"263138","name":"worms1.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/16\/worms1.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/16\/worms1.png","mime":"image\/png","size":1129149,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/01\/16\/worms1.png?itok=xCfPAW8e"}},"679028":{"id":"679028","type":"video","title":" Two types of worms clean and organize their environment","body":"\u003Cp\u003ETwo types of worms clean and organize their environment\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1768586293","gmt_created":"2026-01-16 17:58:13","changed":"1768586293","gmt_changed":"2026-01-16 17:58:13","video":{"youtube_id":"H2I8IxNG4vA","video_url":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=H2I8IxNG4vA"}},"679029":{"id":"679029","type":"video","title":"Different types of robots lead to different types of cleaning behavior","body":"\u003Cp\u003EDifferent types of robots lead to different types of cleaning behavior\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1768586384","gmt_created":"2026-01-16 17:59:44","changed":"1768586384","gmt_changed":"2026-01-16 17:59:44","video":{"youtube_id":"h2k9pcmZ_ck","video_url":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=h2k9pcmZ_ck\u0026t=2s"}}},"media_ids":["679027","679028","679029"],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"141","name":"Chemistry and Chemical Engineering"},{"id":"150","name":"Physics and Physical Sciences"}],"keywords":[{"id":"194900","name":"worms"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"},{"id":"39521","name":"Robotics"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EBrad Dixon, braddixon@gatech.edu\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["braddixon@gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"687234":{"#nid":"687234","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Chelsea Ekwegh Honored as Millennium Fellow for Work in Urban Sustainability","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EChelsea Ekwegh, a fourth-year mechanical engineering student in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGeorge W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, has made it her mission to reshape how cities think about energy. After being selected for the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/undergraduate.gatech.edu\/38-georgia-tech-students-selected-as-2025-millennium-fellows\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E2025 Millennium Fellowship\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, a prestigious leadership development program that supports student-led projects advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, she is tackling the challenge of helping cities transition toward clean, efficient, and equitable energy systems.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe fellowship, a joint initiative of the United Nations Academic Impact and the Millennium Campus Network, empowers undergraduates around the world to design and lead social impact projects.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEkwegh\u2019s project,\u003Cem\u003E \u003C\/em\u003Etitled Bridging Energy Infrastructure for Sustainable Urban Development\u003Cem\u003E, \u003C\/em\u003Eexplores ways to connect new and old technologies so cities can evolve without leaving people or infrastructure behind.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHer inspiration for the project comes from her experience growing up in Nigeria, where power outages and generator pollution were a daily challenge.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/news\/chelsea-ekwegh-honored-millennium-fellow-work-urban-sustainability\u0022\u003ERead more on the ME School Page\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EChelsea Ekwegh, a fourth-year mechanical engineering student in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGeorge W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, has made it her mission to reshape how cities think about energy. After being selected for the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/undergraduate.gatech.edu\/38-georgia-tech-students-selected-as-2025-millennium-fellows\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E2025 Millennium Fellowship\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, a prestigious leadership development program that supports student-led projects advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, she is tackling the challenge of helping cities transition toward clean, efficient, and equitable energy systems.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe fellowship, a joint initiative of the United Nations Academic Impact and the Millennium Campus Network, empowers undergraduates around the world to design and lead social impact projects.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEkwegh\u2019s project,\u003Cem\u003E \u003C\/em\u003Etitled Bridging Energy Infrastructure for Sustainable Urban Development\u003Cem\u003E, \u003C\/em\u003Eexplores ways to connect new and old technologies so cities can evolve without leaving people or infrastructure behind.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Ekwegh\u2019s project, titled Bridging Energy Infrastructure for Sustainable Urban Development, explores ways to connect new and old technologies so cities can evolve without leaving people or infrastructure behind."}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2026-01-13 14:04:34","changed_gmt":"2026-01-28 18:56:34","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-11-26T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-11-26T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678967":{"id":"678967","type":"image","title":"Chelsea-Ekwegh-headshot_web.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EChelsea Ekwegh\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1768313232","gmt_created":"2026-01-13 14:07:12","changed":"1769626524","gmt_changed":"2026-01-28 18:55:24","alt":"Chelsea Ekwegh 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Infrastructure"},{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"687712":{"#nid":"687712","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Lights, Camera, Memory!","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ECan flickering light and sound help fight Alzheimer\u2019s disease?\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EOn this episode of \u003Cem\u003EHoly Shift!\u003C\/em\u003E, host Angela Gill Nelms chats with Dr. Annabelle Singer from Georgia Tech and Emory University, whose groundbreaking research explores how carefully timed lights and sounds may help \u201ctune\u201d the brain, boost memory, and change the course of Alzheimer\u2019s disease. \u0026nbsp;From building theater lights as a kid to decoding how brain waves shape memory, Dr. Singer is proving that sometimes the brightest ideas come from unexpected places.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/holyshiftresearch.transistor.fm\/5\u0022\u003ETune in to hear how groundbreaking science is lighting the way toward healthier brains and brighter futures.\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ECan flickering light and sound help fight Alzheimer\u2019s disease?\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Can flickering light and sound help fight Alzheimer\u2019s disease?"}],"uid":"35575","created_gmt":"2026-01-27 15:58:34","changed_gmt":"2026-01-27 16:00:16","author":"adavidson38","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-11-19T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-11-19T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679105":{"id":"679105","type":"image","title":"Annabelle-Singer-Holy-Shift-INNS.jpeg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAnnabelle Singer\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1769529538","gmt_created":"2026-01-27 15:58:58","changed":"1769529538","gmt_changed":"2026-01-27 15:58:58","alt":"Annabelle Singer","file":{"fid":"263224","name":"Annabelle-Singer-Holy-Shift-INNS.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/27\/Annabelle-Singer-Holy-Shift-INNS.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/27\/Annabelle-Singer-Holy-Shift-INNS.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":109140,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/01\/27\/Annabelle-Singer-Holy-Shift-INNS.jpeg?itok=fQ30Icm-"}}},"media_ids":["679105"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/holyshiftresearch.transistor.fm\/5","title":"Listen to the full podcast"}],"groups":[{"id":"66220","name":"Neuro"},{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"}],"categories":[{"id":"138","name":"Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics"},{"id":"146","name":"Life Sciences and Biology"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"172970","name":"go-neuro"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"},{"id":"193656","name":"Neuro Next Initiative"},{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:kelly.petty@bme.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EKelly Petty\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["kelly.petty@bme.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686983":{"#nid":"686983","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Gazing Into the Mind\u2019s Eye With Mice \u2013 How Neuroscientists Are Seeing Human Vision More\u00a0Clearly","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv class=\u0022theconversation-article-body\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDespite the nursery rhyme about three blind mice, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.7554\/eLife.31209\u0022\u003Emouse eyesight is surprisingly sensitive\u003C\/a\u003E. Studying how mice see has helped researchers discover unprecedented details about how individual brain cells communicate and work together to create a mental picture of the visual world.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?user=P5IKL5UAAAAJ\u0026amp;hl=en\u0022\u003EI am a neuroscientist\u003C\/a\u003E who studies how brain cells drive visual perception and how these processes can fail in conditions \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1093\/cercor\/bhab025\u0022\u003Esuch as autism\u003C\/a\u003E. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/haider.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EMy lab\u003C\/a\u003E \u201clistens\u201d to the electrical activity of neurons in the outermost part of the brain called the cerebral cortex, a \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1523\/JNEUROSCI.17-18-07079.1997\u0022\u003Elarge portion of which\u003C\/a\u003E \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.7551\/mitpress\/7131.003.0038\u0022\u003Eprocesses visual information\u003C\/a\u003E. Injuries to the visual cortex can lead to blindness and other visual deficits, even when the eyes themselves are unhurt.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnderstanding the activity of individual neurons \u2013 and how they work together while the brain is actively using and processing information \u2013 is a \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/mapping-how-the-100-billion-cells-in-the-brain-all-fit-together-is-the-brave-new-world-of-neuroscience-170182\u0022\u003Elong-standing goal of neuroscience\u003C\/a\u003E. Researchers have moved much closer to achieving this goal thanks to new technologies aimed at the mouse visual system. And these findings will help scientists better see how the visual systems of people work.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe Mind in the Blink of an Eye\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EResearchers long thought that vision in mice appeared \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/s0042-6989(00)00081-x\u0022\u003Esluggish with low clarity\u003C\/a\u003E. But it turns out visual cortex neurons in mice \u2013 just like \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.pneurobio.2024.102656\u0022\u003Ethose in humans, monkeys, cats and ferrets\u003C\/a\u003E \u2013 require \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1523\/JNEUROSCI.0623-08.2008\u0022\u003Especific visual features to trigger activity\u003C\/a\u003E and are particularly \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/nature11665\u0022\u003Eselective in alert and awake conditions\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMy colleagues and I and others have found that \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41467-021-24311-5\u0022\u003Emice are especially sensitive to\u003C\/a\u003E \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41467-021-24311-5\u0022\u003Evisual stimuli directly in front of them\u003C\/a\u003E. This is surprising, because mouse eyes face outward rather than forward. Forward-facing eyes, like those of cats and primates, naturally have a larger area of focus straight ahead compared to outward-facing eyes.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-center zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/708514\/original\/file-20251212-56-z8h8ny.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;rect=0%2C0%2C2048%2C1787\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Microscopy image of stacks of neurons\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/708514\/original\/file-20251212-56-z8h8ny.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;rect=0%2C0%2C2048%2C1787\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/708514\/original\/file-20251212-56-z8h8ny.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=524\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/708514\/original\/file-20251212-56-z8h8ny.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=524\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/708514\/original\/file-20251212-56-z8h8ny.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=524\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/708514\/original\/file-20251212-56-z8h8ny.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=658\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/708514\/original\/file-20251212-56-z8h8ny.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=658\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/708514\/original\/file-20251212-56-z8h8ny.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=658\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003EThis image shows neurons in the mouse retina: cone photoreceptors (red), bipolar neurons (magenta), and a subtype of bipolar neuron (green).\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Ca class=\u0022source\u0022 href=\u0022https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/nihgov\/35882593476\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution\u0022\u003EBrian Liu and Melanie Samuel\/Baylor College of Medicine\/NIH via Flickr\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis finding suggests that the specialization of the visual system to highlight the frontal visual field appears to be \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/361719a0\u0022\u003Eshared between mice and humans\u003C\/a\u003E. For mice, a visual focus on what\u2019s straight ahead may help them be more \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.cub.2021.06.094\u0022\u003Eresponsive to shadows or edges\u003C\/a\u003E in front of them, helping them avoid looming predators or better \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.neuron.2021.03.010\u0022\u003Ehunt and capture insects for food\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EImportantly, the center of view is \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.3390\/jcm14155266\u0022\u003Emost affected in aging and many visual diseases\u003C\/a\u003E in people. Since mice also rely heavily on this part of the visual field, they may be particularly useful models to study and treat visual impairment.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EA Thousand Voices Drive Complicated Choices\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdvances in technology have greatly accelerated scientific understanding of vision and the brain. Researchers can now routinely record the activity of thousands of neurons at the same time and pair this data with real-time video of a mouse\u2019s face, pupil and body movements. This method can \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1126\/science.aav7893\u0022\u003Eshow how behavior interacts with brain activity\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt\u2019s like spending years listening to a grainy recording of a symphony with one featured soloist, but now you have a pristine recording where you can hear every single musician with a note-by-note readout of every single finger movement.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUsing these improved methods, researchers like me are studying how specific types of neurons work together during complex visual behaviors. This involves analyzing how factors such as movement, alertness and the environment influence visual activity in the brain.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor example, my lab and I found that the speed of visual signaling is \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.cub.2025.02.009\u0022\u003Ehighly sensitive to what actions are possible\u003C\/a\u003E in the physical environment. If a mouse rests on a disc that permits running, visual signals travel to the cortex faster than if the mouse views the same images while resting in a stationary tube \u2013 even when the mouse is totally still in both conditions.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn order to connect electrical activity to visual perception, researchers also have to ask a mouse what it thinks it sees. How have we done this?\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe last decade has seen researchers debunking long-standing \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.3389\/fnsys.2014.00173\u0022\u003Emyths about mouse learning and behavior\u003C\/a\u003E. Like other rodents, mice are also \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/im-a-neuroscientist-who-taught-rats-to-drive-their-joy-suggests-how-anticipating-fun-can-enrich-human-life-239029\u0022\u003Esurprisingly clever\u003C\/a\u003E and can learn how to \u201ctell\u201d researchers about the visual events they perceive through their behavior.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor example, mice can \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1523\/jneurosci.3560-13.2013\u0022\u003Elearn to release a lever\u003C\/a\u003E to indicate they have detected that a pattern has brightened or tilted. They can \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.celrep.2017.08.047\u0022\u003Erotate a Lego wheel left or right\u003C\/a\u003E to move a visual stimulus to the center of a screen like a video game, and they can \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.7554\/eLife.50340\u0022\u003Estop running on a wheel\u003C\/a\u003E \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.3389\/fnbeh.2020.00104\u0022\u003Eand lick a water spout\u003C\/a\u003E when they detect the visual scene has suddenly changed.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-center zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/708526\/original\/file-20251212-56-ccqnav.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Mouse drinking from a metal water spout\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/708526\/original\/file-20251212-56-ccqnav.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/708526\/original\/file-20251212-56-ccqnav.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=400\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/708526\/original\/file-20251212-56-ccqnav.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=400\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/708526\/original\/file-20251212-56-ccqnav.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=400\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/708526\/original\/file-20251212-56-ccqnav.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=503\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/708526\/original\/file-20251212-56-ccqnav.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=503\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/708526\/original\/file-20251212-56-ccqnav.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=503\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003EMice can be trained to drink water as a way to \u2018tell\u2019 researchers they see something.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Ca class=\u0022source\u0022 href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gettyimages.com\/detail\/photo\/mouse-drinking-from-a-spout-royalty-free-image\/178825439\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution\u0022\u003Efelixmizioznikov\/iStock via Getty Images Plus\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMice can also use visual cues to \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.cub.2018.01.038\u0022\u003Efocus their visual processing\u003C\/a\u003E to specific parts of the visual field. As a result, they can more quickly and accurately respond to visual stimuli that appear in those regions. For example, my team and I found that a faint visual image in the peripheral visual field is difficult for mice to detect. But once they do notice it \u2013 and tell us by licking a water spout \u2013 their subsequent responses are \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41467-020-14355-4\u0022\u003Efaster and more accurate\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese improvements come at a cost: If the image unexpectedly appears in a different location, the mice are slower and less likely to respond to it. These findings resemble those found in studies on \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080\/00335558008248231\u0022\u003Espatial attention in people\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMy lab has also found that \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41593-025-01888-4\u0022\u003Eparticular types of inhibitory neurons\u003C\/a\u003E \u2013 brain cells that prevent activity from spreading \u2013 strongly control the strength of visual signals. When we activated certain inhibitory neurons in the visual cortex of mice, we could effectively \u201cerase\u201d their perception of an image.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese kinds of experiments are also revealing that the boundaries between perception and action in the brain are \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41593-025-02114-x\u0022\u003Emuch less separate than once thought\u003C\/a\u003E. This means that visual neurons will respond differently to the same image in ways that depend on behavioral circumstances \u2013 for example, visual responses differ if the image will be \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41586-019-1787-x\u0022\u003Esuccessfully detected\u003C\/a\u003E, if it appears \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.neuron.2025.06.001\u0022\u003Ewhile the mouse is moving\u003C\/a\u003E, or if it appears \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1126\/science.aav3932\u0022\u003Ewhen the mouse is thirsty or hydrated\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnderstanding how different factors shape how cortical neurons rapidly respond to visual images will require advances in computational tools that can separate the contribution of these behavioral signals from the visual ones. Researchers also need technologies that can isolate how specific types of brain cells carry and communicate these signals.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EData Clouds Encircling the Globe\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis surge of research on the mouse visual system has led to a significant increase in the amount of data that scientists can not only gather in a single experiment but also publicly share among each other.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMajor national and international research centers focused on \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/brain-map.org\/\u0022\u003Eunraveling the circuitry of the mouse visual system\u003C\/a\u003E have been leading the charge in ushering in new optical, electrical and biological \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.internationalbrainlab.com\/\u0022\u003Etools to measure large numbers of visual neurons\u003C\/a\u003E in action. Moreover, they make \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/brain-map.org\/atlases#mouse\u0022\u003Eall the data publicly available\u003C\/a\u003E, inspiring \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/mouse.digital-brain.cn\/projectome\/pfc\u0022\u003Esimilar efforts around the globe\u003C\/a\u003E. This collaboration accelerates the ability of researchers to analyze data, replicate findings and make new discoveries.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETechnological advances in data collection and sharing can make the culture of scientific discovery more efficient and transparent \u2013 a major \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.3389\/fninf.2023.1276407\u0022\u003Edata informatics goal\u003C\/a\u003E of neuroscience in the years ahead.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf the past 10 years are anything to go by, I believe such discoveries are just the tip of the iceberg, and the mighty and not-so-blind mouse will play a leading role in the continuing quest to understand the mysteries of the human brain.\u003C!-- Below is The Conversation\u0027s page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --\u003E\u003Cimg style=\u0022border-color:!important;border-style:none;box-shadow:none !important;margin:0 !important;max-height:1px !important;max-width:1px !important;min-height:1px !important;min-width:1px !important;opacity:0 !important;outline:none !important;padding:0 !important;\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/counter.theconversation.com\/content\/268334\/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic\u0022 alt=\u0022The Conversation\u0022 width=\u00221\u0022 height=\u00221\u0022 referrerpolicy=\u0022no-referrer-when-downgrade\u0022\u003E\u003C!-- End of code. If you don\u0027t see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https:\/\/theconversation.com\/republishing-guidelines --\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis article is republished from \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThe Conversation\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E under a Creative Commons license. Read the \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/gazing-into-the-minds-eye-with-mice-how-neuroscientists-are-seeing-human-vision-more-clearly-268334\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003Eoriginal article\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"full_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EStudying how mice see has helped researchers discover unprecedented details about how individual brain cells communicate and work together to create a mental picture of the visual world.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Studying how mice see has helped researchers discover unprecedented details about how individual brain cells communicate and work together to create a mental picture of the visual world."}],"uid":"27469","created_gmt":"2025-12-16 13:42:12","changed_gmt":"2026-01-21 19:21:40","author":"Kristen Bailey","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-12-16T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-12-16T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678887":{"id":"678887","type":"image","title":" Mice have complex visual systems that can clarify how vision works in people. Westend61\/Getty Images","body":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMice have complex visual systems that can clarify how vision works in people. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gettyimages.com\/detail\/photo\/germany-research-laboratory-mouse-climbing-out-of-royalty-free-image\/544546223\u0022\u003EWestend61\/Getty Images\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","created":"1766065654","gmt_created":"2025-12-18 13:47:34","changed":"1766065654","gmt_changed":"2025-12-18 13:47:34","alt":" Mice have complex visual systems that can clarify how vision works in people. Westend61\/Getty Images","file":{"fid":"262977","name":"file-20251213-56-fdaib6.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/18\/file-20251213-56-fdaib6.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/18\/file-20251213-56-fdaib6.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":80137,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/12\/18\/file-20251213-56-fdaib6.jpg?itok=21uzzcB5"}}},"media_ids":["678887"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/theconversation.com\/gazing-into-the-minds-eye-with-mice-how-neuroscientists-are-seeing-human-vision-more-clearly-268334","title":"Read This Article on The Conversation"}],"groups":[{"id":"66220","name":"Neuro"},{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"138","name":"Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"},{"id":"172970","name":"go-neuro"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71881","name":"Science and Technology"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Ch5\u003EAuthor:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/profiles\/bilal-haider-2512267\u0022\u003EBilal Haider\u003C\/a\u003E, Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/institutions\/georgia-institute-of-technology-1310\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EGeorgia Institute of Technology\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch5\u003EMedia Contact:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShelley Wunder-Smith\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:shelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003Eshelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"687561":{"#nid":"687561","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Insurance Claims Database Provides Health Care Cost Comparisons","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia residents now have a new way to compare the estimated costs paid for a large variety of health care services in the state, thanks to a searchable \u201cshop for care\u201d resource launched as part of the Georgia All-Payer Claims Database (GA APCD).\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Georgia APCD Cost Comparison Tool (\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/apcd.georgia.gov\/cost-comparison-tool\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022external\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Eapcd.georgia.gov\/cost-comparison-tool\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E) contains information on more than 200 different medical procedures ranging from cardiac stress tests and childbirth to knee replacement and colonoscopies. The resource provides information on the median cost paid for the procedures statewide, along with information on what individual medical facilities and professional providers have been paid for each type of procedure.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor each procedure, the tool identifies medical facility providers nearest to the consumer and includes facility ratings collected by the Centers for Medicare \u0026amp; Medicaid Services (CMS). For each facility providing a specific service, the comparison data includes the median cost for the procedure and the range of costs that were paid. Costs can be filtered by payer category, including commercial, Medicare, and Medicaid. While that data is understandably incomplete and includes caveats, developers of the new service say it provides a much-needed resource for Georgians facing a decision on a costly medical procedure.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIn health care, there are a lot of factors that can drive cost and it\u2019s not always a straightforward equation, so it\u2019s worth doing the research,\u201d said Dr. Jon Duke, an M.D. and principal research scientist in the Georgia Tech Research Institute\u2019s (GTRI) \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gtri.gatech.edu\/focus-areas\/health-emerging-and-advanced-technologies\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022external\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHealth Emerging and Advanced Technologies Division\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, which administers the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/apcd.georgia.gov\/\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022external\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAPCD\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E for the state of Georgia. \u201cThis is really just one part of health care decision-making, and it will help patients be more proactive advocates for themselves when considering potential options for care.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDr. Duke is also a faculty member in Georgia Tech\u0027s Institute for People and Technology. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gtri.gatech.edu\/newsroom\/georgia-insurance-claims-database-provides-health-care-cost-comparisons\u0022\u003EYou can read the full article published by the Georgia Tech Research Institute here.\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia residents now have a new way to compare the estimated costs paid for a large variety of health care services in the state, thanks to a searchable \u201cshop for care\u201d resource launched as part of the Georgia All-Payer Claims Database (GA APCD).\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia residents now have a new way to compare the estimated costs paid for a large variety of health care services in the state, thanks to a searchable \u201cshop for care\u201d resource launched as part of the Georgia All-Payer Claims Database (GA APCD)."}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2026-01-21 18:31:32","changed_gmt":"2026-01-21 18:33:04","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-01-21T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-01-21T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679048":{"id":"679048","type":"image","title":"Georgia Claims Database","body":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia residents now have a new way to compare the estimated costs paid for a large variety of health care services in the state, thanks to a resource created by the Georgia All-Payer Claims Database. (iStock photo)\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1769020002","gmt_created":"2026-01-21 18:26:42","changed":"1769020033","gmt_changed":"2026-01-21 18:27:13","alt":"Georgia residents now have a new way to compare the estimated costs paid for a large variety of health care services in the state, thanks to a resource created by the Georgia All-Payer Claims Database. (iStock photo)","file":{"fid":"263160","name":"corridor-iStock-482858629.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/21\/corridor-iStock-482858629.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/21\/corridor-iStock-482858629.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":673017,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/01\/21\/corridor-iStock-482858629.jpg?itok=t4t856n0"}}},"media_ids":["679048"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"687279":{"#nid":"687279","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Meet the Expert: Daniel Matisoff","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAs an undergraduate at the University of Pennsylvania, Daniel Matisoff was intrigued by the ability of economic markets to help solve environmental problems. \u201cLearning about the regulatory role of governments in cap-and-trade markets for reducing carbon emissions shaped my career path,\u201d says\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/iac.gatech.edu\/people\/person\/daniel-matisoff\u0022\u003EMatisoff\u003C\/a\u003E, a professor at the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School of Public Policy and EPIcenter\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/people-faculty-affiliates\/\u0022\u003Efaculty affiliate\u003C\/a\u003E. \u201cIt helped me decide to enter academia after earning my PhD in public policy at Indiana University, where I compared voluntary and mandatory emission reduction policies.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToday, Matisoff continues research activities in this space and also directs a professional\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/spp.gatech.edu\/masters\/mseem\u0022\u003Emaster\u2019s program\u003C\/a\u003E whose graduates help implement environmental policies in the public and private sector. Soon after joining the Georgia Tech faculty in 2009, he began to focus on market transformation through regulation, government subsidies and other financial incentives.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis led to an award-winning 2023\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gatech.edu\/news\/2023\/01\/19\/ecolabels-innovation-and-green-market-transformation-learning-leed\u0022\u003Ebook\u003C\/a\u003E about the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification program. It sparked the construction industry\u2019s green building movement and incentivized early adopters of sustainable technology to create new supply chains. For Matisoff, LEED is a perfect example of using governance as a lever for environmental change.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sites.gatech.edu\/epicenter\/2026\/01\/20\/meet-the-expert-dan-matisoff\/\u0022\u003ERead Full Story on the EPIcenter Webpage\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"Policies for greening the grid: rooftop solar panels and community solar programs "}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPolicies for greening the grid: rooftop solar panels and community solar programs\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs an undergraduate at the University of Pennsylvania, Daniel Matisoff was intrigued by the ability of economic markets to help solve environmental problems. \u201cLearning about the regulatory role of governments in cap-and-trade markets for reducing carbon emissions shaped my career path,\u201d says\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/iac.gatech.edu\/people\/person\/daniel-matisoff\u0022\u003EMatisoff\u003C\/a\u003E, a professor at the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School of Public Policy and EPIcenter\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/people-faculty-affiliates\/\u0022\u003Efaculty affiliate\u003C\/a\u003E. \u201cIt helped me decide to enter academia after earning my PhD in public policy at Indiana University, where I compared voluntary and mandatory emission reduction policies.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToday, Matisoff continues research activities in this space and also directs a professional\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/spp.gatech.edu\/masters\/mseem\u0022\u003Emaster\u2019s program\u003C\/a\u003E whose graduates help implement environmental policies in the public and private sector. Soon after joining the Georgia Tech faculty in 2009, he began to focus on market transformation through regulation, government subsidies and other financial incentives.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Meet Daniel Matisoff: Professor of Public Policy and EPIcenter affiliate"}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2026-01-14 13:30:25","changed_gmt":"2026-01-20 18:02:00","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-01-14T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-01-14T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679041":{"id":"679041","type":"image","title":"Dan-Matisoff-High-Res-Photo-1-768x1151.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EDan Matisoff\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1768932077","gmt_created":"2026-01-20 18:01:17","changed":"1768932077","gmt_changed":"2026-01-20 18:01:17","alt":"Dan Matisoff","file":{"fid":"263152","name":"Dan-Matisoff-High-Res-Photo-1-768x1151.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/20\/Dan-Matisoff-High-Res-Photo-1-768x1151.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/20\/Dan-Matisoff-High-Res-Photo-1-768x1151.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":82427,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/01\/20\/Dan-Matisoff-High-Res-Photo-1-768x1151.jpg?itok=8lCKiuuO"}}},"media_ids":["679041"],"groups":[{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"142","name":"City Planning, Transportation, and Urban Growth"},{"id":"131","name":"Economic Development and Policy"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"151","name":"Policy, Social Sciences, and Liberal Arts"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:ggonzalez68@gatech.edu\u0022\u003EGil Gonzalez\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003EProgram Coordinator\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EEPIcenter\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EWritten by: Silke Schmidt\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["ggonzalez68@gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"687342":{"#nid":"687342","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Rusty Roberts Receives Top Test and Evaluation Award","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ERussell L. (Rusty) Roberts, director of the Georgia Tech Research Institute\u0027s (GTRI) Aerospace, Transportation and Advanced Systems (ATAS) Laboratory, was awarded the International Test and Evaluation Association\u0027s (ITEA) 2025 Allen R. Matthews Award, the association\u0027s highest honor for lifetime achievement in test and evaluation (T\u0026amp;E).\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ENamed for ITEA\u0027s founder, the Allen R. Matthews Award recognizes individuals whose careers have produced lasting and significant contributions to the T\u0026amp;E community. It is reserved for those whose impact is measured not only in technical achievements, but also in sustained leadership and service to the profession.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ERoberts is a nationally recognized expert in T\u0026amp;E. He has spent decades helping the Department of Defense modernize how it evaluates complex systems. This includes work in electronic warfare and threat radar environments. He leads ATAS at GTRI, where he has launched and continues to guide a cross-Institute T\u0026amp;E initiative that brings together GTRI\u0027s technical resources to support the Office of the Secretary of Defense\u0027s Test Resource Management Center and the network of Department of Defense test and training ranges.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EUnder Roberts\u0027 leadership, GTRI has delivered multiple high-impact test assets. These include sophisticated threat radar systems that allow United States forces to evaluate sensors and electronic countermeasures against realistic representations of adversary surface-to-air missile threats.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERoberts began his path into T\u0026amp;E in the United States Army. A graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point with a degree in electrical engineering, he served as a Signal Corps officer with assignments at Fort Gordon, Georgia, and in Kaiserslautern, Germany. As a platoon leader and company commander, he led an operational test of the Tactical Automated Switching System. This was his first exposure to formal operational testing and the realities of fielding new communications technology for soldiers.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Army later sent Roberts to graduate school at Georgia Tech for advanced study in electrical engineering. This was followed by a teaching tour at West Point. As an Associate Professor and later course director for a senior-level two-semester electronics sequence, he strengthened both his technical depth and his ability to communicate complex concepts to the next generation of Army officers.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen his active-duty commitment ended, Roberts transitioned to the Army Reserve. He attended a Georgia Tech alumni job fair in Atlanta. That event led him to GTRI, where he joined as an associate project director on what was then the largest project ever awarded to the Institute. This project involved a threat radar system intended as a test asset for the T\u0026amp;E community. The role immersed him in the operations and needs of major ranges such as China Lake, the Nevada Test and Training Range, and Eglin Air Force Base. It also set the course for a career spent designing and delivering advanced test capabilities.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERoberts helped guide a broader shift in how threat systems are developed for T\u0026amp;E. Early in his GTRI career, teams focused on highly specialized single-threat \u0022point solutions\u0022 that were extremely accurate but time-consuming and expensive to build. Today, he advocates and leads work toward modular and open architecture radar systems. These can be reconfigured to emulate multiple threats using shared hardware and powerful software-defined back ends. This approach improves agility and helps keep pace with rapid advances in adversary systems.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeyond his technical leadership, Roberts has been a central figure in ITEA. He is a past president of the association and has been actively involved since the early 1990s. Over the decades, he has championed the importance of professional societies in helping T\u0026amp;E practitioners share lessons learned, grow their networks, and advance their careers. He has also been a vocal advocate for bringing more early-career engineers and scientists into the T\u0026amp;E profession. He continues to encourage embedding systems engineering and T\u0026amp;E thinking throughout the system development lifecycle.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn its statement on the award, ITEA said \u201cWith nearly five decades of dedicated service to our Nation, including over 30 years of continuous and influential involvement in test and evaluation, Rusty Roberts stands as a national asset to the T\u0026amp;E profession and a treasured member of the ITEA family.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERoberts\u0027 career highlights Georgia Tech and GTRI\u0027s long-standing role in advancing the science and practice of test and evaluation.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWriter: \u003Cstrong\u003EChristopher Weems\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EGTRI Communications\u003Cbr\u003EGeorgia Tech Research Institute\u003Cbr\u003EAtlanta, Georgia\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAbout the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI)\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EThe Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) is the nonprofit, applied research division of the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech).\u202fFounded in 1934 as the Engineering Experiment Station, GTRI has grown to more than 3,000 employees, supporting eight laboratories in over 20 locations around the country and performing more than $919 million of problem-solving research annually for government and industry.\u202fGTRI\u0027s renowned researchers combine science, engineering, economics, policy, and technical expertise to solve complex problems for the U.S. federal government, state, and industry.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ERussell L. (Rusty) Roberts, director of the Georgia Tech Research Institute\u0027s (GTRI) Aerospace, Transportation and Advanced Systems (ATAS) Laboratory, was awarded the International Test and Evaluation Association\u0027s (ITEA) 2025 Allen R. Matthews Award, the association\u0027s highest honor for lifetime achievement in test and evaluation (T\u0026amp;E).\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Russell L. (Rusty) Roberts, director of the Georgia Tech Research Institute\u0027s (GTRI) Aerospace, Transportation and Advanced Systems (ATAS) Laboratory, was awarded the International Test and Evaluation Association\u0027s (ITEA) 2025 Allen R. Matthews Award."}],"uid":"35875","created_gmt":"2026-01-15 14:21:09","changed_gmt":"2026-01-15 14:25:42","author":"cweems8","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-12-15T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-12-15T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679004":{"id":"679004","type":"image","title":"IMG_5735.JPG","body":null,"created":"1768486927","gmt_created":"2026-01-15 14:22:07","changed":"1768486927","gmt_changed":"2026-01-15 14:22:07","alt":"Rusty Roberts (r.) accepts  the International Test and Evaluation Association\u0027s (ITEA) 2025 Allen R. Matthews Award.","file":{"fid":"263114","name":"IMG_5735.JPG","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/15\/IMG_5735.JPG","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/15\/IMG_5735.JPG","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":687531,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/01\/15\/IMG_5735.JPG?itok=6i7Ckur7"}},"679005":{"id":"679005","type":"image","title":"IMG_5745.JPG","body":null,"created":"1768486927","gmt_created":"2026-01-15 14:22:07","changed":"1768486927","gmt_changed":"2026-01-15 14:22:07","alt":"Rusty Roberts speaks at a podium to a gathering of the International Test and Evaluation Association.","file":{"fid":"263115","name":"IMG_5745.JPG","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/15\/IMG_5745.JPG","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/15\/IMG_5745.JPG","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":2551467,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/01\/15\/IMG_5745.JPG?itok=L9D4QSi8"}}},"media_ids":["679004","679005"],"groups":[{"id":"1276","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI)"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"},{"id":"39541","name":"Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":["christopher.weems@gtri.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"687340":{"#nid":"687340","#data":{"type":"news","title":"GTRI Researcher Joseph Greene Receives IEEE-USA McClure Citation of Honor","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) Research Engineer Joseph Greene has received the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ieeeusa.org\/volunteers\/awards-recognition\/professionalism\/mcclure\/#:~:text=Past%20Recipients-,Purpose,activities%20in%20the%20United%20States.\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIEEE-USA George F. McClure Citation of Honor\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E. This national award\u0026nbsp;recognizes exemplary contributions to advancing professional activities for engineers in the United States.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGreene, of GTRI\u2019s Electro-Optical Systems Laboratory (EOSL), said his first reaction to the award was shaped by the very security awareness culture he supports at work.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe are in training season for phishing emails at GTRI,\u201d he said with a laugh. \u201cSo, my first reaction was almost disbelief. I thought, \u2018There has to be something going on here.\u2019 I went and confirmed it before I let myself believe it was real.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOnce he verified the message was legitimate, the significance of the honor began to sink in.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cBeyond the recognition itself, what really mattered to me was the reflection of impact,\u201d Greene said. \u201cIEEE is really my home away from home. A lot of my time outside of GTRI is dedicated to IEEE and its programming, so to see that work recognized in this way was incredibly meaningful.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe McClure Citation of Honor is focused on professional activities. For Greene, that focus aligns directly with how he has chosen to invest his time in \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/hkn.ieee.org\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIEEE and in IEEE-Eta Kappa Nu (IEEE-HKN)\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, the organization\u2019s honor society for electrical and computer engineers.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGreene\u2019s involvement with IEEE-HKN began as an undergraduate at Boston University, and continued through graduate school and into his professional career. Over time, he moved from chapter-level activities into roles that support the wider society, particularly in areas such as data management, AI-enabled tools, and mentoring programs that connect students with alumni and professionals.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHe describes IEEE and IEEE-HKN as a kind of infrastructure for the profession, giving students and early-career engineers a place to test their leadership skills, build networks, and learn how to work across disciplines. In the interview, Greene emphasized how much of his volunteer work focuses on creating systems that make those experiences easier to access and more sustainable.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERather than focusing only on one-time events, he has helped build programs that can be replicated and scaled, from virtual mentoring and career panels to tools that help chapters track engagement and connect with each other. Those efforts support the kind of professional development that the McClure Citation seeks to highlight, including career readiness, leadership, and the ability to engage with broader policy and societal issues that affect engineers.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGreene said that one of the most rewarding aspects of his IEEE-HKN work is seeing students and young professionals realize how much they have to offer, even early in their careers. Through mentoring and leadership opportunities, he has watched them gain confidence, find their communities, and begin to shape the profession they are entering.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat same systems-focused mindset carries over to Greene\u2019s research at GTRI, where he works at the intersection of optics, algorithms, and emerging sensing technologies.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIt is basically optical design meets deep learning to push what is possible with physical systems,\u201d he said, describing his work in computational imaging. \u201cI find myself interfacing across a wide range of projects where I either inspire next-generation algorithms or next-generation optical design to meet key needs in our primarily Department of Defense portfolio.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn that role, Greene often thinks about how to integrate new concepts into real-world systems in a way that advances capability without introducing unacceptable levels of risk.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe major drive I have at the Institute is to balance risk with innovation,\u201d he said. \u201cWe want designs that are truly new and push forward what our sponsors can do, but we cannot demand an incredible amount of risk that would prohibit us from achieving those successes.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA significant portion of his recent work focuses on neuromorphic imaging, or event-based vision, a sensing approach that operates differently from traditional cameras.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe goal of these cameras is to redo the paradigm in which we interrogate the world,\u201d Greene explained. \u201cYou are more interested in motion and change than in static walls around you. Event-based cameras respond to action. They suppress a lot of static information and can pull out minute changes in the world around you, even with very faint contrast.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBecause these devices are relatively new and not yet standardized, Greene said there is still foundational work to do.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThese are new and largely unstandardized devices,\u201d he said. \u201cIf we take one off the shelf and try to relate it back to theory, there are gaps. We want to calibrate and characterize practical devices so we can provide real guarantees to our sponsors about how they will perform in the real world.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt the same time, he is helping explore mission-focused applications where the technology\u2019s strengths, such as high dynamic range and performance in ultra\u2013low light, can make a meaningful difference.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThere are very particular use cases where this technology can have a big impact,\u201d Greene said. \u201cIt has already generated excitement in areas like autonomous vehicles because of its performance across a wide range of lighting conditions, including ultra\u2013low light.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhether he is helping a student chapter modernize its data systems, advising early-career engineers through IEEE-HKN programs, or designing a new imaging approach for a sponsor, Greene sees a common thread running through his volunteer service and his work at GTRI.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBoth, he said, are about building structures that help people see more clearly, make better decisions, and respond more effectively to complex problems. The McClure Citation of Honor recognizes that broad kind of impact, one that spans technical leadership, professional development, and community building across the engineering profession.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJoseph Greene is an exemplar of GTRI\u2019s mission to \u201cserve national security\u201d and \u201ceducate future technology leaders\u201d as one of \u201cthe foremost innovators\u0026nbsp;creating a secure nation, a prosperous Georgia, and a sustainable world.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWriter: \u003Cstrong\u003EChristopher Weems\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPhotos:\u003Cstrong\u003E Christopher J. Moore\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EGTRI Communications\u003Cbr\u003EGeorgia Tech Research Institute\u003Cbr\u003EAtlanta, Georgia\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAbout the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI)\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EThe Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) is the nonprofit, applied research division of the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech).\u202fFounded in 1934 as the Engineering Experiment Station, GTRI has grown to more than 3,000 employees, supporting eight laboratories in over 20 locations around the country and performing more than $919 million of problem-solving research annually for government and industry.\u202fGTRI\u0027s renowned researchers combine science, engineering, economics, policy, and technical expertise to solve complex problems for the U.S. federal government, state, and industry.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) Research Engineer Joseph Greene, Ph.D. has received the IEEE-USA George F. McClure Citation of Honor. This national award recognizes exemplary contributions to advancing professional activities for engineers in the United States. Greene is a member of GTRI\u2019s Electro-Optical Systems Laboratory (EOSL).\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Research Engineer Joseph Greene, of GTRI\u2019s Electro-Optical Systems Laboratory (EOSL), was recognized recognized for the student-centric initiatives he has developed"}],"uid":"35875","created_gmt":"2026-01-15 14:11:26","changed_gmt":"2026-01-15 14:17:26","author":"cweems8","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-12-15T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-12-15T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"679000":{"id":"679000","type":"image","title":"Joseph-Greene--hands-clasped.jpg","body":null,"created":"1768486305","gmt_created":"2026-01-15 14:11:45","changed":"1768486305","gmt_changed":"2026-01-15 14:11:45","alt":"Joseph Greene, seated with hands clasped.","file":{"fid":"263110","name":"Joseph-Greene--hands-clasped.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/15\/Joseph-Greene--hands-clasped.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/15\/Joseph-Greene--hands-clasped.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":11986834,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/01\/15\/Joseph-Greene--hands-clasped.jpg?itok=SaWZfA3q"}},"679001":{"id":"679001","type":"image","title":"Joseph-Greene--hands-clasped-standing.jpg","body":null,"created":"1768486305","gmt_created":"2026-01-15 14:11:45","changed":"1768486305","gmt_changed":"2026-01-15 14:11:45","alt":"Joseph Greene poses in an office suite.","file":{"fid":"263111","name":"Joseph-Greene--hands-clasped-standing.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/15\/Joseph-Greene--hands-clasped-standing.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/15\/Joseph-Greene--hands-clasped-standing.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":5682139,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/01\/15\/Joseph-Greene--hands-clasped-standing.jpg?itok=TM1zgZ8R"}},"679002":{"id":"679002","type":"image","title":"Joseph-Greene--looking-upward-stairwell.jpg","body":null,"created":"1768486305","gmt_created":"2026-01-15 14:11:45","changed":"1768486305","gmt_changed":"2026-01-15 14:11:45","alt":"Joseph Greene poses looking upward while standing in a stairway.","file":{"fid":"263112","name":"Joseph-Greene--looking-upward-stairwell.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/15\/Joseph-Greene--looking-upward-stairwell.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/15\/Joseph-Greene--looking-upward-stairwell.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":5628802,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/01\/15\/Joseph-Greene--looking-upward-stairwell.jpg?itok=aLpqj_Ts"}}},"media_ids":["679000","679001","679002"],"groups":[{"id":"1276","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI)"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"},{"id":"39511","name":"Public Service, Leadership, and Policy"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":["christopher.weems@gtri.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"687332":{"#nid":"687332","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Celebrating a Decade of Impact: The Center for Sustainable Communities Research and Education (SCoRE) Marks 10 Years of Community-Engaged Sustainability at Georgia Tech","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s Center for Sustainable Communities Research and Education (SCoRE) is celebrating its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of transformative work that has bridged campus and community to advance sustainability across Atlanta and beyond.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EVisionary Beginnings\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELaunched in 2015 as Serve-Learn-Sustain (SLS), SCoRE aimed to integrate sustainability and community engagement into Georgia Tech\u2019s undergraduate curriculum across all of its colleges. The program came about through a campuswide Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP), required for Georgia Tech to retain its accreditation. The designation comes once every 10 years from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cSLS was ahead of its time, bringing together sustainability and community engagement to change the culture at Georgia Tech,\u201d observes Ellen Zegura, a three-decade veteran of Georgia Tech who co-founded SLS with Beril Toktay, now executive director of the Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems (BBISS).\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scre.research.gatech.edu\/node\/3250\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERead more \u00bb\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s Center for Sustainable Communities Research and Education (SCoRE) is celebrating its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of transformative work that has bridged campus and community to advance sustainability across Atlanta and beyond.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech\u2019s Center for Sustainable Communities Research and Education (SCoRE) is celebrating its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of transformative work that has bridged campus and community to advance sustainability across Atlanta and beyond."}],"uid":"36757","created_gmt":"2026-01-14 21:29:52","changed_gmt":"2026-01-14 21:31:01","author":"ychernet3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-01-06T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-01-06T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678994":{"id":"678994","type":"image","title":"vipwawaclassroom--5.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Building for Equity and Sustainability undergraduate research class celebrates the opening of the outdoor classroom that they designed and built with the West Atlanta Watershed Alliance in Bush Mountain (April 14, 2025). \u0026nbsp;Credit: SCoRE\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1768426201","gmt_created":"2026-01-14 21:30:01","changed":"1768426201","gmt_changed":"2026-01-14 21:30:01","alt":"The Building for Equity and Sustainability undergraduate research class celebrates the opening of the outdoor classroom that they designed and built with the West Atlanta Watershed Alliance in Bush Mountain (April 14, 2025). ","file":{"fid":"263103","name":"vipwawaclassroom--5.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/14\/vipwawaclassroom--5.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/14\/vipwawaclassroom--5.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":16687967,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/01\/14\/vipwawaclassroom--5.jpg?itok=hm3gbnly"}}},"media_ids":["678994"],"groups":[{"id":"372221","name":"Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686521":{"#nid":"686521","#data":{"type":"news","title":"LIDAR Lab-mates Moving Humanoid Robots Closer to Adaptability in the Real World","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EViral videos abound with humanoid robots performing amazing feats of acrobatics and dance but finding videos of a humanoid robot performing a common household task or traversing a new multi-terrain environment easily, and without human control, are much rarer. This is because training humanoid robots to perform these seemingly simple functions involves the need for simulation training data that lack the complex\u0026nbsp;dynamics and degrees of freedom of motion that are inherent in humanoid robots.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo achieve better training outcomes with faster\u0026nbsp;deployment results, Fukang Liu and Feiyang Wu, graduate students under Professor Ye Zhao from the Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering and faculty member of the Institute for Robotics and Intelligent Machines, have published a duo of papers in IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters.\u0026nbsp;This is a collaborative work with three other IRIM affiliated faculties, Profs. Danfei Xu, Yue Chen, and Sehoon Ha, as well as Prof. Anqi Wu from School of Computational Science and Engineering.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo\u0026nbsp;develop more reliable motion learning for humanoid robots and enable humanoid robots to perform complex whole-body movements in the real world,\u0026nbsp;Fukang led a team and developed Opt2Skill, a hybrid robot learning framework that combines model-based trajectory optimization with reinforcement learning. \u0026nbsp;Their framework integrates dynamics and contacts into the trajectory planning process and generates high-quality, dynamically feasible datasets, which result in more reliable motion learning for humanoid robots and improved position tracking and task success rates. This approach shows a promising way to augment the performance and generalization of humanoid RL policies using dynamically feasible motion datasets. Incorporating torque data also improved motion stability and force tracking in contact-rich scenarios, demonstrating that torque information plays a key role in learning physically consistent and contact-rich humanoid behaviors.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile other datasets, such as inverse kinematics or human demonstrations, are valuable, they don\u2019t always capture the dynamics needed for reliable whole-body humanoid control.\u201d said by Fukang Liu. \u201cWith our Opt2Skill framework, we combine trajectory optimization with reinforcement learning to generate and leverage high-quality, dynamically feasible motion data. This integrated approach gives robots a richer and more physically grounded training process, enabling them to learn these complex tasks more reliably and safely for real-world deployment. - Fukang Liu\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/blockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn another line of humanoid research,\u0026nbsp;Feiyang established a one-stage training framework that allows humanoid robots to learn locomotion more efficiently and with greater environmental adaptability. Their framework, Learn-to-Teach (L2T), unlike traditional two-stage \u201cteacher-student\u201d approaches, which first train an expert in simulation and then retrain a limited-perception student, teaches both simultaneously, sharing knowledge and experiences in real time. The result of this two-way training is a 50% reduction in training data and time, while maintaining or surpassing state-of-the-art performance in humanoid locomotion. The lightweight policy learned through this process enables the lab\u2019s humanoid robot to traverse more than a dozen real-world terrains\u2014grass, gravel, sand, stairs, and slopes\u2014without retraining or depth sensors.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy training an expert and a deployable controller together, we can turn rich simulation feedback into a lightweight policy that runs on real hardware, letting our humanoid adapt to uneven, unstructured terrain with far less data and hand-tuning than traditional methods. - Feiyang Wu\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/blockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy the application of these training processes, the team hopes to speed the development of deployable humanoid robots for home use, manufacturing, defense, and search and rescue assistance in dangerous environments. These methods also support advances in embodied intelligence, enabling robots to learn richer, more context-aware behaviors.Additionally, the training data process can be applied to research to improve the functionality and adaptability of human assistive devices for medical and therapeutic uses.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs humanoid robots move from controlled labs into messy, unpredictable real-world environments, the key is developing embodied intelligence\u2014the ability for robots to sense, adapt, and act through their physical bodies,\u201d said Professor Ye Zhao. \u201cThe innovations from our students push us closer to robots that can learn robust skills, navigate diverse terrains, and ultimately operate safely and reliably alongside people. - Prof. Ye Zhao\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/blockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAuthor - Christa M. Ernst\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECitations\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELiu F, Gu Z, Cai Y, Zhou Z, Jung H, Jang J, Zhao S, Ha S, Chen Y, Xu D, Zhao Y. Opt2skill: Imitating dynamically-feasible whole-body trajectories for versatile humanoid loco-manipulation. IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters. 2025 Oct 13.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWu F, Nal X, Jang J, Zhu W, Gu Z, Wu A, Zhao Y. Learn to teach: Sample-efficient privileged learning for humanoid locomotion over real-world uneven terrain. IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters. 2025 Jul 23.\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"Dual publications on learning methods that improve agility and versatility in complex task completion"}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ETo achieve better training outcomes with faster\u0026nbsp;deployment results, Fukang Liu and Feiyang Wu, graduate students under Professor Ye Zhao from the Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering and faculty member of the Institute for Robotics and Intelligent Machines, have published a duo of papers in IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters.\u0026nbsp;This is a collaborative work with three other IRIM affiliated faculties, Profs. Danfei Xu, Yue Chen, and Sehoon Ha, as well as Prof. Anqi Wu from School of Computational Science and Engineering.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"To achieve better training outcomes with faster deployment results, Fukang Liu and Feiyang Wu have published a duo of papers in IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters."}],"uid":"27863","created_gmt":"2025-11-18 20:40:13","changed_gmt":"2026-01-14 15:00:51","author":"Christa Ernst","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-11-18T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-11-18T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678666":{"id":"678666","type":"image","title":"Digit-Team-6-11_8_25-CME-for-Nov-LIDAR-News.png","body":"\u003Cp\u003EMembers of the LIDAR Lab involved with the research with the DIGIT robot used in the trainings.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1763498422","gmt_created":"2025-11-18 20:40:22","changed":"1763498422","gmt_changed":"2025-11-18 20:40:22","alt":"The LIDAR Research Team with Digit Robot","file":{"fid":"262724","name":"Digit-Team-6-11_8_25-CME-for-Nov-LIDAR-News.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/18\/Digit-Team-6-11_8_25-CME-for-Nov-LIDAR-News.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/18\/Digit-Team-6-11_8_25-CME-for-Nov-LIDAR-News.png","mime":"image\/png","size":5426313,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/18\/Digit-Team-6-11_8_25-CME-for-Nov-LIDAR-News.png?itok=FmwisY4a"}}},"media_ids":["678666"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/opt2skill.github.io\/","title":" Opt2Skill on GitHub"},{"url":"https:\/\/lidar-learn-to-teach.github.io\/","title":"Learn-to-Teach (L2T) on GitHub"}],"groups":[{"id":"1278","name":"College of Sciences"},{"id":"142761","name":"IRIM"}],"categories":[{"id":"194606","name":"Artificial Intelligence"},{"id":"145","name":"Engineering"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"152","name":"Robotics"},{"id":"134","name":"Student and Faculty"},{"id":"8862","name":"Student Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"188087","name":"go-irim"},{"id":"186857","name":"go-gtmi"},{"id":"192863","name":"go-ai"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"98751","name":"College of Engineering; George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering"},{"id":"654","name":"College of Computing"},{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"193655","name":"Artificial Intelligence at Georgia Tech"},{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"},{"id":"39521","name":"Robotics"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EChrista M. Ernst\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EResearch Communications Program Manager\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EKlaus Advance Computing Building 1120E | 266 Ferst Drive | Atlanta GA | 30332\u003C\/div\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["christa.ernst@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"687242":{"#nid":"687242","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Energy Policy and Innovation Center Launches Interactive Dashboard ","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEnergy Policy and Innovation Center\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E (EPIcenter) has collaborated with\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/spp.gatech.edu\/people\/person\/daniel-matisoff\u0022\u003EDan Matisoff\u003C\/a\u003E, professor in the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/spp.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EJimmy and Rosalynn Carter School of Public Policy\u003C\/a\u003E and EPIcenter\u2019s faculty affiliate, to develop a new\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/saf\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Data Dashboard\u003C\/strong\u003E,\u003C\/a\u003E designed to provide clear, accessible insights into the rapidly evolving SAF market.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe interactive dashboard compiles and visualizes data gathered by\u0026nbsp;Matisoff, along with\u0026nbsp;Program and Operations Manager\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/spp.gatech.edu\/people\/person\/2af53a9b-d638-574a-a72e-567d586c3cef\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMichael Morley\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E,\u0026nbsp;offering a comprehensive view of SAF production, feedstock availability, and policy trends.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEPIcenter Research Associate \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/people-yang-you\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYang You\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E has designed the dashboard to translate complex datasets into policy-relevant insights for decision-makers. By organizing key metrics into interactive visuals, the dashboard helps stakeholders assess market readiness and identify regulatory actions that could accelerate SAF adoption.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEmphasizing the importance of data-driven insights, Matisoff said, \u201cThe Department of Energy has a Grand Challenge to produce 3 billion gallons a year of Sustainable Aviation Fuel by 2030, and 35 billion gallons a year by 2050. By compiling and visualizing SAF data, we can help policymakers and researchers understand progress towards these goals, where the key opportunities and bottlenecks are \u2013 and how to move forward effectively\u201d.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhy SAF Matters\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EWhile aviation only accounts for about 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions, it is a rapidly growing share, and decarbonizing this sector is considered one of the most challenging aspects of the energy transition. Produced from renewable feedstocks, sustainable aviation fuel offers a pathway to reduce lifecycle emissions from air travel without requiring major changes to aircraft or infrastructure. However, SAF production and deployment face hurdles related to cost, supply chain development, and policy support.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEPIcenter\u2019s Director \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/energy.gatech.edu\/people\/laura-taylor\u0022\u003ELaura Taylor\u003C\/a\u003E highlighted the dashboard\u2019s role in addressing these challenges:\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cSustainable aviation fuel is a cornerstone of decarbonizing air travel, but the market is complex and rapidly evolving. The dashboard provides clarity by organizing the relevant data in a way that\u2019s accessible and actionable for decision-makers.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThis tool is meant to bridge analysis and action,\u201d said You. \u201cBy visualizing SAF production, capacity, and offtake dynamics, the dashboard allows policymakers and stakeholders to see where the market is moving, where gaps remain, and how targeted infrastructure investments or supportive policies could unlock scale.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe EPIcenter SAF Dashboard is intended as a resource for industry leaders, policymakers, and researchers working to accelerate SAF adoption. By providing transparent, data-driven insights, Georgia Tech aims to support informed decisions that advance innovation and sustainability in aviation.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo explore the dashboard and learn more about Georgia Tech\u2019s work on sustainable aviation fuel, visit\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/saf\/\u0022\u003EEPIcenter\u2019s SAF page\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEnergy Policy and Innovation Center\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E (EPIcenter) has collaborated with\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/spp.gatech.edu\/people\/person\/daniel-matisoff\u0022\u003EDan Matisoff\u003C\/a\u003E, professor in the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/spp.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EJimmy and Rosalynn Carter School of Public Policy\u003C\/a\u003E and EPIcenter\u2019s faculty affiliate, to develop a new\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/saf\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Data Dashboard\u003C\/strong\u003E,\u003C\/a\u003E designed to provide clear, accessible insights into the rapidly evolving SAF market.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech\u2019s Energy Policy and Innovation Center has collaborated with Dan Matisoff, EPIcenter\u2019s faculty affiliate, to develop a new Sustainable Aviation Fuel Data Dashboard to provide clear, accessible insights into the rapidly evolving SAF market. "}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2026-01-13 17:04:00","changed_gmt":"2026-01-13 17:10:35","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-01-13T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-01-13T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678970":{"id":"678970","type":"image","title":"SAFDashboard-AdobeStock.jpeg","body":null,"created":"1768324007","gmt_created":"2026-01-13 17:06:47","changed":"1768324007","gmt_changed":"2026-01-13 17:06:47","alt":"Fuel Truck carrying Sustainable Aviation Fuel near an airplane","file":{"fid":"263073","name":"SAFDashboard-AdobeStock.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/13\/SAFDashboard-AdobeStock.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/13\/SAFDashboard-AdobeStock.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":831898,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/01\/13\/SAFDashboard-AdobeStock.jpeg?itok=bJdX1-Z0"}}},"media_ids":["678970"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/saf\/","title":"EPIcenter SAF Dashboard"}],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"},{"id":"660398","name":"Sustainability Hub"}],"categories":[{"id":"131","name":"Economic Development and Policy"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"151","name":"Policy, Social Sciences, and Liberal Arts"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"194611","name":"State Impact"},{"id":"194836","name":"Sustainability"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EPriya Devarajan\u003C\/a\u003E || SEI Communications Program Manager\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"687042":{"#nid":"687042","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Climbs to No. 2 University in Federally Sponsored Research Expenditures","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUniversity research drives U.S. innovation, and Georgia Institute of Technology is leading the way.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe latest \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ncses.nsf.gov\/surveys\/higher-education-research-development\/2024#data\u0022\u003EHigher Education Research and Development (HERD) Survey\u003C\/a\u003E from the National Science Foundation (NSF) places Georgia Tech as No. 2 nationally for federally sponsored research expenditures in 2024. This is Georgia Tech\u2019s highest-ever ranking from the NSF HERD survey and a 70% increase over the Institute\u0027s 2019 numbers.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn total expenditures from all externally funded dollars (including the federal government, foundations, industry, etc.), Georgia Tech is ranked at No. 6.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETech remains ranked No. 1 among universities without a medical school \u2014 a major accomplishment, as medical schools account for a quarter of all research expenditures nationally.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cGeorgia Tech\u2019s rise to No. 2 in federally sponsored research expenditures reflects the extraordinary talent and commitment of our faculty, staff, students, and partners. This achievement demonstrates the confidence federal agencies have in our ability to deliver transformative research that addresses the nation\u2019s most critical challenges,\u201d said Tim Lieuwen, executive vice president for Research.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOverall, the state of Georgia maintained its No. 8 position in university research and development, and for the first time, the state topped the $4 billion mark in research expenditures. Georgia Tech provides $1.5 billion, the largest state university contribution. In the last five years, federal funding for higher education research in the state of Georgia has grown an astounding 46% \u2014 10 points higher than the U.S. rate.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELieuwen said, \u201cGeorgia Tech is proud to lead the state in research contributions, helping Georgia surpass the $4 billion mark for the first time. Our work doesn\u2019t just advance knowledge \u2014 it saves lives, creates jobs, and strengthens national security. This growth reflects our commitment to drive innovation that benefits Georgia, our country, and the world.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ch4\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAbout the NSF HERD Survey\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/h4\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe NSF HERD Survey is an annual census of U.S. colleges and universities that expended at least $150,000 in separately accounted for research and development (R\u0026amp;D) in the fiscal year. The survey collects information on R\u0026amp;D expenditures by field of research and source of funds and also gathers information on types of research, expenses, and headcounts of R\u0026amp;D personnel.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ch4\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAbout Georgia Tech\u0027s Research Enterprise\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/h4\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe research enterprise at Georgia Tech is led by the Executive Vice President for Research, Tim Lieuwen, and directs a portfolio of research, development, and sponsored activities. This includes leadership of the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI), the Enterprise Innovation Institute, 11 interdisciplinary research institutes (IRIs), Office of Commercialization, Office of Corporate Engagement, plus research centers, and related research administrative support units. Georgia Tech routinely ranks among the top U.S. universities in volume of research conducted.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"This is the Institute\u2019s best ranking in the National Science Foundation\u2019s annual survey."}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EUniversity research drives U.S. innovation, and Georgia Institute of Technology is leading the way. \u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"This is the Institute\u2019s best ranking in the National Science Foundation\u2019s annual survey."}],"uid":"27561","created_gmt":"2026-01-02 15:18:43","changed_gmt":"2026-01-08 20:52:49","author":"Angela Ayers","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-01-05T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-01-05T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678906":{"id":"678906","type":"image","title":"20250911_IBB_ChipLung-08.jpg","body":null,"created":"1767367131","gmt_created":"2026-01-02 15:18:51","changed":"1767367131","gmt_changed":"2026-01-02 15:18:51","alt":"Two Georgia Tech researchers looking at a biomedical chip.","file":{"fid":"263002","name":"20250911_IBB_ChipLung-08.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/02\/20250911_IBB_ChipLung-08_0.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/02\/20250911_IBB_ChipLung-08_0.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":89262,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/01\/02\/20250911_IBB_ChipLung-08_0.jpg?itok=65G0LzgZ"}}},"media_ids":["678906"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"},{"id":"1278","name":"College of Sciences"},{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"193655","name":"Artificial Intelligence at Georgia Tech"},{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"},{"id":"193658","name":"Commercialization"},{"id":"145171","name":"Cybersecurity"},{"id":"39431","name":"Data Engineering and Science"},{"id":"39451","name":"Electronics and Nanotechnology"},{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"193654","name":"Enterprise Innovation Institute"},{"id":"193653","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute"},{"id":"39461","name":"Manufacturing, Trade, and Logistics"},{"id":"39471","name":"Materials"},{"id":"193652","name":"Matter and Systems"},{"id":"39481","name":"National Security"},{"id":"193656","name":"Neuro Next Initiative"},{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"},{"id":"39511","name":"Public Service, Leadership, and Policy"},{"id":"39491","name":"Renewable Bioproducts"},{"id":"39521","name":"Robotics"},{"id":"193657","name":"Space Research Initiative"},{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"},{"id":"39541","name":"Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71881","name":"Science and Technology"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:angela.ayers@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EAngela Ayers\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EAssistant Vice President of Research Communications\u003Cbr\u003EGeorgia Tech\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"687094":{"#nid":"687094","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Solar-powered Fa\u00e7ade Panel System Wins Seed Grant Award","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Institute for People and Technology (IPaT) and the College of Design (CoD) awarded a seed grant to Christian Coles, lecturer in the School of Architecture; Moinak Choudhury, Ph.D., lecturer in the School of Literature, Media, and Communication (LMC); and Janelle Wright, environmental justice programs manager, at the West Atlanta Watershed Alliance (WAWA). Coles will serve as the principal investigator with Choudhury and Wright serving as the co-principal investigators.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETheir project, \u201cDesigning Futures: Afrofuturist Co-Creation with AI for Community-Led Facade Design\u201d will be realized during a 16-week design studio (ARCH 4016) class that will take place during fall 2026 and serve senior undergraduate architecture students. Participants from diverse majors will join through the Building for Equity and Sustainability Vertically Integrated Project (VIP) team, in partnership with the Center for Sustainable Communities Research and Education (SCoRE). Pre-planning tasks will occur spring semester in preparation for the fall studio class.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe studio class will collaborate with Moinak Choudhury and students in LMC 3403, who bring expertise in technical communication, responsible AI use, and community-based learning to co-create engagement materials and public-facing documentation that strengthen the project\u2019s interdisciplinary links between design, sustainability, and communication.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe final result of the project encompasses students who will design and install a modular, solar-powered fa\u00e7ade panel system for the outdoor classroom on WAWA\u2019s campus. This project \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/saportareport.com\/touching-grass\/sections\/reports\/mark-lannaman\/\u0022\u003Eextends work done by a previous Georgia Tech VIP team\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe panels will serve multiple functions: participatory community engagement, artistic expression, and climate regulation. This project will advance the classroom toward its intended vision as an Afrofuturist learning space with technological nods to the Keneda Building on Georgia Tech\u2019s campus. With the help of this seed grant, interdisciplinary team members will delve into design, engineering, computing, communication, and community partnership.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Institute for People and Technology (IPaT) and the College of Design (CoD) awarded a seed grant to Christian Coles, lecturer in the School of Architecture; Moinak Choudhury, Ph.D., lecturer in the School of Literature, Media, and Communication (LMC); and Janelle Wright, environmental justice programs manager, at the West Atlanta Watershed Alliance (WAWA).\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The Institute for People and Technology (IPaT) and the College of Design (CoD) awarded a seed grant to Christian Coles, lecturer in the School of Architecture; Moinak Choudhury, Ph.D., lecturer in the School of Literature, Media, and Communication (LMC); "}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2026-01-06 19:06:48","changed_gmt":"2026-01-06 19:07:43","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2026-01-06T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2026-01-06T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678930":{"id":"678930","type":"image","title":"Pictured are Christian Coles (left) and Moinak Choudhury (right).","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EPictured are Christian Coles (left) and Moinak Choudhury (right).\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1767726318","gmt_created":"2026-01-06 19:05:18","changed":"1767726358","gmt_changed":"2026-01-06 19:05:58","alt":"Pictured are Christian Coles (left) and Moinak Choudhury (right).","file":{"fid":"263027","name":"2-researchers-side-by-side.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/06\/2-researchers-side-by-side.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2026\/01\/06\/2-researchers-side-by-side.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":690854,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2026\/01\/06\/2-researchers-side-by-side.jpg?itok=a-3433Mi"}}},"media_ids":["678930"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWalter Rich\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["walter.rich@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686920":{"#nid":"686920","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Energy Insecurity Linked to Higher Rates of Anxiety and Depression, School of Public Policy Study Finds","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA new \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/jamanetwork.com\/journals\/jamanetworkopen\/fullarticle\/2840540\u0022 title=\u0022null\u0022\u003Estudy\u003C\/a\u003E from the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School of Public Policy identifies energy insecurity \u2014 the inability to meet basic household energy needs \u2014 as a critical, yet often overlooked, social determinant of health.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWhile we often talk about food and housing insecurity, fewer people recognize energy as a basic necessity that shapes not only comfort, but also safety and stress,\u201d said Assistant Professor \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/iac.gatech.edu\/people\/person\/f276dd8a-0e13-5b66-b4cf-3d2960e01b2d\u0022 title=\u0022null\u0022\u003EMichelle Graff\u003C\/a\u003E, who co-authored the paper published in \u003Cem\u003EJAMA Network Open\u003C\/em\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnalyzing data from the U.S. Census Bureau\u2019s Household Pulse Survey, the researchers found that 43% of households experienced energy insecurity in the past year. Among respondents who reduced spending on necessities to cover energy bills, nearly 39% reported symptoms of anxiety and 32% reported symptoms of depression \u2014 more than twice the incidence among respondents who didn\u2019t need to make that tradeoff.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cBeing able to afford your home does not guarantee you can afford to safely heat, cool, or power it,\u201d Graff said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESuch instability disproportionately affects Black and Hispanic households, renters, and families dependent on electronic medical devices, Graff said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd while the study was not designed to explain whether energy insecurity causes mental health issues or some other dynamic is at work, Graff said it\u2019s incontrovertible that these groups face compounding stressors. Living in inefficient housing can lead to higher bills and unsafe temperatures, disrupting sleep and health. When combined with the financial anxiety of potential utility shutoffs and the need to sacrifice food or medicine to pay bills, these trade-offs create a cycle of chronic stress, she said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAmong other recommendations, Graff said healthcare providers should start screening for energy insecurity just as they do for food insecurity.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe view this primarily as a data-collection initiative designed to generate the evidence needed to inform future policy recommendations and program improvements,\u201d Graff said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGraff is continuing to explore these issues with \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.google.com\/search?q=spp.gatech.edu\u0022 title=\u0022null\u0022\u003ECarter School\u003C\/a\u003E graduate students, including recent \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S1040619025000661?via%3Dihub\u0022\u003Ework\u003C\/a\u003E on state-level aid implementation with Ph.D. student Ryan Anthony and upcoming research with other students on how energy insecurity impacts eviction rates.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe article, \u201cEnergy Insecurity and Mental Health Symptoms in US Adults,\u201d was published Oct. 27, 2025, in JAMA Network Open. It is available at \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi:10.1001\/jamanetworkopen.2025.39479\u0022\u003Ehttps:\/\/doi:10.1001\/jamanetworkopen.2025.39479\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe study links energy insecurity to significantly higher rates of anxiety and depression in U.S. households.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The study links energy insecurity to significantly higher rates of anxiety and depression in U.S. households."}],"uid":"34600","created_gmt":"2025-12-16 20:44:16","changed_gmt":"2026-01-06 14:02:04","author":"mpearson34","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-12-16T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-12-16T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678862":{"id":"678862","type":"image","title":"energy-insecurity-mental-health.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EEnergy insecurity is a significant financial problem, and potentially a major mental health issue, for millions of Americans.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1765917961","gmt_created":"2025-12-16 20:46:01","changed":"1765917961","gmt_changed":"2025-12-16 20:46:01","alt":"A woman wearing a hat and warm clothing prepares food in her kitchen.","file":{"fid":"262952","name":"energy-insecurity-mental-health.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/16\/energy-insecurity-mental-health.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/16\/energy-insecurity-mental-health.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":979742,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/12\/16\/energy-insecurity-mental-health.jpg?itok=FVTsWXlA"}},"678864":{"id":"678864","type":"image","title":"Michelle Graff","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAssistant Professor Michelle Graff.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1765918275","gmt_created":"2025-12-16 20:51:15","changed":"1765918275","gmt_changed":"2025-12-16 20:51:15","alt":"\u0022\u0022","file":{"fid":"262954","name":"fb50e65939f4bc3d6cdd1f16.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/16\/fb50e65939f4bc3d6cdd1f16.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/16\/fb50e65939f4bc3d6cdd1f16.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":15260,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/12\/16\/fb50e65939f4bc3d6cdd1f16.jpg?itok=MqO7ho_j"}}},"media_ids":["678862","678864"],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71901","name":"Society and Culture"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:michael.pearson@iac.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EMichael Pearson\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EIvan Allen College of Liberal Arts\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["michael.pearson@iac.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"679305":{"#nid":"679305","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Finalists Chosen in Georgia Tech\u2019s Executive Vice President for Research Search","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s Executive Vice President for Research search committee has selected three finalists. Each candidate will visit campus and present a seminar sharing their broad vision for the Institute\u0027s research enterprise. The seminars are open to all faculty, students, and staff across the campus community. Interested individuals can attend in person or register to participate via Zoom (pre-registration is required).\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/finalists-chosen-georgia-techs-executive-vice-president-research-search\u0022\u003ERead more \u00bb\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s Executive Vice President for Research search committee has selected three finalists. Each candidate will visit campus and present a seminar sharing their broad vision for the Institute\u0027s research enterprise.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech\u2019s Executive Vice President for Research search committee has selected three finalists."}],"uid":"27255","created_gmt":"2025-01-08 16:27:57","changed_gmt":"2026-01-01 18:36:45","author":"Josie Giles","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-01-07T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-01-07T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"675965":{"id":"675965","type":"image","title":"19C10400-P19-001-Web Use - 1,000px Wide.jpg","body":null,"created":"1736299056","gmt_created":"2025-01-08 01:17:36","changed":"1736299056","gmt_changed":"2025-01-08 01:17:36","alt":"Historical sign depicting information about Tech Tower","file":{"fid":"259654","name":"19C10400-P19-001-Web Use - 1,000px Wide.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/01\/07\/19C10400-P19-001-Web%20Use%20-%201%2C000px%20Wide.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/01\/07\/19C10400-P19-001-Web%20Use%20-%201%2C000px%20Wide.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":396225,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/01\/07\/19C10400-P19-001-Web%20Use%20-%201%2C000px%20Wide.jpg?itok=xSqO86Zk"}}},"media_ids":["675965"],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"}],"keywords":[{"id":"172970","name":"go-neuro"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"193652","name":"Matter and Systems"},{"id":"193656","name":"Neuro Next Initiative"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"679709":{"#nid":"679709","#data":{"type":"news","title":" 2024\u2019s Extreme Ocean Heat Breaks Records Again, Leaving 2 Mysteries to Solve","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv class=\u0022theconversation-article-body\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe oceans are heating up as the planet warms.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis past year, 2024, was the warmest ever measured for the global ocean, following a record-breaking 2023. In fact, every decade since 1984, when satellite recordkeeping of ocean temperatures started, has been \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/climatereanalyzer.org\/clim\/sst_daily\/?dm_id=world2\u0022\u003Ewarmer than the previous one\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA warmer ocean means increased evaporation, which in turn results in heavier rains in some areas and droughts in others. It can power hurricanes and downpours. It can also harm the health of coastal marine areas and sea life \u2013 coral reefs suffered their \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.reuters.com\/business\/environment\/global-coral-bleaching-event-expands-now-largest-record-2024-10-17\/\u0022\u003Emost extensive bleaching event on record in 2024\u003C\/a\u003E, with damage in many parts of the world.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWarming ocean water also affects temperatures on land by changing weather patterns. The EU\u2019s Copernicus Climate Change Service announced on Jan. 10 that data showed 2024 had also broken the record for the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/climate.copernicus.eu\/global-climate-highlights-2024\u0022\u003Ewarmest year globally\u003C\/a\u003E, with global temperatures about 2.9 degrees Fahrenheit (1.6 Celsius) above pre-industrial times. That would mark the first full calendar year with average \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.un.org\/en\/climatechange\/science\/climate-issues\/degrees-matter\u0022\u003Ewarming above 1.5 C\u003C\/a\u003E, a level countries had \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/after-cop27-all-signs-point-to-world-blowing-past-the-1-5-degrees-global-warming-limit-heres-what-we-can-still-do-about-it-195080\u0022\u003Eagreed to try to avoid\u003C\/a\u003E passing long-term.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EClimate change, by and large, takes the blame. Greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere trap heat, and about \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.climate.gov\/news-features\/understanding-climate\/climate-change-ocean-heat-content\u0022\u003E90% of the excess heat caused by emissions\u003C\/a\u003E from burning fossil fuels and other human activities is absorbed by the ocean.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut while it\u2019s clear that the ocean has been warming for quite some time, its temperatures over the past two years have been far above the previous decades. That leaves two mysteries for scientists.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EIt\u2019s Not Just El Ni\u00f1o\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe cyclic climate pattern of the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.climate.gov\/news-features\/blogs\/enso\/what-el-ni%C3%B1o%E2%80%93southern-oscillation-enso-nutshell\u0022\u003EEl Ni\u00f1o Southern Oscillation\u003C\/a\u003E can explain part of the warmth over the past two years.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDuring \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/el-nino-is-starting-to-lose-strength-after-fueling-a-hot-stormy-year-but-its-still-powerful-an-atmospheric-scientist-explains-whats-ahead-for-2024-223013\u0022\u003EEl Ni\u00f1o periods\u003C\/a\u003E, warm waters that usually accumulate in the western equatorial Pacific Ocean move eastward toward the coastlines of Peru and Chile, leaving the Earth slightly warmer overall. The \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/el-nino-is-back-thats-good-news-or-bad-news-depending-on-where-you-live-205974\u0022\u003Elatest El Ni\u00f1o began in 2023\u003C\/a\u003E and caused global average temperatures to rise well \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.climate.gov\/news-features\/blogs\/enso\/july-2024-enso-update-summer-vacation\u0022\u003Einto early 2024\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut the oceans have been even warmer than scientists expected. For example, global temperatures in 2023-2024 followed a \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/climatereanalyzer.org\/clim\/sst_daily\/?dm_id=world2\u0022\u003Esimilar growth and decline pattern\u003C\/a\u003E across the seasons as the previous El Ni\u00f1o event, in 2015-2016, but they were about 0.36 degrees Fahrenheit (0.2 Celsius) higher at all times in 2023-2024.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EScientists are puzzled and left with two problems to solve. They must figure out whether something else contributed to the unexpected warming and whether the past two years have been a sign of a sudden acceleration in global warming.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe Role of Aerosols\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAn intriguing idea, tested using climate models, is that a swift \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s41467-023-42891-2\u0022\u003Ereduction in aerosols\u003C\/a\u003E over the past decade may be one of the culprits.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAerosols are solid and liquid particles emitted by human and natural sources into the atmosphere. Some of them have been shown to partially counteract the impact of greenhouse gases by reflecting solar radiation back into space. However, they also are responsible for poor air quality and air pollution.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMany of these particles with cooling properties are generated in the process of burning fossil fuels. For example, sulfur aerosols are emitted by ship engines and power plants. In 2020, the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.imo.org\/en\/MediaCentre\/PressBriefings\/pages\/34-IMO-2020-sulphur-limit-.aspx\u0022\u003Eshipping industry implemented\u003C\/a\u003E a nearly \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1029\/2024GL109077\u0022\u003E80% cut in sulfur emissions\u003C\/a\u003E, and many companies shifted to low-sulfur fuels. But the larger impact has come from power plants reducing their emissions, including a big shift in this direction in China. So, while technologies have cut these harmful emissions, that means a brake slowing the pace of warming is weakened.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EIs This a Warming Surge?\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe second puzzle is whether the planet is seeing a warming surge or not.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETemperatures are clearly rising, but the past two years have not been warm enough to support the notion that we may be seeing an acceleration in the rate of global warming.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnalysis of four temperature datasets covering the 1850-2023 period has shown that the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s43247-024-01711-1\u0022\u003Erate of warming has not shown a significant change\u003C\/a\u003E since around the 1970s. The same authors, however, noted that only a rate increase of at least 55% \u2013 about half a degree Celsius and nearly a full degree Fahrenheit over one year \u2013 would make the warming acceleration detectable in a statistical sense.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFrom a statistical standpoint, then, scientists cannot exclude the possibility that the 2023-2024 record ocean warming resulted simply from the \u201cusual\u201d warming trend that humans have set the planet on for the past 50 years. A very strong El Ni\u00f1o contributed some natural variability.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFrom a practical standpoint, however, the extraordinary impacts the planet has witnessed \u2013 including extreme weather, heat waves, wildfires, coral bleaching and ecosystem destruction \u2013 point to a need to swiftly reduce carbon dioxide emissions to limit ocean warming, regardless of whether this is a continuation of an ongoing trend or an acceleration.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis article has been updated with Copernicus Climate Change Service\u2019s global 2024 temperature data.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C!-- Below is The Conversation\u0027s page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --\u003E\u003Cimg style=\u0022border-color:!important;border-style:none;box-shadow:none !important;margin:0 !important;max-height:1px !important;max-width:1px !important;min-height:1px !important;min-width:1px !important;opacity:0 !important;outline:none !important;padding:0 !important;\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/counter.theconversation.com\/content\/246843\/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic\u0022 alt=\u0022The Conversation\u0022 width=\u00221\u0022 height=\u00221\u0022 referrerpolicy=\u0022no-referrer-when-downgrade\u0022\u003E\u003C!-- End of code. If you don\u0027t see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https:\/\/theconversation.com\/republishing-guidelines --\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis article is republished from \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThe Conversation\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E under a Creative Commons license. Read the \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/2024s-extreme-ocean-heat-breaks-records-again-leaving-2-mysteries-to-solve-246843\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003Eoriginal article\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"full_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EIn fact, every decade since 1984, when satellite recordkeeping of ocean temperatures started, has been warmer than the previous one.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"In fact, every decade since 1984, when satellite recordkeeping of ocean temperatures started, has been warmer than the previous one."}],"uid":"27469","created_gmt":"2025-01-17 16:27:48","changed_gmt":"2026-01-01 18:35:52","author":"Kristen Bailey","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-01-09T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-01-09T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"676055":{"id":"676055","type":"image","title":" The global ocean\u2019s surface temperature was still well above average going into 2025. Meaghan Skinner Photography\/Moment via Getty Images","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;The global ocean\u2019s surface temperature was still well above average going into 2025. Meaghan Skinner Photography\/Moment via Getty Images\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1737131416","gmt_created":"2025-01-17 16:30:16","changed":"1737131416","gmt_changed":"2025-01-17 16:30:16","alt":" The global ocean\u2019s surface temperature was still well above average going into 2025. Meaghan Skinner Photography\/Moment via Getty Images","file":{"fid":"259762","name":"file-20250109-19-4cps5m.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/01\/17\/file-20250109-19-4cps5m_0.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/01\/17\/file-20250109-19-4cps5m_0.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":240626,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/01\/17\/file-20250109-19-4cps5m_0.jpg?itok=tEB_EbXq"}}},"media_ids":["676055"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/theconversation.com\/2024s-extreme-ocean-heat-breaks-records-again-leaving-2-mysteries-to-solve-246843","title":"Read This Story on The Conversation"}],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"}],"keywords":[{"id":"479","name":"Green Buzz"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71911","name":"Earth and Environment"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Ch5\u003EAuthor:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/profiles\/annalisa-bracco-1447820\u0022\u003EAnnalisa Bracco\u003C\/a\u003E, Professor of Ocean and Climate Dynamics, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/institutions\/georgia-institute-of-technology-1310\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EGeorgia Institute of Technology\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch5\u003EMedia Contact:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShelley Wunder-Smith\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:shelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003Eshelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"679640":{"#nid":"679640","#data":{"type":"news","title":"The Year in Photos","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EFrom the physics of knitting to highlighting how batteries work, Georgia Tech photographers captured the impact and breadth of the Institute\u2019s research enterprise. See our best shots and discover unseen gems in this collection.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/feature\/2024-photos\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERead more \u00bb\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"Georgia Tech Research looks back at 2024."}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EFrom the physics of knitting to highlighting how batteries work, Georgia Tech photographers captured the impact and breadth of the Institute\u2019s research enterprise.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":" See our photographers\u2019 best shots and discover unseen gems in this collection. "}],"uid":"27255","created_gmt":"2025-01-15 18:13:52","changed_gmt":"2026-01-01 18:32:23","author":"Josie Giles","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-01-22T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-01-22T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"676028":{"id":"676028","type":"image","title":"Krishma Singal sitting at a knitting machine","body":"\u003Cp\u003EKrishma Singal operates a knitting machine to create fabric samples for a study.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1736964926","gmt_created":"2025-01-15 18:15:26","changed":"1736965094","gmt_changed":"2025-01-15 18:18:14","alt":"A female student operating a knitting machine in a research lab at Georgia Tech.","file":{"fid":"259730","name":"knitting.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/01\/15\/knitting.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/01\/15\/knitting.png","mime":"image\/png","size":3850176,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/01\/15\/knitting.png?itok=EHjp-uWb"}}},"media_ids":["676028"],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"193652","name":"Matter and Systems"},{"id":"39491","name":"Renewable Bioproducts"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"679801":{"#nid":"679801","#data":{"type":"news","title":"At the Intersection of Climate and AI, Machine Learning is Revolutionizing Climate Science","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EExponential growth in big data and computing power is transforming climate science, where machine learning is playing a critical role in mapping the physics of our changing climate.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u201cWhat is happening within the field is revolutionary,\u201d\u0026nbsp;says\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/eas.gatech.edu\u0022\u003ESchool of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003EAssociate Chair and Professor\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sites.gatech.edu\/annalisabracco\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAnnalisa Bracco\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, adding that because many climate-related processes\u0026nbsp;\u2014 from ocean currents to melting glaciers and weather patterns\u0026nbsp;\u2014 can be described with physical equations, these advancements have the potential to help us understand and predict climate in critically important ways.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EBracco is the lead author of a new review paper providing a comprehensive look at the intersection of AI and climate physics.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EThe result of an international collaboration between Georgia Tech\u2019s Bracco,\u0026nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EJulien Brajard\u003C\/strong\u003E (Nansen Environmental and Remote Sensing Center),\u0026nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EHenk A. Dijkstra\u003C\/strong\u003E (Utrecht University),\u0026nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EPedram Hassanzadeh\u003C\/strong\u003E (University of Chicago),\u0026nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EChristian Lessig\u003C\/strong\u003E (European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts), and\u0026nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EClaire Monteleoni\u003C\/strong\u003E (University of Colorado Boulder), the paper, \u2018\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s42254-024-00776-3\u0022\u003EMachine learning for the physics of climate\u003C\/a\u003E,\u2019\u0026nbsp;was\u0026nbsp;recently published in\u0026nbsp;\u003Cem\u003ENature Reviews Physics\u003C\/em\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u201cOne of our team\u2019s goals was to help people think deeply on how climate science and AI intersect,\u201d Bracco shares. \u201cMachine learning is allowing us to study the physics of climate in a way that was previously impossible. Coupled with increasing amounts of data and observations, we can now investigate climate at scales and resolutions we\u2019ve never been able to before.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EConnecting hidden dots\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EThe team showed that ML is driving change in three key areas: accounting for missing observational data, creating more robust climate models, and enhancing predictions, especially in weather forecasting. However, the research also underscores the limits of AI \u2014 and how researchers can work to fill those gaps.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u201cMachine learning has been fantastic in allowing us to expand the time and the spatial scales for which we have measurements,\u201d says Bracco, explaining that ML could help fill in missing data points \u2014 creating a more robust record for researchers to reference. However, like patching a hole in a shirt, this works best when the rest of the material is intact.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u201cMachine learning can extrapolate from past conditions when observations are abundant, but it can\u2019t yet predict future trends or collect the data we need,\u201d Bracco adds. \u201cTo keep advancing, we need scientists who can determine what data we need, collect that data, and solve problems.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EModeling climate, predicting weather\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EMachine learning is often used when improving climate models that can simulate changing systems like our atmosphere, oceans, land, biochemistry, and ice. \u201cThese models are limited because of our computing power, and are run on a three-dimensional grid,\u201d Bracco explains: below the grid resolution, researchers need to approximate complex physics with simpler equations that computers can solve quickly, a process called \u2018parameterization\u2019.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EMachine learning is changing that, offering new ways to improve parameterizations, she says. \u201cWe can run a model at extremely high resolutions for a short time, so that we don\u2019t need to parameterize as many physical processes \u2014 using machine learning to derive the equations that best approximate what is happening at small scales,\u201d she explains. \u201cThen we can use those equations in a coarser model that we can run for hundreds of years.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EWhile a full climate model based solely on machine learning may remain out of reach, the team found that ML is advancing our ability to accurately predict weather systems and some climate phenomena like El Ni\u00f1o.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EPreviously, weather prediction was based on knowing the starting conditions \u2014 like temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure \u2014 and running a model based on physics equations to predict what might happen next. Now, machine learning is giving researchers the opportunity to learn from the past. \u201cWe can use information on what has happened when there were similar starting conditions in previous situations to predict the future without solving the underlying governing equations,\u201d Bracco says. \u201cAnd all while using orders-of-magnitude less computing resources.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe human connection\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EBracco emphasizes that while AI and ML play a critical role in accelerating research, humans are at the core of progress. \u201cI think the in-person collaboration that led to this paper is, in itself, a testament to the importance of human interaction,\u201d she says, recalling that the research was the result of a workshop organized at the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.kitp.ucsb.edu\/\u0022\u003EKavli Institute for Theoretical Physics\u003C\/a\u003E \u2014 one of the team\u2019s first in-person discussions after the Covid-19 pandemic.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u201cMachine learning is a fantastic tool \u2014 but it\u0027s not the solution to everything,\u201d she adds. \u201cThere is also a real need for human researchers collecting high-quality data, and for interdisciplinary collaboration across fields.\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003EI see this as a big challenge, but a great opportunity for computer scientists and physicists, mathematicians, biologists, and chemists to work together.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFunding\u003C\/strong\u003E: National Science Foundation, European Research Council, Office of Naval Research, US Department of Energy, European Space Agency, Choose France Chair in AI.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDOI\u003C\/strong\u003E:\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s42254-024-00776-3\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003Ehttps:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s42254-024-00776-3\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EA Georgia Tech-led review paper recently published in\u0026nbsp;\u003Cem\u003ENature Reviews Physics\u003C\/em\u003E is exploring the ways machine learning is revolutionizing the field of climate physics \u2014 and the role human scientists might play.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"A Georgia Tech-led review paper recently published in\u00a0Nature Reviews Physics is exploring the ways machine learning is revolutionizing the field of climate physics \u2014 and the role human scientists might play."}],"uid":"35599","created_gmt":"2025-01-22 17:43:30","changed_gmt":"2026-01-01 18:31:44","author":"sperrin6","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-01-22T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-01-22T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"676086":{"id":"676086","type":"image","title":"Researchers launch a a lightweight, balloon-borne instrument to collect data. \u0022To keep advancing, we need scientists who can determine what data we need, collect that data, and solve problems,\u0022 Bracco says. (NOAA)","body":"\u003Cp\u003EResearchers launch a a lightweight, balloon-borne instrument to collect data. \u0022To keep advancing, we need scientists who can determine what data we need, collect that data, and solve problems,\u0022 Bracco says. (NOAA)\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1737567826","gmt_created":"2025-01-22 17:43:46","changed":"1737567826","gmt_changed":"2025-01-22 17:43:46","alt":"Researchers launch a a lightweight, balloon-borne instrument to collect data. \u0022To keep advancing, we need scientists who can determine what data we need, collect that data, and solve problems,\u0022 Bracco says. (NOAA)","file":{"fid":"259801","name":"noaa-5hZJVGPG6vo-unsplash.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/01\/22\/noaa-5hZJVGPG6vo-unsplash.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/01\/22\/noaa-5hZJVGPG6vo-unsplash.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":2094496,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/01\/22\/noaa-5hZJVGPG6vo-unsplash.jpg?itok=KR8SZhoH"}}},"media_ids":["676086"],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"153","name":"Computer Science\/Information Technology and Security"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"150","name":"Physics and Physical Sciences"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"192258","name":"cos-data"},{"id":"192254","name":"cos-climate"},{"id":"192252","name":"cos-planetary"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"193655","name":"Artificial Intelligence at Georgia Tech"},{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"193653","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71911","name":"Earth and Environment"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWritten by \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto: sperrin6@gatech.edu\u0022\u003ESelena Langner\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"680086":{"#nid":"680086","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Andrei Fedorov Selected as Part of Major International Research Initiative in Big Data and AI for Energy","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/me.gatech.edu\/faculty\/fedorov\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAndrei Fedorov\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, Associate Chair for Graduate Studies, Rae S. and Frank H. Neely Chair, and professor in the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, will represent Georgia Tech in a new international research initiative. The program, Adopting Sustainable Partnerships for Innovative Research Ecosystem (ASPIRE) for Top Scientists, is funded by the Japan Science and Technology Agency. It will receive approximately $3.2 million in funding over five years.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe award will support a broad spectrum of multidisciplinary research activities by the multinational teams and intermediate to long-term (three months to one year) collaborative visits to global research sites in Japan, Europe, and the U.S. A total of 46 proposals were submitted to ASPIRE for Top Scientists, out of which 14 were selected by expert evaluation. Each project is an international collaboration and the initiative\u0027s key focus is advancing science and technology on an international level.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFedorov will lead a project titled \u0022Construction of International Data and Analysis Platform for Inorganic Power-storage Materials Informatics with Nano\/Micro-Structur\u003Cem\u003Ee\u0022 \u003C\/em\u003Ethat will explore the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Informatics, and Energy. He will represent Georgia Tech as a principal investigator. The planned research will also involve faculty members and graduate students from College of Engineering schools involved in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/energy\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStrategic Energy Institute\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/news\/andrei-fedorov-selected-part-major-international-research-initiative-big-data-and-ai-energy\u0022\u003ERead the full story on the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering website\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/me.gatech.edu\/faculty\/fedorov\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAndrei Fedorov\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, Associate Chair for Graduate Studies, Rae S. and Frank H. Neely Chair, and professor in the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, will represent Georgia Tech in a new international research initiative. The program, Adopting Sustainable Partnerships for Innovative Research Ecosystem (ASPIRE) for Top Scientists, is funded by the Japan Science and Technology Agency. It will receive approximately $3.2 million in funding over five years.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The program, Adopting Sustainable Partnerships for Innovative Research Ecosystem (ASPIRE) for Top Scientists, is funded by the Japan Science and Technology Agency. It will receive approximately $3.2 million in funding over five years."}],"uid":"35851","created_gmt":"2025-01-30 23:47:24","changed_gmt":"2026-01-01 18:30:05","author":"aritchie6","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-01-24T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-01-24T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"676172":{"id":"676172","type":"image","title":"Andrei_FEdorov_2.jpg","body":null,"created":"1738280919","gmt_created":"2025-01-30 23:48:39","changed":"1738280919","gmt_changed":"2025-01-30 23:48:39","alt":"Andrei Fedorov","file":{"fid":"259901","name":"Andrei_FEdorov_2.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/01\/30\/Andrei_FEdorov_2.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/01\/30\/Andrei_FEdorov_2.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":544740,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/01\/30\/Andrei_FEdorov_2.jpg?itok=bediVLWH"}}},"media_ids":["676172"],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:chloe.arrington@me.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EChloe Arrington\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EGeorge W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"680298":{"#nid":"680298","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Unearthing Climate Solutions","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EFrom new farming practices to paleontology, meet four Georgia Tech researchers who improve the climate and predict its future.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/node\/42455\u0022\u003ERead more \u00bb\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EFrom new farming practices to paleontology, meet four Georgia Tech researchers who improve the climate and predict its future.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech researchers explore how to improve the planet, one rock at a time."}],"uid":"36708","created_gmt":"2025-02-06 20:40:54","changed_gmt":"2026-01-01 18:27:57","author":"twilson338","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-02-06T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-02-06T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"676233":{"id":"676233","type":"image","title":"0A6A6395.jpg","body":null,"created":"1738874566","gmt_created":"2025-02-06 20:42:46","changed":"1738874566","gmt_changed":"2025-02-06 20:42:46","alt":"Student in the lab working with a sample","file":{"fid":"259969","name":"0A6A6395.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/02\/06\/0A6A6395.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/02\/06\/0A6A6395.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":754158,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/02\/06\/0A6A6395.jpg?itok=R8-VcJHc"}}},"media_ids":["676233"],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"39491","name":"Renewable Bioproducts"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"680640":{"#nid":"680640","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Researchers Build Stable Solar Panel Without Silicon","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ESolar power as an electricity source is growing in the United States, with 7% of Americans using it to run their homes. But scientists are still trying to make the solar panel production process more efficient.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/node\/42579\u0022\u003ERead more \u00bb\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ESolar power as an electricity source is growing in the United States, with 7% of Americans using it to run their homes. But scientists are still trying to make the solar panel production process more efficient.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"By adding titanium to perovskite crystals, researchers have made solar cells more durable."}],"uid":"27255","created_gmt":"2025-02-20 19:17:27","changed_gmt":"2026-01-01 18:26:15","author":"Josie Giles","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-02-24T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-02-24T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"676353":{"id":"676353","type":"image","title":"PS Solar_013025-3.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EFor years, Juan-Pablo Correa-Baena\u2019s research group has explored using perovskite crystals as an alternative to silicon. A promising and prevalent replacement, perovskite is made of iodine atoms, lead, and organic elements. It is also as efficient as silicon.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1740079072","gmt_created":"2025-02-20 19:17:52","changed":"1740079284","gmt_changed":"2025-02-20 19:21:24","alt":"male researcher wearing a black glove holds a solar cell prototype","file":{"fid":"260125","name":"PS Solar_013025-3.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/02\/20\/PS%20Solar_013025-3.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/02\/20\/PS%20Solar_013025-3.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":10674598,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/02\/20\/PS%20Solar_013025-3.jpg?itok=95fI8wFw"}}},"media_ids":["676353"],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"}],"keywords":[{"id":"192255","name":"go-commercializationnews"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"193658","name":"Commercialization"},{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"193652","name":"Matter and Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"680763":{"#nid":"680763","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Startup Targets Building Energy Inefficiencies With AI and Drones","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ELamarr.AI leverages AI and drones to autonomously diagnose building energy inefficiencies, reducing carbon emissions. The startup, a collaboration between Georgia Tech, MIT, and Syracuse University, raised $1.1 million in pre-seed funding. Their technology provides detailed diagnostics of building exteriors, helping owners save on energy costs and improve indoor air quality.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/node\/42609\u0022\u003ERead more \u00bb\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"Lamarr.AI raised $1.1 million to bring its innovative building diagnostics technology to market."}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ELamarr.AI leverages AI and drones to autonomously diagnose building energy inefficiencies, reducing carbon emissions. The startup, a collaboration between Georgia Tech, MIT, and Syracuse University, raised $1.1 million in pre-seed funding. Their technology provides detailed diagnostics of building exteriors, helping owners save on energy costs and improve indoor air quality.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Lamarr.AI uses drones, AI, and thermal imaging to identify energy inefficiencies in buildings, offering a faster, safer, and more accurate solution."}],"uid":"27255","created_gmt":"2025-02-26 19:40:33","changed_gmt":"2026-01-01 18:12:39","author":"Josie Giles","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-02-26T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-02-26T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"676410":{"id":"676410","type":"image","title":"Tarek-Rakha-on-campus.jpeg","body":"\u003Cp\u003ETarek Rakha on the Georgia Tech campus holding a drone in his arms.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1740598935","gmt_created":"2025-02-26 19:42:15","changed":"1740598935","gmt_changed":"2025-02-26 19:42:15","alt":"Tarek Rakha on the Georgia Tech campus holding a drone in his arms.","file":{"fid":"260194","name":"Tarek-Rakha-on-campus.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/02\/26\/Tarek-Rakha-on-campus.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/02\/26\/Tarek-Rakha-on-campus.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":2501738,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/02\/26\/Tarek-Rakha-on-campus.jpeg?itok=1R3mtt_k"}}},"media_ids":["676410"],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"}],"keywords":[{"id":"192255","name":"go-commercializationnews"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"193658","name":"Commercialization"},{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"39491","name":"Renewable Bioproducts"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"680930":{"#nid":"680930","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Celebrating the Remarkable Career of Robert Butera","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECelebrating the Remarkable Career of Robert Butera\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cem\u003EBill Dracos Appointed Interim Chief Research Operations Officer as Rob Butera Announces His Retirement\u003C\/em\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt is with immense gratitude and admiration that we \u003Cstrong\u003Eannounce the retirement of Robert Butera\u003C\/strong\u003E, who has served Georgia Tech with the highest dedication and excellence. As the chief research operations officer (CROO), Butera has facilitated the Institute\u2019s research activities, overseeing research integrity assurance, research administration, research operations\/infrastructure, and research development. His leadership and vision have left an indelible mark on Georgia Tech\u0027s research enterprise.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EButera\u2019s journey at Georgia Tech began long before his role as CROO. He received his undergraduate degree in electrical engineering from Georgia Tech in 1991. He joined the Institute\u2019s faculty in 1999, after earning his Ph.D. from Rice University and spending several years as a postdoctoral researcher at the National Institutes of Health. Over the years, Butera has held numerous pivotal roles, including vice president for research development and operations, associate dean for research in the College of Engineering, and director of the Neural Engineering Center. Prior to joining Georgia Tech\u2019s research leadership, Butera directed the interdisciplinary bioengineering graduate program, then co-founded the Grand Challenges Living Learning Community.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs a professor, Butera graduated 15 Ph.D. students and mentored over 100 undergraduates, for which he received Georgia Tech\u2019s Senior Faculty Outstanding Undergraduate Research Mentor Award in 2016. He also mentored several postdocs and master\u2019s students.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EButera\u2019s accolades are numerous, including the prestigious Georgia Tech ANAK award and election as a Fellow to both the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the American Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering. He held significant leadership roles within the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. These honors reflect his impact on the field of biomedical engineering and his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeyond his professional achievements, Butera\u2019s personal passions have also enriched the larger Georgia Tech community. His love for whitewater kayaking, which he discovered through Outdoor Recreation Georgia Tech (ORGT), led to a decade of volunteering as an instructor and trip leader. This commitment to adventure and leadership development has inspired many students and colleagues alike.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022Rob\u0027s unwavering commitment to excellence and his visionary leadership have been instrumental in advancing Georgia Tech\u0027s research mission. His contributions have not only elevated our institution but have also profoundly impacted the broader scientific community. We are deeply grateful for his service and wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement,\u201d said Tim Lieuwen, executive vice president for Research.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAndr\u00e9s J. Garc\u00eda, executive director of the Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, shared these heartfelt words: \u0022Rob, the ultimate Yellow Jacket, has been a tireless champion to improve research, educational, and operational processes at Georgia Tech. He has had tremendous positive impact in Georgia Tech, the state, and the nation. We will miss his deep knowledge and expertise, exceptional problem solving, practical perspective, and genuine care for faculty, staff, and students, and we wish him continued success in his next chapter.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELena Ting, McCamish Foundation Distinguished Chair in Biomedical Engineering in the Walter H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, said, \u201cRob\u2019s heart\u0026nbsp;has a huge \u2018GT\u2019 stamped on it: He has always been engaged in all aspects of Georgia Tech life. I\u2019m always amazed to hear about his undergrad teaching and mentoring, kayaking with ORGT, and advising his fraternity. At the same time, he worked tirelessly to enhance interdisciplinary research and solve challenges affecting faculty research, all while conducting his own innovative research. Rob is a GT nexus, always in the know about what is going on around campus and \u2013 more importantly \u2013 how and why it got to be that way. He is a great friend and colleague who is always available for a beer, and I\u2019ll miss him dearly.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs we bid farewell to Rob, we also extend a warm welcome to \u003Cstrong\u003EBill Dracos, who will serve as the interim chief research operations officer, effective immediately.\u003C\/strong\u003E Bill brings a wealth of experience from his role as Deputy Chief Operating Officer at the Georgia Tech Research Institute and his previous leadership positions at George Mason University, Emory University, and PricewaterhouseCoopers. We are confident Bill will continue to build on Rob\u0027s legacy of excellence and innovation.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThank you, Rob, for your years of service, your unwavering commitment to Georgia Tech, and your inspiring leadership.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003EWe wish you all the best in your retirement and look forward to seeing the new adventures you will undoubtedly embark upon.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EGeorgia Tech is conducting a national search for the next Chief Research Operations Officer.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/career\/croo\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003ELearn more\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E about the open position.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"Bill Dracos Appointed Interim Chief Research Operations Officer as Rob Butera Announces His Retirement  "}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECelebrating the Remarkable Career of Robert Butera\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cem\u003EBill Dracos Appointed Interim Chief Research Operations Officer as Rob Butera Announces His Retirement\u003C\/em\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Celebrating the Remarkable Career of Robert Butera"}],"uid":"27561","created_gmt":"2025-03-05 16:13:18","changed_gmt":"2025-12-31 18:36:47","author":"Angela Ayers","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-03-05T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-03-05T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"676470":{"id":"676470","type":"image","title":"Rob Butera 2025","body":null,"created":"1741192845","gmt_created":"2025-03-05 16:40:45","changed":"1741193046","gmt_changed":"2025-03-05 16:44:06","alt":"Headshot of Rob Butera.","file":{"fid":"260266","name":"Butera.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/03\/05\/Butera.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/03\/05\/Butera.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":2794169,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/03\/05\/Butera.jpg?itok=L5by1dTE"}},"676469":{"id":"676469","type":"image","title":"Rob Butera Lab","body":null,"created":"1741192797","gmt_created":"2025-03-05 16:39:57","changed":"1741192831","gmt_changed":"2025-03-05 16:40:31","alt":"Rob Butera in the lab.","file":{"fid":"260265","name":"RobButeraLab.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/03\/05\/RobButeraLab.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/03\/05\/RobButeraLab.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":318423,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/03\/05\/RobButeraLab.jpg?itok=yY3lxOSp"}},"676468":{"id":"676468","type":"image","title":"Rob Butera ANAK award","body":null,"created":"1741192700","gmt_created":"2025-03-05 16:38:20","changed":"1741192774","gmt_changed":"2025-03-05 16:39:34","alt":"Robert Butera receives the Georgia Tech ANAK award in 2019.","file":{"fid":"260264","name":"Rob-Butera-ANAK-presentation_0.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/03\/05\/Rob-Butera-ANAK-presentation_0.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/03\/05\/Rob-Butera-ANAK-presentation_0.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":415794,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/03\/05\/Rob-Butera-ANAK-presentation_0.jpg?itok=wZ45hzhn"}},"676477":{"id":"676477","type":"image","title":"Butera White Water Rafting","body":null,"created":"1741212651","gmt_created":"2025-03-05 22:10:51","changed":"1741212712","gmt_changed":"2025-03-05 22:11:52","alt":"Rob Butera in a kayak white water rafting.","file":{"fid":"260273","name":"ButeraWhiteWaterRafting.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/03\/05\/ButeraWhiteWaterRafting.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/03\/05\/ButeraWhiteWaterRafting.png","mime":"image\/png","size":727696,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/03\/05\/ButeraWhiteWaterRafting.png?itok=a-vt3vna"}}},"media_ids":["676470","676469","676468","676477"],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"681273":{"#nid":"681273","#data":{"type":"news","title":"School Presents Research in Weather Prediction, Carbon Storage, Nuclear Fusion, and More at Computing Conference","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EMany communities rely on insights from computer-based models and simulations. This week, a nest of Georgia Tech experts are swarming an international conference to present their latest advancements in these tools, which offer solutions to pressing challenges in science and engineering.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStudents and faculty from the School of Computational Science and Engineering (CSE) are leading the Georgia Tech contingent at the SIAM Conference on Computational Science and Engineering (\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.siam.org\/conferences-events\/siam-conferences\/cse25\/\u0022\u003ECSE25\u003C\/a\u003E). The Society of Industrial and Applied Mathematics (\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.siam.org\/\u0022\u003ESIAM\u003C\/a\u003E) organizes CSE25, occurring March 3-7 in Fort Worth, Texas.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt CSE25, the School of CSE researchers are presenting papers that apply computing approaches to varying fields, including: \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EExperiment designs to accelerate the discovery of material properties\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EMachine learning approaches to model and predict weather forecasting and coastal flooding\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EVirtual models that replicate subsurface geological formations used to store captured carbon dioxide\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EOptimizing systems for imaging and optical chemistry\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EPlasma physics during nuclear fusion reactions\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003E[Related:\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/public.tableau.com\/app\/profile\/joshpreston\/viz\/SIAMCSE2025\/dash-long\u0022\u003EGT CSE at SIAM CSE25 Interactive Graphic\u003C\/a\u003E]\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIn CSE, researchers from different disciplines work together to develop new computational methods that we could not have developed alone,\u201d said School of CSE Professor\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cse.gatech.edu\/people\/edmond-chow\u0022\u003EEdmond Chow\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThese methods enable new science and engineering to be performed using computation.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECSE is a discipline dedicated to advancing computational techniques to study and analyze scientific and engineering systems. CSE complements theory and experimentation as modes of scientific discovery.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHeld every other year, CSE25 is the primary conference for the SIAM Activity Group on Computational Science and Engineering (\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.siam.org\/get-involved\/connect-with-a-community\/activity-groups\/computational-science-and-engineering\/\u0022\u003ESIAG CSE\u003C\/a\u003E). School of CSE faculty serve in key roles in leading the group and preparing for the conference.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn December, SIAG CSE members elected Chow to a two-year term as the group\u2019s vice chair. This election comes after Chow completed a term as the SIAG CSE program director.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESchool of CSE Associate Professor\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cse.gatech.edu\/people\/elizabeth-cherry\u0022\u003EElizabeth Cherry\u003C\/a\u003E has co-chaired the CSE25 organizing committee since the last conference in 2023. Later that year, SIAM members\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.siam.org\/publications\/siam-news\/articles\/siam-introduces-its-newly-elected-leadership\/\u0022\u003Ereelected Cherry to a second, three-year term as a council member at large\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt Georgia Tech, Chow serves as the associate chair of the School of CSE. Cherry, who recently became the\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.cc.gatech.edu\/news\/new-team-associate-deans-ready-advance-college-initiatives\u0022\u003E associate dean for graduate education of the College of Computing, continues as the director of CSE programs\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWith our strong emphasis on developing and applying computational tools and techniques to solve real-world problems, researchers in the School of CSE are well positioned to serve as leaders in computational science and engineering both within Georgia Tech and in the broader professional community,\u201d Cherry said.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s School of CSE was\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cse.gatech.edu\/founding-school\u0022\u003Efirst organized as a division in 2005\u003C\/a\u003E, becoming one of the world\u2019s first academic departments devoted to the discipline. The division reorganized as a school in 2010 after establishing the flagship CSE Ph.D. and M.S. programs, hiring nine faculty members, and attaining substantial research funding.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETen School of CSE faculty members are presenting research at CSE25, representing one-third of the School\u2019s faculty body. Of the 23 accepted papers written by Georgia Tech researchers, 15 originate from School of CSE authors.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe list of School of CSE researchers, paper titles, and abstracts includes:\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cem\u003EBayesian Optimal Design Accelerates Discovery of Material Properties from Bubble Dynamics\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EPostdoctoral Fellow\u003Cstrong\u003E Tianyi Chu\u003C\/strong\u003E, Joseph Beckett, Bachir Abeid, and Jonathan Estrada (University of Michigan), Assistant Professor \u003Cstrong\u003ESpencer Bryngelson\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E[\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/meetings.siam.org\/sess\/dsp_talk.cfm?p=143459\u0022\u003EAbstract\u003C\/a\u003E]\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ELatent-EnSF: A Latent Ensemble Score Filter for High-Dimensional Data Assimilation with Sparse Observation Data\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EPh.D. student\u003Cstrong\u003E Phillip Si\u003C\/strong\u003E, Assistant Professor \u003Cstrong\u003EPeng Chen\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E[\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/meetings.siam.org\/sess\/dsp_talk.cfm?p=141182\u0022\u003EAbstract\u003C\/a\u003E]\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EA Goal-Oriented Quadratic Latent Dynamic Network Surrogate Model for Parameterized Systems\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EYuhang Li, Stefan Henneking, Omar Ghattas (University of Texas at Austin), Assistant Professor \u003Cstrong\u003EPeng Chen\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E[\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/meetings.siam.org\/sess\/dsp_talk.cfm?p=149331\u0022\u003EAbstract\u003C\/a\u003E]\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EPosterior Covariance Structures in Gaussian Processes\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EYuanzhe Xi (Emory University), Difeng Cai (Southern Methodist University), Professor \u003Cstrong\u003EEdmond Chow\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E[\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/meetings.siam.org\/sess\/dsp_talk.cfm?p=142554\u0022\u003EAbstract\u003C\/a\u003E]\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ERobust Digital Twin for Geological Carbon Storage\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EProfessor\u003Cstrong\u003E Felix Herrmann\u003C\/strong\u003E, Ph.D. student \u003Cstrong\u003EAbhinav Gahlot\u003C\/strong\u003E, alumnus \u003Cstrong\u003ERafael Orozco\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E(Ph.D. CSE-CSE 2024), alumnus \u003Cstrong\u003EZiyi (Francis) Yin\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E(Ph.D. CSE-CSE 2024), and Ph.D. candidate \u003Cstrong\u003EGrant Bruer\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E[\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/meetings.siam.org\/sess\/dsp_talk.cfm?p=142843\u0022\u003EAbstract\u003C\/a\u003E]\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EIndustry-Scale Uncertainty-Aware Full Waveform Inference with Generative Models\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERafael Orozco\u003C\/strong\u003E, Ph.D. student \u003Cstrong\u003ETuna Erdinc\u003C\/strong\u003E, alumnus \u003Cstrong\u003EMathias Louboutin\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E(Ph.D. CS-CSE 2020), and Professor \u003Cstrong\u003EFelix Herrmann\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E[\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/meetings.siam.org\/sess\/dsp_talk.cfm?p=143101\u0022\u003EAbstract\u003C\/a\u003E]\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EOptimizing Coupled Systems: Insights from Co-Design Imaging and Optical Chemistry\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EAssistant Professor \u003Cstrong\u003ERapha\u00ebl Pestourie\u003C\/strong\u003E, Wenchao Ma and Steven Johnson (MIT), Lu Lu (Yale University), Zin Lin (Virginia Tech)\u003Cbr\u003E[\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/meetings.siam.org\/sess\/dsp_programsess.cfm?SESSIONCODE=82425\u0022\u003EAbstract\u003C\/a\u003E]\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EMultifidelity Linear Regression for Scientific Machine Learning from Scarce Data\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EAssistant Professor\u003Cstrong\u003E Elizabeth Qian\u003C\/strong\u003E, Ph.D. student \u003Cstrong\u003EDayoung Kang\u003C\/strong\u003E, Vignesh Sella, Anirban Chaudhuri and Anirban Chaudhuri (University of Texas at Austin)\u003Cbr\u003E[\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/meetings.siam.org\/sess\/dsp_talk.cfm?p=141115\u0022\u003EAbstract\u003C\/a\u003E]\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ELyapInf: Data-Driven Estimation of Stability Guarantees for Nonlinear Dynamical Systems\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EPh.D. candidate \u003Cstrong\u003ETomoki Koike\u003C\/strong\u003E and Assistant Professor \u003Cstrong\u003EElizabeth Qian\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E[\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/meetings.siam.org\/sess\/dsp_talk.cfm?p=142603\u0022\u003EAbstract\u003C\/a\u003E]\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThe Information Geometric Regularization of the Euler Equation\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EAlumnus \u003Cstrong\u003ERuijia Cao\u003C\/strong\u003E (B.S. CS 2024), Assistant Professor \u003Cstrong\u003EFlorian Sch\u00e4fer\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E[\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/meetings.siam.org\/sess\/dsp_programsess.cfm?SESSIONCODE=80995\u0022\u003EAbstract\u003C\/a\u003E]\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EMaximum Likelihood Discretization of the Transport Equation\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EPh.D. student \u003Cstrong\u003EBrook Eyob\u003C\/strong\u003E, Assistant Professor \u003Cstrong\u003EFlorian Sch\u00e4fer\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E[\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/meetings.siam.org\/sess\/dsp_talk.cfm?p=149340\u0022\u003EAbstract\u003C\/a\u003E]\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EIntelligent Attractors for Singularly Perturbed Dynamical Systems\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EDaniel A. Serino (Los Alamos National Laboratory), Allen Alvarez Loya (University of Colorado Boulder), Joshua W. Burby, Ioannis G. Kevrekidis (Johns Hopkins University), Assistant Professor \u003Cstrong\u003EQi Tang\u003C\/strong\u003E (Session Co-Organizer)\u003Cbr\u003E[\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/meetings.siam.org\/sess\/dsp_talk.cfm?p=140821\u0022\u003EAbstract\u003C\/a\u003E]\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EAccurate Discretizations and Efficient AMG Solvers for Extremely Anisotropic Diffusion Via Hyperbolic Operators\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EGolo Wimmer, Ben Southworth, Xianzhu Tang (LANL), Assistant Professor \u003Cstrong\u003EQi Tang\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003E[\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/meetings.siam.org\/sess\/dsp_talk.cfm?p=141012\u0022\u003EAbstract\u003C\/a\u003E]\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ERandomized Linear Algebra for Problems in Graph Analytics\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EProfessor \u003Cstrong\u003ERich Vuduc\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E[\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/meetings.siam.org\/sess\/dsp_talk.cfm?p=140989\u0022\u003EAbstract\u003C\/a\u003E]\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EImproving Spgemm Performance Through Reordering and Cluster-Wise Computation\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EAssistant Professor\u003Cstrong\u003E Helen Xu\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E[\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/meetings.siam.org\/sess\/dsp_talk.cfm?p=141133\u0022\u003EAbstract\u003C\/a\u003E]\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EMany communities rely on insights from computer-based models and simulations. This week, a nest of Georgia Tech experts are swarming an international conference to present their latest advancements in these tools, which offer solutions to pressing challenges in science and engineering.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStudents and faculty from the School of Computational Science and Engineering (CSE) are leading the Georgia Tech contingent at the SIAM Conference on Computational Science and Engineering (\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.siam.org\/conferences-events\/siam-conferences\/cse25\/\u0022\u003ECSE25\u003C\/a\u003E). The Society of Industrial and Applied Mathematics (\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.siam.org\/\u0022\u003ESIAM\u003C\/a\u003E) organizes CSE25, occurring March 3-7 in Fort Worth, Texas.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Students and faculty from the School of Computational Science and Engineering (CSE) are leading the Georgia Tech contingent at the SIAM Conference on Computational Science and Engineering (CSE25). The Society of Industrial and Applied Mathematics (SIAM) o"}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2025-03-21 12:53:27","changed_gmt":"2025-12-31 18:03:29","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-03-06T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-03-06T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"676493":{"id":"676493","type":"image","title":"CSE25-Head-Image-v3.1.jpg","body":null,"created":"1741290615","gmt_created":"2025-03-06 19:50:15","changed":"1741290615","gmt_changed":"2025-03-06 19:50:15","alt":"GT CSE at SIAM CSE25","file":{"fid":"260290","name":"CSE25-Head-Image-v3.1.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/03\/06\/CSE25-Head-Image-v3.1.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/03\/06\/CSE25-Head-Image-v3.1.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":159289,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/03\/06\/CSE25-Head-Image-v3.1.jpg?itok=Mr30PYKB"}},"676494":{"id":"676494","type":"image","title":"CSE25-Tableau.png","body":null,"created":"1741290772","gmt_created":"2025-03-06 19:52:52","changed":"1741290772","gmt_changed":"2025-03-06 19:52:52","alt":"SIAM CSE25 Tableau","file":{"fid":"260291","name":"CSE25-Tableau.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/03\/06\/CSE25-Tableau.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/03\/06\/CSE25-Tableau.png","mime":"image\/png","size":539581,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/03\/06\/CSE25-Tableau.png?itok=lRlCOcEm"}}},"media_ids":["676493","676494"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.cc.gatech.edu\/news\/school-present-research-weather-prediction-carbon-storage-nuclear-fusion-and-more-computing","title":"School to Present Research in Weather Prediction, Carbon Storage, Nuclear Fusion, and More at Computing Conference"}],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"141","name":"Chemistry and Chemical Engineering"},{"id":"153","name":"Computer Science\/Information Technology and Security"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"145","name":"Engineering"},{"id":"150","name":"Physics and Physical Sciences"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"8862","name":"Student Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"654","name":"College of Computing"},{"id":"166983","name":"School of Computational Science and Engineering"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"10199","name":"Daily Digest"},{"id":"9153","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"193655","name":"Artificial Intelligence at Georgia Tech"},{"id":"39431","name":"Data Engineering and Science"},{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"39471","name":"Materials"},{"id":"193652","name":"Matter and Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EBryant Wine, Communications Officer\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:bryant.wine@cc.gatech.edu\u0022\u003Ebryant.wine@cc.gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"681761":{"#nid":"681761","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Researchers Pioneer Eco-Friendly Building Materials for Earth and Mars","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EFor centuries, innovations in structural materials have prioritized strength and durability \u2014 often at a steep environmental price. Today, the construction industry accounts for approximately 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with cement, steel, and concrete responsible for more than two-thirds of that total. As the world presses for a sustainable future, scientists are racing to reinvent the very foundations of our built environment.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EParadigm Shift in Construction\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow, researchers at Georgia Tech have developed a novel class of modular, reconfigurable, and sustainable building blocks \u2014 a new construction paradigm as well-suited for terrestrial homes as it is for extraterrestrial habitats. Their \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/pii\/S2590238525001493?dgcid=author\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Estudy\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, published in \u003Cem\u003EMatter\u003C\/em\u003E, demonstrates that these innovative units, dubbed eco-voxels, can reduce carbon footprints by up to 40% compared to traditional construction materials. These units also maintain the structural performance needed for applications ranging from load-bearing walls to aircraft wings.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe created sustainable structures using these eco-friendly building blocks, combining our knowledge of structural mechanics and mechanical design with industry-relevant manufacturing practices and environmental assessments,\u201d said \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/christos-e-athanasiou\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EChristos Athanasiou\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, assistant professor at the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ae.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDaniel Guggenheim School of Aerospace Engineering\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHousing Affordability Solutions\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETheir work offers a potential solution to the growing housing affordability crisis. As climate-driven disasters such as hurricanes, wildfires, and floods increase, homes are damaged at higher rates, and insurance costs are skyrocketing. This crisis is fueled by rising land prices and restrictive development regulations. Meanwhile, the growing demand for housing places an increasing strain on global resources and the environment. The modularity and circularity of the developed approach can effectively address these issues.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe New Building Blocks\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEco-voxels \u2014 short for eco-friendly voxels, the 3D equivalent of pixels \u2014 are made from polytrimethylene terephthalate (PTT). PTT is a partially bio-based polymer derived from corn sugar and reinforced with recycled carbon fibers from aerospace waste (scrap material lost during the manufacturing of aerospace components). Eco-voxels can be easily assembled into large, load-bearing structures and then disassembled and reconfigured, all without generating waste. Consequently, they offer a highly adaptable, sustainable approach to construction.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe team tested eco-voxels and found they can handle the pressure that buildings usually face. They also used computer simulations to show that changing the shape of eco-voxels makes them suitable for many different building needs.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe researchers compared the eco-voxel approach to other emerging construction methods like 3D-printed concrete and cross-laminated timber (CLT), finding that eco-voxels offer significant environmental advantages. While traditional and alternative materials are often heavy and carbon-intensive, the eco-voxel wall had the lowest carbon footprint: 30% lower than concrete and 20% lower than CLT.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese results highlight eco-voxels as a promising low-carbon, high-performance solution for sustainable and affordable construction, opening new possibilities for faster, more sustainable building solutions. In addition to residential uses, emergency shelters built with eco-voxels could be used for disaster-relief scenarios, where quick assembly, modularity, and minimal environmental impact are crucial.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u201c\u003C\/em\u003EThis study exemplifies how advances in structural mechanics, sustainable composite development, and sustainability analysis can yield transformative solutions when coupled. Eco-voxels\u0026nbsp; \u2014\u0026nbsp; our modular, reconfigurable building blocks \u2014 provide a scalable, low-carbon alternative that redefines our approach to building in both terrestrial and extraterrestrial environments,\u0022 said Athanasiou.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBuilding in Space\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeyond their terrestrial potential, eco-voxels can also offer a promising solution for off-world construction where traditional building methods are unfeasible. Their lightweight, rapid assembly \u2014 structures can be erected in less than an hour \u2014 and reliance on sustainable or locally sourced materials make them ideal candidates for future Martian or lunar shelters.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe ability to build these structures quickly is a significant advantage for space construction,\u201d said Athanasiou. \u201cIn space, we need lightweight units made from locally sourced materials.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPerhaps most importantly, the researchers envision a future where the built environment not only minimizes harm but actively contributes to the preservation of planetary health.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis research was led by Georgia Tech, in collaboration with teams from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada, and the National University of Singapore.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"A new study explores reconfigurable, sustainable construction materials that could transform how we build on this planet \u2014  and beyond."}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EResearchers at Georgia Tech have developed a novel class of modular, reconfigurable, and sustainable building blocks \u2014 a new construction paradigm as well-suited for terrestrial homes as it is for extraterrestrial habitats. Their \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/pii\/S2590238525001493?dgcid=author\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Estudy\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, published in \u003Cem\u003EMatter\u003C\/em\u003E, demonstrates that these innovative units, dubbed eco-voxels, can reduce carbon footprints by up to 40% compared to traditional construction materials. These units also maintain the structural performance needed for applications ranging from load-bearing walls to aircraft wings.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"A new study explores reconfigurable, sustainable construction materials that could transform how we build on this planet \u2014  and beyond."}],"uid":"36345","created_gmt":"2025-04-11 22:25:47","changed_gmt":"2025-12-31 18:00:50","author":"gwaddell3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-04-11T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-04-11T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677358":{"id":"677358","type":"video","title":"Eco-Voxels Build Tech Tower","body":null,"created":"1752062867","gmt_created":"2025-07-09 12:07:47","changed":"1752062867","gmt_changed":"2025-07-09 12:07:47","video":{"youtube_id":"E-QaIMFTLvc","video_url":"https:\/\/youtu.be\/E-QaIMFTLvc?feature=shared"}}},"media_ids":["677358"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/ae.gatech.edu\/news\/2024\/08\/christos-athanasiou-works-reuse-materials-our-planet-and-beyond","title":"Christos Athanasiou Works to Reuse Materials on Our Planet \u2014 and Beyond"}],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"1325","name":"aerospace"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"193657","name":"Space Research Initiative"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EMonique Waddell\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["monique.waddell@gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"682699":{"#nid":"682699","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Army Awards Tech-Led Project $20M to Develop Aluminum Manufacturing for Hydrogen Energy Production","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAluminum scrap is one of the most common materials found on military bases and aircraft carriers worldwide. Now, the U.S. Army has tapped Georgia Tech to help turn that waste into power that can be generated off the grid and on demand.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Army Research Office awarded Georgia Tech and its partners $20 million to develop scalable, efficient methods for transforming aluminum into hydrogen energy. The project could lead to a new, low-cost, clean, and efficient energy source powered by discarded materials.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/faculty\/stebner\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAaron Stebner\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, professor and Eugene C. Gwaltney Jr. Chair in Manufacturing in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGeorge W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E and professor in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.mse.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESchool of Materials Science and Engineering\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, will oversee the multi-year effort at Georgia Tech together with \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/scott-mcwhorter\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EScott McWhorter\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, lead for Federal Initiatives at the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/energy\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStrategic Energy Institute\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition to several team members from Georgia Tech and the Georgia Tech Research Institute, the project includes researchers from Fort Valley State University, the 21st Century Partnership, MatSys, and Drexel University.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cAluminum already reacts with water \u2014 even wastewater and floodwater \u2014 to create hydrogen gas, power, and thermal energy,\u201d McWhorter said. \u201cIf aluminum can be efficiently upcycled into stored energy, it could be a game-changer.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe team\u2019s goal is to experiment with aluminum\u2019s material properties so it can be inexpensively manufactured to create a highly effective reaction that produces low-cost, clean hydrogen.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cHaving this ability would allow military bases to be less dependent on the use of a foreign country\u2019s electrical grids,\u201d said Stebner, who is also co-director of \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/georgiaaim.org\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGeorgia Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E and faculty at the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/manufacturing\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGeorgia Tech Manufacturing Institute\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EManufacturing Aluminum\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESeveral years ago, the Army Research Lab discovered and patented the basic technology for recycling aluminum to produce hydrogen gas. However, current manufacturing methods require too much energy for the amount of hydrogen energy produced. \u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo make the technology viable and effective, Stebner and his colleagues will research alternate manufacturing processes and then develop automated methods for safely producing and storing stable aluminum. They also plan to optimize these processes using digital twin technologies.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECurrently, manufacturers use large machines to grind up and tumble the aluminum in very controlled environments, because stray aluminum powder can be explosive. These methods are very costly.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStebner and the team are looking into small, modular technologies that could allow for convenient, onsite energy generation. According to Stebner, they are interested in determining how these smaller machines could be so efficient that they could be powered using solar panels.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStebner envisions that a field of solar panels could power the aluminum-processing modules \u2014 the aluminum recycling could be done while the sun shines and produce power 24\/7.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESustainable Impact\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOnce they have developed the manufacturing techniques and processes, the team plans to test their efficacy by generating power for rural Georgia communities. Success here would prove the technology could be viable for military deployments and other off-grid scenarios.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe Deep South \u2014 especially middle and southern Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana \u2014 often has enormous energy disruptions during hurricanes or power outages due to flooding and severe rains,\u201d Stebner said. \u201cManufacturers can be hesitant to build big plants there, because the grids aren\u2019t as stable. This same technology that the Army plans to use for remote military bases could be a game-changer in rural Georgia.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf power is unexpectedly cut in those areas, floodwater could then be used to make hydrogen gas. While hydrogen has not yet had its day in the sun, it has great potential as an alternative to fossil fuels, Stebner says.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cFrom a sustainability perspective, any time you can take something that\u2019s already waste \u2014 like scrap aluminum and wastewater \u2014 and turn it into a high-value product that can be used to power communities, that is a huge win.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFunding\u003C\/strong\u003E: Army Research Office\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Army Research Office awarded Georgia Tech and its partners $20 million to develop scalable, efficient methods for transforming aluminum into hydrogen energy. The project could lead to a new, low-cost, clean, and efficient energy source powered by discarded materials.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The multi-year research project could make scalable off-grid power sources a reality for rural communities and the military."}],"uid":"36123","created_gmt":"2025-06-05 16:10:27","changed_gmt":"2025-12-31 17:42:15","author":"Catherine Barzler","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-06-05T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-06-05T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677196":{"id":"677196","type":"image","title":"aluminum powder.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EScientists at the Army Research Laboratory found that an aluminum-based powder prompts hydrogen to split from water. Now, a Georgia Tech-led partnership will carry that research forward. Credit: US Army\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1749139837","gmt_created":"2025-06-05 16:10:37","changed":"1749139837","gmt_changed":"2025-06-05 16:10:37","alt":"a small vial of white powder","file":{"fid":"261070","name":"1-armyplanstol--1-.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/06\/05\/1-armyplanstol--1-.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/06\/05\/1-armyplanstol--1-.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":608105,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/06\/05\/1-armyplanstol--1-.jpg?itok=nhqnY83a"}},"677194":{"id":"677194","type":"image","title":"Aaron Stebner.jpeg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAaron Stebner\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1749139837","gmt_created":"2025-06-05 16:10:37","changed":"1749139837","gmt_changed":"2025-06-05 16:10:37","alt":"A man with glasses and a beard in a dark vest and dress shirt","file":{"fid":"261068","name":"Media-e1740408363490.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/06\/05\/Media-e1740408363490.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/06\/05\/Media-e1740408363490.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":169800,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/06\/05\/Media-e1740408363490.jpeg?itok=UOfQe7cb"}},"677195":{"id":"677195","type":"image","title":"Photo-McWhorter-Christopher.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EScott McWhorter\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1749139837","gmt_created":"2025-06-05 16:10:37","changed":"1749139837","gmt_changed":"2025-06-05 16:10:37","alt":"A headshot of a man in a blue shirt and dark blazer","file":{"fid":"261069","name":"Photo-McWhorter-Christopher.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/06\/05\/Photo-McWhorter-Christopher.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/06\/05\/Photo-McWhorter-Christopher.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":40865,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/06\/05\/Photo-McWhorter-Christopher.jpg?itok=RTFiwlqs"}}},"media_ids":["677196","677194","677195"],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"186857","name":"go-gtmi"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"39461","name":"Manufacturing, Trade, and Logistics"},{"id":"193652","name":"Matter and Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71881","name":"Science and Technology"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ECatherine Barzler, Senior Research Writer\/Editor\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:catherine.barzler@gatech.edu\u0022\u003Ecatherine.barzler@gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["catherine.barzler@gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"682801":{"#nid":"682801","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Alumni Develop Device to Understand Moon\u2019s Water Content","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWhen NASA\u2019s PRIME-1 Mission \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/news\/athena-moon-lander-tips-over-intuitive-machines-mission\/\u0022\u003Elanded\u003C\/a\u003E on the moon in March, an Intuitive Machine\u2019s lander named Athena ended up on its side. The faulty landing meant the instruments couldn\u2019t drill into the moon to measure water and other resources, as intended. But the mission wasn\u2019t a total loss: PRIME-1\u2019s The Regolith Ice Drill for Exploring New Terrain (TRIDENT) and Mass Spectrometer Observing Lunar Operations (MSOLO)\u0026nbsp;could still operate and gather some data. The mission, led by Georgia Tech alumni who collaborated with Georgia Tech faculty, is already pivotal to future NASA missions.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/mission\/polar-resources-ice-mining-experiment-1-prime-1\/\u0022\u003EPRIME-1\u003C\/a\u003E, or Polar Resources Ice Mining Experiment-1, is a combination tool of two instruments: TRIDENT and MSOLO. PRIME-1\u2019s objective is to help scientists determine resources available on the moon, with the eventual goal of sending humans to live there. TRIDENT is a space-rated drill designed and built by Honeybee Robotics that can extract lunar soil up to 3 feet deep. MSOLO is a mass spectrometer that can analyze TRIDENT\u2019s soil samples for water and other critical volatiles. Together, this data can show how viable living on and mining from the moon could be.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETwo Georgia Tech alumna, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/technology.nasa.gov\/blog-MEET-THE-INVENTOR-Jackie-Quinn\u0022\u003EJackie Williams Quinn\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/science.nasa.gov\/people\/janine-captain\/\u0022\u003EJanine E. \u0026nbsp;Captain\u003C\/a\u003E, led the PRIME-1 team for NASA. They had help with computer modeling of PRIME-1\u2019s mass spectrometer data from Georgia Tech\u2019s Regents\u2019 Professor \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/chemistry.gatech.edu\/people\/thomas-orlando\u0022\u003EThom Orlando\u003C\/a\u003E and Senior Research Scientist Brant Jones in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/chemistry.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Chemistry and Biochemistry\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGeorgia Tech to the Moon\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s expertise influenced all areas of developing PRIME-1, but perhaps their biggest contribution was the collaboration across disciplines.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EQuinn, a civil engineering graduate, wrote the initial proposal. She also managed TRIDENT\u2019s development, through a contract with Honeybee Robotics, ensuring it was also built to operate in the harsh lunar environment (a process known as ruggedizing). The team worked with Honeybee\u2019s Jameil Bailey, fellow Tech alumnus.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECaptain, the MSOLO principal investigator and chemistry Ph.D. graduate, never planned to work at NASA. But her advisor, Orlando, got her interested.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWhat drew me to NASA\u2019s In-Situ Resource Utilization team is that I could apply the instrumentation techniques that I learned in my Ph.D. \u0026nbsp;to measuring vital things like oxygen on the moon,\u201d Captain said.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERuggedization Redux\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen it was confirmed in 2008 the moon had water, NASA wondered if humans could one day live there. Having a functional mass spectrometer on the moon was paramount to determining where the water was and how much of it existed. Captain\u2019s team modified a commercial mass spectrometer and tested it in a harsh environment comparable to the moon: Hawaii\u2019s dormant shield volcano, Mauna Kea. Once they demonstrated the mission operation in this environment, they worked to ruggedize an existing one manufactured by instrumentation company INFICON. The team worked with INFICON and through lab tests, they showed that all components of the mass spectrometer functioned in a lunar vacuum environment. \u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn Orlando\u2019s lab, his team experimented with lunar material to determine how water interacts with lunar soil. From there, they created a theoretical model that simulated how much water they might find from what PRIME-1 sampled. \u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cTo create the model, we used the data of how water sticks to the lunar surface \u2014 from controlled experiments carried out in our ultra-high vacuum chambers at Georgia Tech,\u201d Orlando said. \u201cWe approached the problem from a surface physics point of view in these lab experiments, but then in our model, we were able to connect to the actual mission activity.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOnce PRIME-1 hardware validation testing was finished, NASA was ready to launch. \u0026nbsp;That\u2019s when things got hairy.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe don\u0027t fully understand everything that happened during the landing, but the fact that PRIME-1 was fully functional is pretty amazing,\u201d Captain said. \u201cWe got the data. It was so cool to know that all this work we did was worth it.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMoon Milestones\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlthough they didn\u2019t get the chance to drill into the moon as planned, they can still analyze the data PRIME-1 pulled from the lunar atmosphere. This data includes how the spacecraft may have contaminated the local atmosphere.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cPRIME-1 was the only instrument that got to fully run and check out everything because when the lander fell over, the instrument was on top,\u201d Quinn noted. \u201cThey were able to extend the drill all the way out a meter. It was drilling into empty space, but we were able to show that the drill got the signal from Earth, fully extended, and was able to auger and percuss. We were also able to fully operate MSOLO and gather data on gases coming off the lander in its final resting orientation.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe mass spectrometer and ice drill will be crucial to future NASA missions.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The mass spectrometer and ice drill will be crucial to future NASA missions. "}],"uid":"34541","created_gmt":"2025-06-16 20:37:19","changed_gmt":"2025-12-31 17:36:23","author":"Tess Malone","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-06-16T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-06-16T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677238":{"id":"677238","type":"image","title":"54370792577_4e391512ec_k.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAthena landed on its side with MSOLO glowing. \u0026nbsp;[Image courtesy of Intuitive Machines]\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1750106384","gmt_created":"2025-06-16 20:39:44","changed":"1750106384","gmt_changed":"2025-06-16 20:39:44","alt":"Athena landed on its side with MSOLO glowing. ","file":{"fid":"261119","name":"54370792577_4e391512ec_k.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/06\/16\/54370792577_4e391512ec_k.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/06\/16\/54370792577_4e391512ec_k.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":135656,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/06\/16\/54370792577_4e391512ec_k.jpg?itok=TMW2a0Go"}}},"media_ids":["677238"],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"},{"id":"187582","name":"go-ibb"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ETess Malone, Senior Research Writer\/Editor\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003Etess.malone@gatech.edu\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"682913":{"#nid":"682913","#data":{"type":"news","title":"The Slow and the Furious: The Researcher Driven to Curb Atlanta\u2019s Soul-Crushing Commute","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWith so many paths to research careers at Georgia Tech, finding the right one can be daunting. In an ongoing feature series, Unexpected Paths, we explore the journeys of 12 research faculty members from across the Institute and learn about their unique paths to research. In this feature, follow Angshuman Guin as he discusses his research into traffic patterns and how faculty serve as the connective tissue of the Institute.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/node\/43438\u0022\u003ERead more \u00bb\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EIn this feature, follow Angshuman Guin as he discusses his research into traffic patterns and how faculty serve as the connective tissue of the Institute.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"An engineer\u2019s unexpected path to Georgia Tech is paved with detours, data, and a dose of humor."}],"uid":"27255","created_gmt":"2025-06-26 21:32:21","changed_gmt":"2025-12-31 17:31:26","author":"Josie Giles","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-06-26T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-06-26T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677295":{"id":"677295","type":"image","title":"Unexpected-Paths_June-Issue_Angshuman-Guin-5.jpg","body":null,"created":"1750973577","gmt_created":"2025-06-26 21:32:57","changed":"1750973577","gmt_changed":"2025-06-26 21:32:57","alt":"Angshuman Guin (a male professor wearing a black suit) sits at a desk in front of two monitors displaying data","file":{"fid":"261179","name":"Unexpected-Paths_June-Issue_Angshuman-Guin-5.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/06\/26\/Unexpected-Paths_June-Issue_Angshuman-Guin-5.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/06\/26\/Unexpected-Paths_June-Issue_Angshuman-Guin-5.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1180614,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/06\/26\/Unexpected-Paths_June-Issue_Angshuman-Guin-5.jpg?itok=yUPveq4Y"}}},"media_ids":["677295"],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"39491","name":"Renewable Bioproducts"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"682938":{"#nid":"682938","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Ready Named Inaugural Executive Director of the Georgia Tech Space Research Institute","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EEffective July 1,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/2885\u0022\u003EW. Jud Ready\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003Ewill serve as the inaugural executive director of Georgia Tech\u2019s\u0026nbsp;new\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/space.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESpace Research Institute\u003C\/a\u003E (SRI), which will officially launch on the same date.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe SRI builds upon Georgia Tech\u2019s long and distinguished history in space research and exploration. By uniting experts across disciplines \u2014 from aerospace engineering to planetary science, astrophysics, robotics, policy, the arts, and origin of life explorations \u2014 the SRI aims to create a resilient ecosystem for space research that can adapt and thrive, even in an era of fiscal uncertainty. It is composed of faculty, staff, and students whose collaborative research spans a broad spectrum of space-related topics, all deeply connected to advancing our understanding of space and its impact on the human experience.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe launch of the SRI comes at a pivotal moment for the scientific community,\u201d said Vice President of Interdisciplinary Research Julia Kubanek. \u201cAs the federal government proposes major cuts to funding agencies, our interdisciplinary research institutes are striving to support faculty and make them more competitive across disciplinary boundaries. This institute will publicly showcase impactful research led by Georgia Tech faculty, attract new collaborators, and pursue alternative funding strategies via philanthropic and industry partners.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Space Research Institute will consist of an interdisciplinary community of faculty across Georgia Tech\u2019s schools, colleges, and the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI).\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIt is an honor to be appointed executive director of the Space Research Institute,\u201d said Ready. \u201cMy plan is to provide internal and external space researchers with access to Georgia Tech\u2019s world class facilities and turbocharge the space activities already underway. We\u2019re committed to empowering our existing community while forging new partnerships that will expand our reach and impact across the global space ecosystem.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReady, a\u0026nbsp;principal research engineer in GTRI\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gtri.gatech.edu\/laboratories\/electro-optical-systems-laboratory\u0022\u003EElectro-Optical Systems Laboratory\u003C\/a\u003E,\u0026nbsp;is the\u0026nbsp;first GTRI faculty member to serve in a long-term capacity as an IRI executive director. Prior to his appointment, he served as\u0026nbsp;associate\u0026nbsp;director of external engagement\u0026nbsp;for the Georgia Tech \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/matter-systems.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EInstitute for Matter and Systems\u003C\/a\u003E and director of the Georgia Tech Center for Space Technology and Research (CSTAR).\u0026nbsp;He is also an adjunct professor in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/mse.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Materials Science and Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E at Georgia Tech.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBefore joining the Georgia Tech faculty, Ready worked for General Dynamics and MicroCoating\u0026nbsp;Technologies. Throughout his career,\u0026nbsp;he has served as PI or co-PI for grants totaling more than $25M awarded by the Army, Navy, Air Force, DARPA, NASA, NSF, NIST,\u0026nbsp;DOE, other federal sponsors,\u0026nbsp;industry, charitable foundations, private citizens, and\u0026nbsp;the States of Georgia and Florida.\u0026nbsp;His current research focuses primarily on energy capture, storage, and delivery enabled by nanomaterial design. His research has been included on three missions to the International Space Station, two others to low earth orbit, and one perpetually in heliocentric orbit (Lunar Flashlight). His future space missions include MISSE-21 to the International Space Station and SSTEF-1 to the Lunar surface. A half dozen solar cells from his past missions to the International Space Station will be included in the permanent At Home in Space exhibit opening on the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum\u0027s 50th Anniversary.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReady has received numerous awards and honors for his work. His most recent awards include the Class of 1934 Outstanding Innovative Use of Education Technology award in 2025 and the Outstanding Achievement in Research Program Development award in 2023, both from Georgia Tech. He also received the One GTRI Collaboration Award in 2022, which he was awarded during GTRI\u2019s annual Distinguished Performance Awards celebration.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdditional articles of interest:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/coe.gatech.edu\/magazine\/2025\/spring\/10-questions-jud-ready\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E10 Questions with Jud Ready\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gtri.gatech.edu\/newsroom\/space-station-testing-will-evaluate-photovoltaic-materials\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESpace Station Testing Will Evaluate Photovoltaic Materials\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"Effective July 1, Ready will serve as the inaugural executive director of Georgia Tech\u2019s new Space Research Institute, which will officially launch on the same date."}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EEffective July 1, Ready will serve as the inaugural executive director of Georgia Tech\u2019s new Space Research Institute, which will officially launch on the same date.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Effective July 1, Ready will serve as the inaugural executive director of Georgia Tech\u2019s new Space Research Institute, which will officially launch on the same date."}],"uid":"34760","created_gmt":"2025-06-30 14:27:59","changed_gmt":"2025-12-31 17:22:59","author":"Laurie Haigh","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-06-30T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-06-30T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677316":{"id":"677316","type":"image","title":"Jud Ready","body":null,"created":"1751374763","gmt_created":"2025-07-01 12:59:23","changed":"1751374791","gmt_changed":"2025-07-01 12:59:51","alt":"Jud Ready","file":{"fid":"261202","name":"Ready-recropped.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/01\/Ready-recropped.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/01\/Ready-recropped.png","mime":"image\/png","size":498883,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/07\/01\/Ready-recropped.png?itok=Gk_6TGDx"}}},"media_ids":["677316"],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"136","name":"Aerospace"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"193657","name":"Space Research Initiative"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71871","name":"Campus and Community"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto: laurie.haigh@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003ELaurie Haigh\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EResearch Communications\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"682962":{"#nid":"682962","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Launches Two New Interdisciplinary Research Institutes","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech has launched two new Interdisciplinary Research Institutes (IRIs): The Institute for Neuroscience, Neurotechnology, and Society (INNS) and the Space Research Institute (SRI).\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe new institutes focus on expanding breakthroughs in neuroscience and space, two areas where research and federal funding are anticipated to remain strong. Both fields are poised to influence research in everything from healthcare and ethics to exploration and innovation. This expansion of Georgia Tech\u2019s research enterprise represents the Institute\u2019s commitment to research that will shape the future.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cAt Georgia Tech, innovation flourishes where disciplines converge. With the launch of the Space Research Institute and the Institute for Neuroscience, Neurotechnology, and Society, we\u2019re uniting experts across fields to take on some of humanity\u2019s most profound questions. Even as we are tightening our belts in anticipation of potential federal R\u0026amp;D budget actions, we also are investing in areas where non-federal funding sources will grow and where big impacts are possible,\u201d said Executive Vice President for Research Tim Lieuwen. \u0022These institutes are about advancing knowledge \u2014 and using it to improve lives, inspire future generations, and help shape a better future for us all.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBoth INNS and SRI grew out of faculty-led initiatives shaped by a strategic planning process and campus-wide collaboration. Their evolution into formal institutes underscores the strength and momentum of Georgia Tech\u2019s interdisciplinary research enterprise.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s 11 IRIs support collaboration between researchers and students across the Institute\u2019s seven colleges, the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI), national laboratories, and corporate entities to tackle critical topics of strategic significance for the Institute as well as for local, state, national, and international communities.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022IRIs bring together Georgia Tech researchers making them more competitive and successful in solving research challenges, especially across disciplinary boundaries,\u201d said Julia Kubanek, vice president of interdisciplinary research. \u201cWe\u0027re making these new investments in neuro- and space-related fields to publicly showcase impactful discoveries and developments led by Georgia Tech faculty, attract new partners and collaborators, and pursue alternative funding strategies at a time of federal funding uncertainty.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe Space Research Institute\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/space.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESpace Research Institute\u003C\/a\u003E will connect faculty, students, and staff who share a passion for space exploration and discovery. They will investigate a wide variety of space-related topics, exploring how space influences and intersects with the human experience. The SRI fosters a collaborative community including scientific, engineering, cultural, and commercial research that pursues broadly integrated, innovative projects.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESRI is the hub for all things space-related at Georgia Tech. It connects the Institute\u2019s schools, colleges, research institutes, and labs to lead conversations about space in the state of Georgia and the world. Working in partnership with academics, business partners, philanthropists, students, and governments, Georgia Tech is committed to staying at the forefront of space-related innovation.\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe SRI will build upon the collaborative work of the Space Research Initiative, the first step in formalizing Georgia Tech\u2019s broad interdisciplinary space research community. The Initiative brought together researchers from across campus and was guided by input from Georgia Tech stakeholders and external partners. It was led by an executive committee including\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/4313\u0022\u003EGlenn Lightsey\u003C\/a\u003E, John W. Young Chair Professor in the Daniel Guggenheim School of Aerospace Engineering;\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/21316\u0022\u003EMariel Borowitz\u003C\/a\u003E, associate professor in the Sam Nunn School of International Affairs; and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/2804\u0022\u003EJennifer Glass\u003C\/a\u003E, associate professor in the School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences. Beginning July 1, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/s1.space.research.gatech.edu\/w-jud-ready\u0022\u003EW. Jud Ready\u003C\/a\u003E, a principal research engineer in GTRI\u2019s Electro-Optical Systems Laboratory, will serve as the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/ready-named-inaugural-executive-director-georgia-tech-space-research-institute\u0022\u003Einaugural executive director of the Space Research Institute\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo receive the latest updates on space research and innovation at Georgia Tech,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/app.e2ma.net\/app2\/audience\/signup\/2015041\/1983075\/\u0022\u003Ejoin the SRI mailing list\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe Institute for Neuroscience, Neurotechnology, and Society\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/neuro.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EInstitute for Neuroscience, Neurotechnology, and Society\u003C\/a\u003E (INNS) is dedicated to advancing neuroscience and neurotechnology to improve society through discovery, innovation, and engagement. INNS brings together researchers from neuroscience, engineering, computing, ethics, public policy, and the humanities to explore the brain and nervous system while addressing the societal and ethical dimensions of neuro-related research.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EINNS builds on a foundation established over a decade ago, which first led to the GT-Neuro Initiative and later evolved into the Neuro Next Initiative. Over the past two years, this effort has culminated in the development of a comprehensive plan for an IRI, guided by an executive committee composed of faculty and staff from across Georgia Tech. The committee included \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/3736\u0022\u003ESimon Sponberg,\u003C\/a\u003E Dunn Family Associate Professor in the School of Physics and the School of Biological Sciences; \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/3728\u0022\u003EChristopher Rozell,\u003C\/a\u003E Julian T. Hightower Chaired Professor in the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering; \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/11576\u0022\u003EJennifer Singh\u003C\/a\u003E, associate professor in the School of History and Sociology; and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ece.gatech.edu\/directory\/sarah-peterson\u0022\u003ESarah Peterson\u003C\/a\u003E, Neuro Next Initiative program manager. Their leadership shaped the vision for a research community both scientifically ambitious and socially responsive.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EINNS will serve as a dynamic hub for interdisciplinary collaboration across the full spectrum of brain-related research \u2014 from biological foundations to behavior and cognition, and from fundamental research to medical innovations that advance human flourishing. Research areas will encompass the foundations of human intelligence and movement, bio-inspired design and neurotechnology development, and the ethical dimensions of a neuro-connected future.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy integrating technical innovation with human-centered inquiry, INNS is committed to ensuring that advances in neuroscience and neurotechnology are developed and applied ethically and responsibly. Through fostering innovation, cultivating interdisciplinary expertise, and engaging with the public, the institute seeks to shape a future where advancements in neuroscience and neurotechnology serve the greater good. INNS also aims to deepen Georgia Tech\u2019s collaborations with clinical, academic, and industry partners, creating new pathways for translational research and real-world impact.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAn internal search for INNS\u2019s inaugural executive director is in the final stages, with an announcement expected soon.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/eepurl.com\/iX8jss\u0022\u003EJoin our mailing list\u003C\/a\u003E to receive the latest updates on everything neuro at Georgia Tech.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EBy uniting experts across disciplines, Georgia Tech is positioning itself at the forefront of neuroscience and space research.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"By uniting experts across disciplines, Georgia Tech is positioning itself at the forefront of neuroscience and space research."}],"uid":"34760","created_gmt":"2025-07-01 11:53:04","changed_gmt":"2025-12-31 16:58:27","author":"Laurie Haigh","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-07-01T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-07-01T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677315":{"id":"677315","type":"image","title":"Tech Tower","body":null,"created":"1751369747","gmt_created":"2025-07-01 11:35:47","changed":"1751369782","gmt_changed":"2025-07-01 11:36:22","alt":"Tech Tower","file":{"fid":"261201","name":"tech-tower.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/01\/tech-tower.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/01\/tech-tower.png","mime":"image\/png","size":3688196,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/07\/01\/tech-tower.png?itok=k1paARgU"}}},"media_ids":["677315"],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"136","name":"Aerospace"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"145","name":"Engineering"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"188087","name":"go-irim"},{"id":"187582","name":"go-ibb"},{"id":"172970","name":"go-neuro"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"},{"id":"193658","name":"Commercialization"},{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"193653","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute"},{"id":"193652","name":"Matter and Systems"},{"id":"193656","name":"Neuro Next Initiative"},{"id":"39521","name":"Robotics"},{"id":"193657","name":"Space Research Initiative"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71871","name":"Campus and Community"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto: laurie.haigh@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003ELaurie Haigh\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EResearch Communications\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"683063":{"#nid":"683063","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Sparking New Ideas on How Wildfire Influences Climate","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWildfires have spread across the planet for millennia, but they are increasing as the climate warms. Decimated forests, depleted crops, and destroyed buildings are the hallmark of wildfire devastation. Another is the effect on air quality and even the entire climate system. Researchers at Georgia Tech offer solutions for not only surviving \u2014 but also benefiting from \u2014 fire.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/node\/43519\u0022\u003ERead more \u00bb\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"Georgia Tech researchers monitor wildfires and their impact on air quality and the climate system."}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWildfires have spread across the planet for millennia, but they are increasing as the climate warms. Decimated forests, depleted crops, and destroyed buildings are the hallmark of wildfire devastation. Another is the effect on air quality and even the entire climate system. Researchers at Georgia Tech offer solutions for not only surviving \u2014 but also benefiting from \u2014 fire.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech researchers monitor wildfires and their impact on air quality and the climate system."}],"uid":"27255","created_gmt":"2025-07-09 19:19:30","changed_gmt":"2025-12-31 16:55:40","author":"Josie Giles","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-07-09T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-07-09T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677377":{"id":"677377","type":"image","title":"climate-fire-thumb.jpg","body":null,"created":"1752088776","gmt_created":"2025-07-09 19:19:36","changed":"1752088776","gmt_changed":"2025-07-09 19:19:36","alt":"A male and female researcher working with a metal piece of equipment outdoors with trees and grass in the background","file":{"fid":"261271","name":"climate-fire-thumb.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/09\/climate-fire-thumb.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/09\/climate-fire-thumb.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":952080,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/07\/09\/climate-fire-thumb.jpg?itok=pKFlhVQ6"}}},"media_ids":["677377"],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"154","name":"Environment"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"683264":{"#nid":"683264","#data":{"type":"news","title":" How the World\u2019s Nuclear Watchdog Monitors Facilities Around the World \u2013 and What it Means That Iran Kicked it Out","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat happens when a country seeks to develop a peaceful nuclear energy program? Every peaceful program starts with a promise not to build a nuclear weapon. Then, the global community verifies that stated intent via the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/disarmament.unoda.org\/wmd\/nuclear\/npt\/\u0022\u003ETreaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOnce a country signs the treaty, the world\u2019s nuclear watchdog, the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.iaea.org\/\u0022\u003EInternational Atomic Energy Agency\u003C\/a\u003E, provides continuous and technical proof that the country\u2019s nuclear program is peaceful.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe IAEA ensures that countries operate their programs within the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.iaea.org\/topics\/safeguards-legal-framework\/more-on-safeguards-agreements\u0022\u003Elimits of nonproliferation agreements\u003C\/a\u003E: low enrichment and no reactor misuse. Part of the agreement allows the IAEA to \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.iaea.org\/topics\/additional-protocol\u0022\u003Einspect nuclear-related sites\u003C\/a\u003E, including unannounced surprise visits.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese are not just log reviews. Inspectors know what should and should not be there. When the IAEA is not on site, cameras, tamper-revealing seals on equipment and real-time radiation monitors are working full-time to gather or verify inside information about the program\u2019s activities.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ESafeguards Toolkit\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe IAEA safeguards toolkit is designed to detect proliferation activities early. Much of the work is fairly technical. The safeguards toolkit combines physical surveillance, material tracking, data analytics and scientific sampling. Inspectors are chemists, physicists and nuclear engineers. They count spent fuel rods in a cooling pond. They check tamper seals on centrifuges. Often, the inspectors walk miles through hallways and corridors carrying heavy equipment.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat\u2019s how the world learned in April 2021 about Iran pushing uranium enrichment from reactor-fuel-grade to near-weapons-grade levels. IAEA inspectors were \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.iaea.org\/sites\/default\/files\/documents\/govinf2021-26.pdf\u0022\u003Eable to verify\u003C\/a\u003E that Iran was feeding uranium into a series of centrifuges designed to enrich the uranium from 5%, used for energy programs, to 60%, which is a step toward the 90% level used in nuclear weapons.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAround the facilities, whether for uranium enrichment or plutonium processing, closed-circuit surveillance cameras monitor for undeclared materials or post-work activities. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.iaea.org\/newscenter\/news\/new-seals-to-verify-the-use-of-nuclear-material-and-technology-demonstrated-at-iaea-general-conference\u0022\u003ESeals around the facilities\u003C\/a\u003E provide evidence that uranium gas cylinders have not been tampered with or that centrifuges operate at the declared levels. Beyond seals, online enrichment monitors allow inspectors to look inside of centrifuges for any changes in the declared enrichment process.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESeals verify whether nuclear equipment or materials have been used between onsite inspections.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen the inspectors are on-site, they collect environmental swipes: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.iaea.org\/newscenter\/news\/swipe-check-collecting-and-analysing-environmental-samples-nuclear-verification\u0022\u003Esamples of nuclear materials on surfaces\u003C\/a\u003E, in dust or in the air. These can reveal if uranium has been enriched to levels beyond those allowed by the agreement. Or if plutonium, which is not used in nuclear power plants, is being produced in a reactor. Swipes are precise. They can identify enrichment levels from a particle smaller than a speck of dust. But they take time, days or weeks. Inspectors analyze the samples at the IAEA\u2019s laboratories using sophisticated equipment called mass spectrometers.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition to physical samples, IAEA inspectors look at the logs of material inventories. They look for diversion of uranium or plutonium from normal process lines, just like accountants trace the flow of finances, except that their verification is supported by the ever-watching online monitors and radiation sensors. They also \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.iaea.org\/topics\/verification-and-other-safeguards-activities\u0022\u003Ecount items of interest\u003C\/a\u003E and weigh them for additional verification of the logs.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeyond accounting for materials, IAEA inspectors verify that the facility \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.iaea.org\/topics\/verification-and-other-safeguards-activities\u0022\u003Ematches the declared design\u003C\/a\u003E. For example, if a country is expanding centrifuge halls to increase its enrichment capabilities, that\u2019s a red flag. Changes to the layout of material processing laboratories near nuclear reactors could be a sign that the program is preparing to produce unauthorized plutonium.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ELosing Access\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIran announced on June 28, 2025, that it has \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.politico.eu\/article\/iran-ban-iaea-chief-rafael-grossi-surveillance-camera-nuclear-plant\/\u0022\u003Eended its cooperation with the IAEA\u003C\/a\u003E. It removed the monitoring devices, including surveillance cameras, from centrifuge halls. This move followed the news by the IAEA that Iran\u2019s enrichment activities are well outside of allowed levels. Iran now operates \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/why-the-us-bombed-a-bunch-of-metal-tubes-a-nuclear-engineer-explains-the-importance-of-centrifuges-to-iranian-efforts-to-build-nuclear-weapons-259883\u0022\u003Esophisticated uranium centrifuges\u003C\/a\u003E, like models IR-6 and IR-9.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERemoving IAEA access means that the international community loses insight into how quickly Iran\u2019s program can accumulate weapon-grade uranium, or how much it has produced. Also lost is information about whether the facility is undergoing changes for proliferation purposes. These processes are difficult to detect with external surveillance, like satellites, alone.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/680796\/original\/file-20250717-56-yh9yjg.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/680796\/original\/file-20250717-56-yh9yjg.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 alt=\u0022a satellite view of a complex of buidlings on a desert landscape\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EA satellite view of Iran\u2019s Arak Nuclear Complex, which has a reactor capable of producing plutonium. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gettyimages.com\/detail\/news-photo\/maxar-satellite-imagery-shows-the-arak-heavy-water-reactor-news-photo\/2220199432\u0022\u003ESatellite image (c) 2025 Maxar Technologies via Getty Images\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAn alternative to the uranium enrichment path for producing nuclear weapons material is plutonium. Plutonium can\u2019t be mined, it has to be produced in a nuclear reactor. Iran built a reactor \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/isis-online.org\/uploads\/isis-reports\/documents\/Plutonium_Pathway_Final.pdf\u0022\u003Ecapable of producing plutonium\u003C\/a\u003E, the IR-40 Heavy Water Research Reactor at the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nti.org\/education-center\/facilities\/arak-nuclear-complex\/\u0022\u003EArak Nuclear Complex\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIran modified the Arak reactor under the now-defunct \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/question\/What-is-the-Iran-nuclear-deal-and-why-was-it-scrapped\u0022\u003EJoint Comprehensive Plan of Action\u003C\/a\u003E to make plutonium production less likely. During the June 2025 missile attacks, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/defence-blog.com\/israel-hits-irans-arak-reactor\/\u0022\u003EIsrael targeted Arak\u2019s facilities\u003C\/a\u003E with the aim of eliminating the possibility of plutonium production.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith IAEA access suspended, it won\u2019t be possible to see what happens inside the facility. Can the reactor be used for plutonium production? Although a lengthier process than the uranium enrichment path, plutonium provides a parallel path to uranium enrichment for developing nuclear weapons.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EContinuity of Knowledge\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENorth Korea \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.iaea.org\/newscenter\/pressreleases\/iaea-inspectors-depart-dprk\u0022\u003Eexpelled IAEA inspectors\u003C\/a\u003E in 2009. Within a few years, they \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/carnegieendowment.org\/posts\/2021\/09\/what-the-restarting-of-north-koreas-yongbyon-reactor-means?lang=en\u0022\u003Erestarted activities\u003C\/a\u003E related to uranium enrichment and plutonium production in the Yongbyon reactor. The international community\u2019s information about North Korea\u2019s weapons program now relies solely on external methods: satellite images, radioactive particles like xenon \u2013 airborne fingerprints of nuclear activities \u2013 and seismic data.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat is lost is the continuity of the knowledge, a chain of verification over time. Once the seals are broken or cameras are removed, that chain is lost, and so is confidence about what is happening at the facilities.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen it comes to IAEA inspections, there is no single tool that paints the whole picture. Surveillance plus sampling plus accounting provide validation and confidence. Losing even one weakens the system in the long term.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe existing safeguards regime is meant to detect violations. The countries that sign the nonproliferation treaty know that they are always watched, and that plays a deterrence role. The inspectors can\u2019t just resume the verification activities after some time if access is lost. Future access won\u2019t necessarily enable inspectors to clarify what happened during the gap.\u003C!-- Below is The Conversation\u0027s page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --\u003E\u003Cimg src=\u0022https:\/\/counter.theconversation.com\/content\/260689\/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic\u0022 alt=\u0022The Conversation\u0022 width=\u00221\u0022 height=\u00221\u0022\u003E\u003C!-- End of code. If you don\u0027t see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https:\/\/theconversation.com\/republishing-guidelines --\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis article is republished from \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThe Conversation\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E under a Creative Commons license. Read the \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/how-the-worlds-nuclear-watchdog-monitors-facilities-around-the-world-and-what-it-means-that-iran-kicked-it-out-260689\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003Eoriginal article\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"full_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWhat happens when a country seeks to develop a peaceful nuclear energy program?\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"What happens when a country seeks to develop a peaceful nuclear energy program?"}],"uid":"27469","created_gmt":"2025-07-24 17:48:38","changed_gmt":"2025-12-31 16:40:29","author":"Kristen Bailey","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-07-20T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-07-20T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677480":{"id":"677480","type":"image","title":"This travel case holds a toolkit containing equipment for inspecting nuclear facilities","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThis travel case holds a toolkit containing equipment for inspecting nuclear facilities. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/iaea_imagebank\/30483028477\/\u0022\u003EDean Calma\/IAEA\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/4.0\/\u0022\u003ECC BY\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1753379503","gmt_created":"2025-07-24 17:51:43","changed":"1753379503","gmt_changed":"2025-07-24 17:51:43","alt":"This travel case holds a toolkit containing equipment for inspecting nuclear facilities","file":{"fid":"261382","name":"file-20250717-56-7a42gj.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/24\/file-20250717-56-7a42gj.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/24\/file-20250717-56-7a42gj.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":313068,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/07\/24\/file-20250717-56-7a42gj.jpg?itok=oZugr_QX"}}},"media_ids":["677480"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/theconversation.com\/how-the-worlds-nuclear-watchdog-monitors-facilities-around-the-world-and-what-it-means-that-iran-kicked-it-out-260689","title":"Read This Article on The Conversation"}],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"193652","name":"Matter and Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71881","name":"Science and Technology"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Ch5\u003EAuthor:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/profiles\/anna-erickson-2420881\u0022\u003EAnna Erickson\u003C\/a\u003E, professor of Nuclear and Radiological Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch5\u003EMedia Contact:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShelley Wunder-Smith\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:shelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003Eshelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"683422":{"#nid":"683422","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Mapping Georgia\u2019s Urban Forest: Georgia Tech Tools Help Planners Prioritize Tree Canopy","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EFor more than 15 years, Georgia Tech has provided the City of Atlanta with the foundational data and insight that shape how the city tracks, understands, and plans for changes in its tree canopy. The latest cycle of this research \u2014 delivered through the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/resilience.research.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ECenter for Urban Resilience and Analytics (CURA)\u003C\/a\u003E \u2014 continues that legacy by offering a high-resolution, citywide canopy assessment using satellite imagery and field validation.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe assessment, funded by the city\u2019s Tree Recompense Fund, uses advanced remote sensing tools such as WorldView-2 satellite data and a random forest classification model to categorize land into three land cover types. These include tree canopy, non-tree vegetation (grass, shrubs, and low lying vegetation) and non-vegetation (water, pervious surface). The methodology delivers a detailed spatial picture of land cover across the city.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThis is simply a tool in their planning arsenal,\u201d said \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/planning.gatech.edu\/people\/tony-giarrusso\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAnthony Giarrusso\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, who has led every canopy study since 2008. \u201cBefore they did any of this work in 2008, everything was anecdotal. It was reactionary.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe new study is not advocacy \u2014 it\u2019s information. Giarrusso emphasized that while researchers stay neutral in the politics of urban growth and conservation, their work equips city leaders with science-based knowledge to make more effective zoning and planning decisions.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition to mapping existing conditions, the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/storymaps.arcgis.com\/stories\/b53452fbad5c4cc6a237940bcd08bd7d\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGeorgia Tech team developed the Potential Planting Index (PPI)\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, a scalable tool that identifies where tree planting is physically possible based on current land cover. The tool quantifies the difference between tree canopy and non-tree vegetation, indicating zones with restoration potential.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother key insight is the challenge of interpreting canopy change without understanding land use patterns. \u201cIt gives you a false sense of stability if you don\u2019t understand the underlying land use,\u201d said Giarrusso. \u201cYou might see canopy regrowth on paper, but that land could be cleared again tomorrow.\u201d He explained that this false signal is particularly common in stalled development sites: \u201cWe saw a lot of properties where trees had regrown after initial clearing, but it was temporary and monoculture, low quality canopy. Several of those areas were cleared again for construction later.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGiarrusso pointed to these \u201closs-gain-loss\u201d cycles as one of the more misleading aspects of tree canopy analysis without strong land use context. \u201cSome of them were pipe farms \u2014 land cleared for development with infrastructure like water and sewer lines installed, but then construction never happened. So trees grow back, and you get a canopy gain that doesn\u2019t last and is nowhere near the quality of the trees originally cleared.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHe stressed that policymakers need to consider the permanence of canopy when using the data. \u201cIf it\u2019s just going to be cleared again in two years, it\u2019s not really a gain. That\u2019s why long-term tracking and land use analysis together are so important.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe city has incorporated these tools into broader planning efforts, including zoning reform and tree ordinance revisions. The research supports recommendations such as restricting full lot clearing in certain zoning categories and adjusting setback or lot coverage limits to better preserve existing canopy.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGiarrusso underscored the urgency of protecting larger, intact forested tracts. \u201cIf you can see it from space and it\u2019s still forest \u2014 save it,\u201d he said. \u201cOnce it\u2019s cleared, you don\u2019t get it back.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech researchers developed new statewide canopy assessment tools to help urban planners, policymakers, and communities make data-informed decisions for climate resilience.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech researchers developed new statewide canopy assessment tools to help urban planners, policymakers, and communities make data-informed decisions for climate resilience."}],"uid":"36761","created_gmt":"2025-07-31 19:26:56","changed_gmt":"2025-12-31 16:38:16","author":"malonso35","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-07-31T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-07-31T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"587356":{"id":"587356","type":"image","title":"Trees around Einstein Statue","body":null,"created":"1487015393","gmt_created":"2017-02-13 19:49:53","changed":"1487015393","gmt_changed":"2017-02-13 19:49:53","alt":"Trees around Einstein","file":{"fid":"223847","name":"16C10400-P15-015.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/16C10400-P15-015.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/16C10400-P15-015.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":2802823,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/images\/16C10400-P15-015.jpg?itok=uBcC4GSz"}}},"media_ids":["587356"],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"142","name":"City Planning, Transportation, and Urban Growth"},{"id":"42901","name":"Community"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"179325","name":"urban canopy"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"39511","name":"Public Service, Leadership, and Policy"},{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71871","name":"Campus and Community"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":["Melissa.Alonso@design.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"683964":{"#nid":"683964","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Farming for the Future of the Planet: How Liming Could Be Key for Carbon Removal","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EOverly acidic soils can mean the difference between feeding a region and famine. Each crop needs the right soil pH to thrive, and acidic conditions, produced primarily by industrial emissions and application of fertilizers,\u0026nbsp;can harm growing conditions. It has recently been estimated that sub-Saharan Africa, for example, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s43016-025-01194-z\u0022\u003Eloses\u003C\/a\u003E billions of dollars annually in crop yield because of poor agricultural conditions. But there is a possible solution \u2014 and it could even help the Earth\u2019s climate.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor centuries, farmers have neutralized soil acidity with a practice called liming. It involves mixing crushed calcium- or magnesium-rich rocks, known as limestone, into the soil to balance pH. But liming has long been an assumed tradeoff in which removing acid also meant increasing carbon emissions into the atmosphere.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENew research from Georgia Tech shows that the opposite may be true. Agricultural liming can actually reduce atmospheric carbon dioxide \u003Cem\u003Eand\u003C\/em\u003E improve crop yield.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe current thinking about liming is that farmers must choose between doing something that could benefit them economically or reducing their greenhouse gas emissions,\u201d said \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/reinhard.gatech.edu\/chris-reinhard.html\u0022\u003EChris Reinhard\u003C\/a\u003E, an associate professor in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/eas.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences\u003C\/a\u003E. \u201cBut this is often a false choice. They can do both.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe researchers published a new framework for the potential role of liming in food security and greenhouse gas mitigation in August in the paper, \u201c\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s44221-025-00473-0\u0022\u003EUsing Carbonates for Carbon Removal,\u003C\/a\u003E\u201d in \u003Cem\u003ENature Water\u003C\/em\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECollecting Carbon Data\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe framework is based in part on ongoing work Reinhard and his collaborators are pursuing on the impacts of agricultural liming in the Upper Midwest\u2019s Corn Belt for a Department of Energy study. With funding from the Grantham Foundation, they\u2019re now turning their attention to local farms in southern Georgia and North Carolina.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor each farm, the researchers measure data that most farmers would collect already, like soil pH and nutrients. But the team also tracks more specialized measurements, including trace elements and greenhouse gas fluxes in the soil. All this data is matched to a high-resolution, machine learning grid of the farm\u2019s geography to determine exactly which crops might benefit.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe researchers are using the data to build a computer model that predicts how carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases will move through any particular soil system. Liming won\u2019t universally absorb carbon dioxide \u2014 or if it does, there may be an occasional time delay between carbon emissions and absorption \u2014 which is why the researchers factor soil, crop rotation, climate, and other management practices into their calculations.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cOur goal is to develop a way that farmers can monitor and plan cheaply, and largely through techniques they are already using, so we don\u0027t have to send out a whole team to gather data,\u201d Reinhard said. \u201cWe are trying to develop a predictive model architecture for planning agricultural practice across scales, but it\u2019s important that the techniques required on the field are actually feasible for farmers.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis data could be pivotal for farmers, and it could also help policymakers as they address farming subsidies and foreign aid funding. Globally, food-insecure regions like sub-Saharan Africa could become more self-sufficient with more liming. Farmers in parts of the U.S. could also improve their yields and, in effect, their profits, if they limed more fields.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe added benefit of lowering carbon could get even more farmers on board, and there is extensive exploration and implementation of agricultural practices already on voluntary and governmental carbon markets. Carbon dioxide is only one greenhouse gas that liming can lower; researchers are also exploring how liming can reduce methane and nitrous oxide \u2014 the latter of which is a key climate impact of human agriculture and is often considered a \u201chard-to-abate\u201d emission.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELiming may be a centuries-old practice, but its applications are potentially much wider than initially believed. In the future, farming may be part of the answer to reducing carbon emissions, instead of part of the problem.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELiming, a centuries-old agricultural practice, can improve crop yield and greenhouse gas reduction.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Liming, a centuries-old agricultural practice, can improve crop yield and greenhouse gas reduction. "}],"uid":"34541","created_gmt":"2025-08-19 17:57:58","changed_gmt":"2025-12-31 16:35:44","author":"Tess Malone","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-08-19T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-08-19T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677739":{"id":"677739","type":"image","title":"AdobeStock_445557503.jpeg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EA tractor applying lime to mitigate acidity in the soil. [Adobe Stock]\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1755626294","gmt_created":"2025-08-19 17:58:14","changed":"1755626294","gmt_changed":"2025-08-19 17:58:14","alt":"A tractor applying lime","file":{"fid":"261673","name":"AdobeStock_445557503.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/19\/AdobeStock_445557503.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/19\/AdobeStock_445557503.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":11458364,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/08\/19\/AdobeStock_445557503.jpeg?itok=4fZDo7bg"}}},"media_ids":["677739"],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71911","name":"Earth and Environment"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ETess Malone, Senior Research Writer\/Editor\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003Etess.malone@gatech.edu\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"684959":{"#nid":"684959","#data":{"type":"news","title":"New Links in Air Pollution and Dementia","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EScientists at Georgia Tech have teamed up with researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine and Columbia University to better understand how certain types of air pollution increase the risk of developing dementia.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003ETheir findings, published this month in the journal\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.science.org\/doi\/10.1126\/science.adu4132\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EScience\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, help explain how small particle pollution \u2014 think industrial emissions and car exhaust, wildfires and burning wood for heat and cooking \u2014 can lead to Lewy body dementia, a devastating disease that causes toxic clumps of protein to destroy nerve cells in the brain.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u0022Epidemiological studies have suggested a strong link between air pollution and dementia, but what sets this study apart is that we also provide a convincing biological mechanism,\u201d says\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/eas.gatech.edu\/people\/liu-pengfei-0\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPengfei Liu\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, assistant professor\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/eas.gatech.edu\u0022\u003ESchool of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences\u003C\/a\u003E and one of the study\u2019s co-authors. \u201cThis collaborative work shows that fine particulate matter from different geographic regions consistently triggers a specific stain of misfolded protein that drives Lewy body dementia.\u0022\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EThe work has \u201cprofound implications\u201d for helping scientists and policy makers better understand measures to prevent this type of dementia, which is among the most common forms of the disease and affects millions of people around the world.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EAlong with Liu, the research team from Georgia Tech includes\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/rweber.eas.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERodney Weber\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, professor in the School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences;\u0026nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EMinhan Park\u003C\/strong\u003E, a postdoctoral research fellow co-advised by Liu and Weber;\u0026nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBin Bai\u003C\/strong\u003E, a graduate student in Liu\u2019s lab; and\u0026nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EMa Cristine Faye Denna\u003C\/strong\u003E, a graduate student in Weber\u2019s lab.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u201cFiguring out how exposure to atmospheric aerosols might be linked to dementia, and what mechanisms are involved, is a complex and challenging problem \u2014\u0026nbsp;and as this study shows, it takes a large team with many different areas of expertise,\u201d Weber adds.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELearn more:\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.science.org\/doi\/10.1126\/science.adu4132\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EScience\u003C\/em\u003E: Lewy body dementia promotion by air pollutants\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.hopkinsmedicine.org\/news\/newsroom\/news-releases\/2025\/09\/researchers-reveal-potential-molecular-link-between-air-pollutants-and-increased-risk-of-lewy-body-dementia\u0022\u003EJohns Hopkins Medicine newsroom\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.publichealth.columbia.edu\/news\/potential-molecular-link-between-air-pollutants-increased-risk-lewy-body-dementia-revealed\u0022\u003EColumbia University newsroom\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/environment\/2025\/sep\/04\/fine-particulate-air-pollution-trigger-forms-dementia-study-lewy-body\u0022\u003EPress: \u003Cem\u003EThe Guardian\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EScientists at Georgia Tech have teamed up with researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine and Columbia University to better understand how certain types of air pollution increase the risk of developing dementia.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Scientists team up to better understand how certain types of air pollution increase the risk of developing dementia.\u00a0"}],"uid":"34528","created_gmt":"2025-09-16 21:26:52","changed_gmt":"2025-12-30 19:50:28","author":"jhunt7","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-09-16T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-09-16T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678035":{"id":"678035","type":"image","title":"Car exhaust (Adobe: elcovalana)","body":null,"created":"1758058019","gmt_created":"2025-09-16 21:26:59","changed":"1758058019","gmt_changed":"2025-09-16 21:26:59","alt":"Car exhaust (Adobe: elcovalana)","file":{"fid":"262013","name":"Car-exhaust---elcovalana.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/16\/Car-exhaust---elcovalana.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/16\/Car-exhaust---elcovalana.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":952683,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/16\/Car-exhaust---elcovalana.jpeg?itok=UiPeGoBL"}}},"media_ids":["678035"],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"61541","name":"Earth and Atmospheric Sciences"},{"id":"172970","name":"go-neuro"},{"id":"184361","name":"brain health"},{"id":"5076","name":"dementia"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71911","name":"Earth and Environment"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:jess@cos.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EJess Hunt-Ralston\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EDirector of Communications\u003Cbr\u003ECollege of Sciences at Georgia Tech\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["jess@cos.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"684913":{"#nid":"684913","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Meet the Microbes: What a Warming Wetland Reveals About Earth\u2019s Carbon Future","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EBetween a third and half of all soil carbon on Earth is stored in peatlands, says\u0026nbsp;Tom and Marie Patton Distinguished Professor\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/biosciences.gatech.edu\/people\/joel-kostka\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJoel Kostka\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E. These wetlands \u2014 formed from layers and layers of decaying plant matter \u2014 span from the Arctic to the tropics, supporting biodiversity and regulating global climate.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u201cPeatlands are essential carbon stores, but as temperatures warm, this carbon is in danger of being released as carbon dioxide and methane,\u201d says Kostka, who is also the\u0026nbsp;associate chair for Research in the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/biosciences.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Biological Sciences\u003C\/a\u003E and the director of\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gatech.edu\/news\/2024\/12\/04\/college-sciences-launches-new-center-georgia-tech-georgias-tomorrow\u0022\u003EGeorgia Tech for Georgia\u2019s Tomorrow\u003C\/a\u003E. Understanding the ratio of carbon dioxide to methane is critical, he adds, because while both are greenhouse gasses, methane is significantly more potent.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EKostka is the corresponding author of a new study unearthing how and why peatlands are producing carbon dioxide and methane.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EThe research, \u201c\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s41467-025-61664-7\u0022\u003ENorthern peatland microbial communities exhibit resistance to warming and acquire electron acceptors from soil organic matter\u003C\/a\u003E,\u201d was published this summer in\u0026nbsp;\u003Cem\u003ENature Communications\u003C\/em\u003E, and was led by co-first authors\u0026nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBorja Aldeguer-Riquelme,\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003Ea\u0026nbsp;postdoctoral research associate in the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/enve-omics.gatech.edu\/people\/\u0022\u003EEnvironmental Microbial Genomics Laboratory,\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003Eand\u003Cstrong\u003E Katherine Duchesneau\u003C\/strong\u003E, a\u0026nbsp;Ph.D. student in the School of Biological Sciences.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EThe study builds on a decade of research at the Oak Ridge National Lab\u2019s\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/mnspruce.ornl.gov\/\u0022\u003ESpruce and Peatland Responses Under Changing Environments (SPRUCE) experiment\u003C\/a\u003E, a long-term research project in Minnesota that allows researchers to warm whole sections of wetland from tree top to bog bottom.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u201cOver the past 10 years, we\u2019ve shown that warming in this large-scale climate experiment increases greenhouse gas production,\u201d Kostka says. \u201cBut while warming makes the bog produce more methane, we still observe a lot more CO2 production than methane. In this paper, we take a critical step towards discovering why \u2014 and describing the mechanisms that determine which gases are released and in what amounts.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMethane mystery\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EThe subdued methane production in peatlands has been a long-standing mystery. In water-saturated wetlands, oxygen is scarce, but microbes still need to respire \u2014 a type of \u2018breathing\u2019 that allows them to produce energy for metabolic function. Without oxygen, microbes use nitrate, sulfate, or metals to respire \u2014 still releasing carbon dioxide in the process. However, if these ingredients aren\u2019t present, microbes \u2018breathe\u2019 in a way that releases methane.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003ESince nitrate, sulfate, and metals are relatively rare in peatlands, methane production should be the most likely pathway, but surprisingly, observations show the opposite. \u201cIn both fieldwork and lab experiments, peatlands produce much more carbon dioxide than methane,\u201d Kostka explains. \u201cIt\u2019s puzzling because the soil conditions should help methane production dominate.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003ETo solve this mystery, the team leveraged a suite of cutting-edge genetic tools called \u201comics\u201d \u2014\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;metagenomics (studying DNA), metatranscriptomics (studying RNA), and metabolomics (a technique used to study the \u201cleftovers\u201d of metabolism), providing a detailed look under the hood of the microbial \u201cengine\u201d that cycles organic matter in wetlands. It also gave a new window into the diversity of soil microbes in wetlands: 80 percent of the organisms identified in the study were new at the genus level.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u2018Omics\u2019 innovations\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EOver the course of several years, the team collected samples from a peatland enclosed in an experimental chamber that was slowly warmed, then analyzed the samples using omics to see how they changed. Initially, they hypothesized that warming the soil would cause microbial communities to change quickly. \u201cMicrobes can evolve and grow rapidly,\u201d Kostka says. \u201cBut that didn\u2019t happen.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EThe DNA-based methods showed that while the microbial communities stayed largely stable, the bog did release more greenhouse gasses as it warmed. To assess the metabolic potential of the microbes, Duchesneau and Aldeguer-Riquelme constructed microbial genomes, investigating how they were decomposing the organic matter in peatlands and cycling carbon.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u201cWe found that microbial activity increases with warming, but the growth response of microbial communities lags behind these changes in physiological or metabolic activity,\u201d Kostka says.\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003EHe cautions that this doesn\u2019t necessarily mean that wetland communities won\u2019t change as climates warm\u0026nbsp;\u2014 just that these shifts might come behind metabolic ones.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA diversity of discoveries\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EAnd the methane? The team believes that microbes may be breaking down organic matter to access the key ingredients for producing carbon dioxide \u2014 nitrate, sulfate, and metals \u2014 though more research is currently underway to investigate this.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u201cDoing this type of integrated omics research in soil systems is still incredibly difficult,\u201d Kostka says. The challenge is multifaceted: the research leverages years of experiments, long-term datasets, advanced laboratory techniques, and fieldwork innovations.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EAt SPRUCE, experimental chambers are about 1,000 square feet. While it\u2019s an impressive experimental setup, researchers still must be careful: \u201cWe need to take soil samples for many years, so if we take too many, there\u2019d be no soil left!\u201d Kostka explains. \u201cPart of our research involves developing better, non-destructive sampling techniques.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EThe other challenge lies in what makes these peatlands so unique: it\u2019s very hard to detect small changes because of the sheer diversity of organisms present. \u201cEvery time we conduct this type of research, we learn more about these incredible systems,\u201d he says. \u201cThere\u2019s always something new.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EDOI: \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41467-025-61664-7\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Ehttps:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41467-025-61664-7\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EFunding: The Office of Biological and Environmental Research, Terrestrial Ecosystem Science Program and Genomic Science programs, under the US Department of Energy (DOE); the Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, a DOE Office of Science User Facility sponsored by the Biological and Environmental Research program. The SPRUCE experiment is funded by the Biological and Environmental Research program in the U.S. Department of Energy\u2019s Office of Science.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EBetween a third and half of all soil carbon on Earth is stored in peatlands, but as temperatures warm, this carbon is in danger of being released. A new study is unearthing the ratio of carbon dioxide to methane released \u2014 because while both are greenhouse gasses, methane is significantly more potent.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"A new study is unearthing how and why peatlands are producing carbon dioxide and methane.\u00a0"}],"uid":"35599","created_gmt":"2025-09-16 16:55:49","changed_gmt":"2025-12-30 19:46:51","author":"sperrin6","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-09-16T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-09-16T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678030":{"id":"678030","type":"image","title":"An aerial photo of the SPRUCE experiment.","body":"An arial photo of the SPRUCE experiment.","created":"1758051069","gmt_created":"2025-09-16 19:31:09","changed":"1758054915","gmt_changed":"2025-09-16 20:35:15","alt":"An aerial photo of the SPRUCE experiment.","file":{"fid":"262002","name":"SPRUCE-aerial.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/16\/SPRUCE-aerial.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/16\/SPRUCE-aerial.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":191796,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/16\/SPRUCE-aerial.jpg?itok=KXVV0CD8"}},"678031":{"id":"678031","type":"image","title":"Postdoctoral Researchers Caitlin Petro and Borja Aldeguer-Riquelme inside a SPRUCE chamber in 2023.","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPostdoctoral Researchers Caitlin Petro and Borja Aldeguer-Riquelme inside a SPRUCE chamber in 2023.\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1758051865","gmt_created":"2025-09-16 19:44:25","changed":"1758051865","gmt_changed":"2025-09-16 19:44:25","alt":"Postdoctoral Researchers Caitlin Petro and Borja Aldeguer-Riquelme inside a SPRUCE chamber in 2023.","file":{"fid":"262008","name":"Caitlin_Borja_chamber_23.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/16\/Caitlin_Borja_chamber_23.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/16\/Caitlin_Borja_chamber_23.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":37221,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/16\/Caitlin_Borja_chamber_23.jpg?itok=o_Yq6q6C"}},"678026":{"id":"678026","type":"image","title":"Ph.D. student Katherine Duchesneau sampling porewater inside an experimental SPRUCE chamber.","body":"Ph.D. student Katherine Duchesneau sampling porewater inside an experimental SPRUCE chamber.","created":"1758051069","gmt_created":"2025-09-16 19:31:09","changed":"1758051069","gmt_changed":"2025-09-16 19:31:09","alt":"Ph.D. student Katherine Duchesneau sampling porewater inside an experimental SPRUCE chamber.","file":{"fid":"261998","name":"IMG_6736.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/16\/IMG_6736.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/16\/IMG_6736.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":12526125,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/16\/IMG_6736.jpeg?itok=Fp_7PhLg"}},"678027":{"id":"678027","type":"image","title":"Postdoctoral Researcher Caitlin Petro, Ph.D. student Katherine Duchesneau, and undergraduate student Sekou Noble-Kuchera in a SPRUCE chamber.","body":"\u003Cp\u003EPostdoctoral Researcher Caitlin Petro, Ph.D. student Katherine Duchesneau, and undergraduate student Sekou Noble-Kuchera in a SPRUCE chamber.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1758051069","gmt_created":"2025-09-16 19:31:09","changed":"1758055106","gmt_changed":"2025-09-16 20:38:26","alt":"Postdoctoral Researcher Caitlin Petro, Ph.D. student Katherine Duchesneau, and undergraduate student Sekou Noble-Kuchera in a SPRUCE chamber.","file":{"fid":"261999","name":"IMG_6748.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/16\/IMG_6748.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/16\/IMG_6748.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":8678062,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/16\/IMG_6748.jpg?itok=DoMRfPfd"}},"678028":{"id":"678028","type":"image","title":"Joel Kostka at the SPRUCE experiment.","body":"\u003Cp\u003EJoel Kostka at the SPRUCE experiment.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1758051069","gmt_created":"2025-09-16 19:31:09","changed":"1758055048","gmt_changed":"2025-09-16 20:37:28","alt":"Joel Kostka at the SPRUCE experiment.","file":{"fid":"262000","name":"Joel-Kostka.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/16\/Joel-Kostka.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/16\/Joel-Kostka.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1324030,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/16\/Joel-Kostka.jpg?itok=eUOwhCkK"}}},"media_ids":["678030","678031","678026","678027","678028"],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"134","name":"Student and Faculty"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"192254","name":"cos-climate"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"},{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71911","name":"Earth and Environment"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWritten by \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto: sperrin6@gatech.edu\u0022\u003ESelena Langner\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"684993":{"#nid":"684993","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Why Do Big Oil Companies Invest in Green\u00a0Energy?","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv class=\u0022theconversation-article-body\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome major oil companies such as Shell and BP that once were touted as leading the way in clean energy investments are now \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.bbc.com\/news\/articles\/c3374ekd11po\u0022\u003Epulling back from those projects\u003C\/a\u003E to refocus on oil and gas production. Others, such as Exxon Mobil and Chevron, have concentrated on oil and gas but announced recent investments in carbon capture projects, as well as in \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/carboncredits.com\/chevron-joins-other-oil-majors-to-boost-the-u-s-lithium-supply-chain\/\u0022\u003Elithium\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2025\/09\/09\/business\/energy-environment\/exxon-mobil-graphite-electric-vehicles.html\u0022\u003Egraphite production for electric vehicle batteries\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENational oil companies have also been investing in renewable energy. For example, Saudi Aramco has \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.energypolicy.columbia.edu\/saudi-arabias-renewable-energy-initiatives-and-their-geopolitical-implications\/\u0022\u003Einvested in clean energy\u003C\/a\u003E while at the same time asserting that \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.cnbc.com\/2024\/03\/18\/saudi-aramco-ceo-says-energy-transition-is-failing-give-up-fantasy-of-phasing-out-oil.html\u0022\u003Eit\u2019s unrealistic to phase out oil and gas entirely\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut the larger question is why oil companies would invest in clean energy at all, especially at a time when many \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/thehill.com\/policy\/energy-environment\/5417842-trump-administration-cuts-green-energy\/\u0022\u003Efederal clean energy incentives are being eliminated\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/time.com\/7314000\/trump-administration-climate-report-scientists\/\u0022\u003Eclimate science is being dismantled\u003C\/a\u003E, at least in the United States.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome answers \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2024\/11\/18\/business\/energy-environment\/cop-oil-gas-green-energy.html\u0022\u003Edepend on whom you ask\u003C\/a\u003E. More traditional petroleum industry followers would urge the companies to keep focused on their core fossil fuel businesses to meet growing energy demand and corresponding near-term shareholder returns. Other shareholders and stakeholders concerned about \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.investopedia.com\/terms\/e\/environmental-social-and-governance-esg-criteria.asp\u0022\u003Esustainability\u003C\/a\u003E and the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.iisd.org\/articles\/press-release\/new-analysis-what-ipcc-energy-pathways-tell-us-about-paris-aligned-policies\u0022\u003Eclimate\u003C\/a\u003E \u2013 including an increasing number of \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.erm.com\/globalassets\/insights\/ermsi_annual_trends_report_2025_2.pdf#page=10\u0022\u003Ecompanies with sustainability goals\u003C\/a\u003E \u2013 would likely point out the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.deloitte.com\/us\/en\/insights\/industry\/renewable-energy\/renewable-energy-industry-outlook.html\u0022\u003Ebusiness opportunities for clean energy to meet global needs\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOther answers depend on the particular company itself. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.ipaa.org\/independent-producers\/\u0022\u003EVery small producers\u003C\/a\u003E have different business plans than very large private and public companies. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/kleinmanenergy.upenn.edu\/commentary\/podcast\/why-oil-companies-support-renewable-energy\/\u0022\u003EGeography and regional policies can also play a key role\u003C\/a\u003E. And \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.numberanalytics.com\/blog\/national-oil-companies-energy-economics\u0022\u003Egovernment-owned companies\u003C\/a\u003E such as Saudi Aramco, Gazprom and the China National Petroleum Corp. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.iisd.org\/publications\/report\/energy-transitions-national-oil-companies\u0022\u003Econtrol the majority\u003C\/a\u003E of the world\u2019s oil and gas resources with revenues that support their national economies.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDespite the relatively \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.iea.org\/reports\/world-energy-investment-2024\/overview-and-key-findings\u0022\u003Emodest scale of investment in clean energy\u003C\/a\u003E by oil and gas companies so far, there are several business reasons oil companies would increase their investments in clean energy over time.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe oil and gas industry has provided energy that has helped create much of modern society and technology, though those advances have also come with significant environmental and social costs. My own experience in the oil industry gave me insight into how at least some of these companies try to reconcile this tension and to make \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.erss.2022.102800\u0022\u003Estrategic portfolio decisions regarding what \u201cgreen\u201d technologies to invest in\u003C\/a\u003E. Now the managing director and a \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.scheller.gatech.edu\/directory\/faculty\/oxman\/index.html\u0022\u003Eprofessor of the practice\u003C\/a\u003E at the Ray C. Anderson Center for Sustainable Business at Georgia Tech, I seek ways to eliminate the boundaries and identify mutually reinforcing innovations among \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.weforum.org\/stories\/2024\/01\/climate-action-for-profitable-business-growth\u0022\u003Ebusiness interests and environmental concerns\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-center zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/687570\/original\/file-20250826-55-mka3uw.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022People march holding signs objecting to fossil fuels.\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/687570\/original\/file-20250826-55-mka3uw.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/687570\/original\/file-20250826-55-mka3uw.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=400\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/687570\/original\/file-20250826-55-mka3uw.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=400\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/687570\/original\/file-20250826-55-mka3uw.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=400\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/687570\/original\/file-20250826-55-mka3uw.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=503\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/687570\/original\/file-20250826-55-mka3uw.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=503\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/687570\/original\/file-20250826-55-mka3uw.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=503\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003EProtesters call for companies and international organizations to reduce their spending on fossil fuels.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Ca class=\u0022source\u0022 href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gettyimages.com\/detail\/news-photo\/protesters-march-in-protest-outside-of-the-imf-world-bank-news-photo\/2147931402\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution\u0022\u003EKent Nishimura\/Getty Images\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EDiversification and Financial Drivers\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJust like financial advisers tell you to \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.fidelity.com\/viewpoints\/investing-ideas\/guide-to-diversification\u0022\u003Ediversify your 401(k) investments\u003C\/a\u003E, companies do so to weather different kinds of volatility, from commodity prices to political instability. Oil and gas markets are \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.numberanalytics.com\/blog\/maximizing-returns-diversification-petroleum-economics\u0022\u003Enotoriously cyclical\u003C\/a\u003E, so investments in clean energy can hedge against these shifts for companies and investors alike.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EClean energy can also provide opportunities for new revenue. Many customers want to buy clean energy, and oil companies want to be \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.erss.2023.103253\u0022\u003Epositioned to cash in\u003C\/a\u003E as this transition occurs. By developing employees\u2019 expertise and investing in emerging technologies, they can be ready for commercial opportunities in biofuels, renewable natural gas, hydrogen and other pathways that may overlap with their existing, core business competencies.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFossil fuel companies have also found what other companies have: Clean energy can reduce costs. Some oil companies not only invest in energy efficiency for their buildings but use \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research-hub.nrel.gov\/en\/publications\/approaches-for-integrating-renewable-energy-technologies-in-oil-a-3\u0022\u003Esolar or wind to power their wells\u003C\/a\u003E. And adding renewable energy to their activities can also \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/systemschangelab.org\/finance\/scale-down-investment-harmful-climate-and-nature\/cost-capital-fossil-fuel-production\u0022\u003Elower the cost of investing in these companies\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EPublic Pressure\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll companies, including those in oil and gas, are under \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1002\/wcc.919\u0022\u003Egrowing pressure to address climate change\u003C\/a\u003E, from the public, from other companies with whom they do business and from government regulators \u2013 at least outside the U.S. For example, campaigns seeking to \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/trellis.net\/article\/how-the-fossil-fuel-industry-is-fighting-for-legitimacy-by-using-big-tobaccos-playbook\u0022\u003Ereduce investment in fossil fuels\u003C\/a\u003E are increasing along with \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2025\/06\/22\/climate\/oil-industry-anti-slapp-climate-lawsuits.html\u0022\u003Eclimate-related lawsuits\u003C\/a\u003E. Government policies focused on both \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/commission.europa.eu\/topics\/energy\/repowereu_en\u0022\u003Emitigating carbon emissions and enhancing energy independence\u003C\/a\u003E are also making headway in some locations.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn response, many oil companies are \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.woodmac.com\/news\/opinion\/how-will-oil-and-gas-companies-get-to-scope-3-net-zero\/\u0022\u003Ereducing their own operational emissions\u003C\/a\u003E and setting targets to \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.woodmac.com\/news\/opinion\/infographic-scope-for-improvement\/\u0022\u003Eoffset or eliminate emissions from products\u003C\/a\u003E that they sell \u2013 though many observers \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/transitionpathwayinitiative.org\/publications\/uploads\/2024-setting-the-standard-assessing-oil-and-gas-companies-transition-plans\u0022\u003Equestion the viability of these commitments\u003C\/a\u003E. Other companies are investing in emerging technologies such as hydrogen and methods to \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/carboncredits.com\/prairie-operating-co-and-the-oil-industrys-shift-toward-sustainable-energy-practices-prop\/\u0022\u003Eremove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome companies, such as BP and Equinor, have previously even gone so far as \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.qbco.io\/insights\/strategic-rebranding-in-the-energy-sector-lessons-from-the-past-and-present\u0022\u003Erebranding themselves\u003C\/a\u003E and acquiring clean energy businesses. But those efforts have also been criticized as \u201c\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.un.org\/en\/climatechange\/science\/climate-issues\/greenwashing\u0022\u003Egreenwashing\u003C\/a\u003E,\u201d taking actions for public relations value rather than real results.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-center zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/687571\/original\/file-20250826-55-ciyuy3.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022A net containing fish is pulled aboard a fishing vessel.\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/687571\/original\/file-20250826-55-ciyuy3.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/687571\/original\/file-20250826-55-ciyuy3.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=400\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/687571\/original\/file-20250826-55-ciyuy3.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=400\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/687571\/original\/file-20250826-55-ciyuy3.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=400\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/687571\/original\/file-20250826-55-ciyuy3.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=503\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/687571\/original\/file-20250826-55-ciyuy3.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=503\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/687571\/original\/file-20250826-55-ciyuy3.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=503\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003EFishing, like energy production, does not have to be done in ways that damage the environment.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Ca class=\u0022source\u0022 href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gettyimages.com\/detail\/photo\/net-full-of-salmon-being-hauled-onto-purse-seiner-royalty-free-image\/1200731386\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution\u0022\u003EThomas Barwick\/DigitalVision via Getty Images\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHow Far Can This Go?\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt is even possible for a fossil fuel company to reinvent itself as a \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/pii\/S2214629623002712\u0022\u003Eclean energy operation\u003C\/a\u003E. Denmark\u2019s Orsted \u2013 formerly known as Danish Oil and Natural Gas \u2013 transitioned from fossil fuels to become a global leader in offshore wind. The company, whose majority owner is the Danish government, made the shift, however, with the help of significant public and political support.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut most large oil companies \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.erss.2023.103194\u0022\u003Earen\u2019t likely to completely reinvent themselves\u003C\/a\u003E anytime soon. Making that change requires leadership, investor pressure, customer demand and shifts in government policy, such as putting a \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/carbonpricingdashboard.worldbank.org\/what-carbon-pricing\u0022\u003Eprice or tax on carbon emissions\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo show students in my sustainability classes how companies\u2019 choices affect both the environment and the industry as a whole, I use the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/mitsloan.mit.edu\/teaching-resources-library\/fishbanks-a-renewable-resource-management-simulation\u0022\u003EMIT Fishbanks simulation\u003C\/a\u003E. Students run fictional fishing companies competing for profit. Even when they know the fish population is finite, they overfish, leading to the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/online.hbs.edu\/blog\/post\/tragedy-of-the-commons-impact-on-sustainability-issues\u0022\u003Ecollapse of the fishery and its businesses\u003C\/a\u003E. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/rpc.cfainstitute.org\/policy\/positions\/short-termism\u0022\u003EShort-term profits\u003C\/a\u003E cause long-term disaster for the fishery and the businesses that depend on it.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe metaphor for oil and gas is clear: As fossil fuels continue to be extracted and burned, they release \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.ipcc.ch\/report\/ar6\/wg1\/resources\/climate-change-in-data\/\u0022\u003Eplanet-warming emissions\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/overshoot.footprintnetwork.org\u0022\u003Eharming the planet as a whole\u003C\/a\u003E. They also pose substantial \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/dx.doi.org\/10.3390\/infrastructures4040074\u0022\u003Ebusiness risks to the oil and gas industry itself\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYet students in a recent class showed me that a more collective way of thinking may be possible. Teams voluntarily reduced their fishing levels to preserve long-term business and environmental sustainability, and they even cooperated with their competitors. They did so without in-game regulatory threats, shareholder or customer complaints, or lawsuits.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETheir shared understanding that the future of their own fishing companies was at stake makes me hopeful that this type of leadership may take hold in real companies and the energy system as a whole. But the question remains about how fast that change can happen, amid the accelerating global demand for more energy along with the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.un.org\/en\/climatechange\/science\/causes-effects-climate-change\u0022\u003Eincreasing urgency and severity of climate change and its effects\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C!-- Below is The Conversation\u0027s page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --\u003E\u003Cimg style=\u0022border-color:!important;border-style:none;box-shadow:none !important;margin:0 !important;max-height:1px !important;max-width:1px !important;min-height:1px !important;min-width:1px !important;opacity:0 !important;outline:none !important;padding:0 !important;\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/counter.theconversation.com\/content\/260855\/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic\u0022 alt=\u0022The Conversation\u0022 width=\u00221\u0022 height=\u00221\u0022 referrerpolicy=\u0022no-referrer-when-downgrade\u0022\u003E\u003C!-- End of code. If you don\u0027t see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https:\/\/theconversation.com\/republishing-guidelines --\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis article is republished from \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThe Conversation\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E under a Creative Commons license. Read the \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/why-do-big-oil-companies-invest-in-green-energy-260855\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003Eoriginal article\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"full_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EDespite the relatively modest scale of investment in clean energy by oil and gas companies so far, there are several business reasons oil companies would increase their investments in clean energy over time.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Despite the relatively modest scale of investment in clean energy by oil and gas companies so far, there are several business reasons oil companies would increase their investments in clean energy over time."}],"uid":"27469","created_gmt":"2025-09-17 16:20:15","changed_gmt":"2025-12-30 19:44:36","author":"Kristen Bailey","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-09-17T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-09-17T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678053":{"id":"678053","type":"image","title":"A flare burns natural gas at an oil well on Aug. 26, 2021, in Watford City, N.D. ","body":"\u003Cp\u003EA flare burns natural gas at an oil well on Aug. 26, 2021, in Watford City, N.D. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/newsroom.ap.org\/detail\/BidenMethaneEmissions\/bd59009031284cb2be9e346df5201077\/photo\u0022\u003EAP Photo\/Matthew Brown\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1758126088","gmt_created":"2025-09-17 16:21:28","changed":"1758126088","gmt_changed":"2025-09-17 16:21:28","alt":"A flare burns natural gas at an oil well on Aug. 26, 2021, in Watford City, N.D. ","file":{"fid":"262031","name":"file-20250826-75-dih7vn.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/17\/file-20250826-75-dih7vn.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/17\/file-20250826-75-dih7vn.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":203831,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/17\/file-20250826-75-dih7vn.jpg?itok=rUJ21cdd"}}},"media_ids":["678053"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/theconversation.com\/why-do-big-oil-companies-invest-in-green-energy-260855","title":"Read This Article on The Conversation"}],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"479","name":"Green Buzz"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71911","name":"Earth and Environment"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Ch5\u003EAuthor:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/profiles\/michael-oxman-2431432\u0022\u003EMichael Oxman\u003C\/a\u003E, Professor of the Practice of Sustainable Business, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/institutions\/georgia-institute-of-technology-1310\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EGeorgia Institute of Technology\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch5\u003EMedia Contact:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShelley Wunder-Smith\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:shelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003Eshelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"685297":{"#nid":"685297","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Decades in the Making: Seeing the Full Impact From Air Pollution Reductions","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EResearchers at Georgia Tech have analyzed the seasonal differences of sulfate aerosols \u2014 a major pollutant in the United States \u2014 to examine the long-term impact from sulfur dioxide (SO\u2082) emission reductions since the enactment of the Clean Air Act amendments in 1990.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/eas.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences\u003C\/a\u003E Professor \u003Cstrong\u003EYuhang Wang\u003C\/strong\u003E and his team studied the factors affecting SO\u2082\u0026nbsp;and sulfate concentrations during winter and summer in the \u201cRust Belt\u201d \u2014 from New York through the Midwest \u2014 and the Southeast regions of the U.S. over two decades (2004 to 2023). Supported by the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nsf.gov\/\u0022\u003ENational Science Foundation\u003C\/a\u003E and Georgia Tech\u2019s\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/sustainability\u0022\u003EBrook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems\u003C\/a\u003E, the team also developed an ensemble machine learning approach to project seasonal patterns until 2050.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cPower plants, particularly those burning coal and oil, are a major source of SO\u2082 emissions in these regions,\u201d says Wang, who co-authored, with Ph.D. students \u003Cstrong\u003EFanghe Zhao\u003C\/strong\u003E and \u003Cstrong\u003EShengjun Xi\u003C\/strong\u003E, the study recently published in\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/pubs.acs.org\/doi\/full\/10.1021\/acs.estlett.5c00731\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EEnvironmental Science \u0026amp; Technology Letters\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESeasonal differences in atmospheric chemistry\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the U.S., the chemistry in the atmosphere varies among the seasons. During summer, solar radiation from ample sunlight activates oxidant reactions that produce hydrogen peroxide (H\u003Cem\u003E\u2082\u003C\/em\u003EO\u003Cem\u003E\u2082\u003C\/em\u003E) in the atmosphere. The supply of H\u003Cem\u003E\u2082\u003C\/em\u003EO\u003Cem\u003E\u2082\u003C\/em\u003E is determined by the amount of emitted air pollution, and once in the atmosphere, H\u003Cem\u003E\u2082\u003C\/em\u003EO\u003Cem\u003E\u2082\u003C\/em\u003E can oxidize SO\u2082\u0026nbsp;quickly into sulfate aerosols in the aqueous phase.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESulfate aerosols from the oxidation of SO\u2082 contribute to the formation of particulate matter less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter (PM2.5). Particulate sulfate poses significant environmental and public health risks, including air pollution, acid rain, and circulatory and respiratory issues.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe supply of H\u003Cem\u003E\u2082\u003C\/em\u003EO\u003Cem\u003E\u2082\u003C\/em\u003E\u0026nbsp;in summer is eight times greater than in winter \u2014 a huge difference \u2014 which means sulfate concentrations are generally higher in summer and a reduction in SO\u2082 emissions leads to a proportional decrease in sulfate concentrations,\u201d explains Wang. \u201cWhen SO\u2082 emissions exceed the available supply of H\u003Cem\u003E\u2082\u003C\/em\u003EO\u003Cem\u003E\u2082\u003C\/em\u003E in winter, the reduction in sulfate concentrations can be much smaller because of a \u2018chemical damping\u2019 effect that causes sulfate levels to decline more slowly than SO\u2082 emissions.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENarrowing the disparities between seasonal sulfate levels\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe study\u2019s two-decade observations revealed distinct patterns in the reduction of SO\u2082\u0026nbsp;emissions and sulfate concentrations during winter and summer.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile SO\u2082\u0026nbsp;emissions significantly decreased in both seasons\u00ad over time \u2014 primarily from the Clean Air Act and more power plants transitioning from coal to natural gas \u2014 the reduction of sulfate concentrations initially showed large seasonal differences. However, over the past decade, the disparity between winter and summer sulfate levels narrowed as SO\u2082\u0026nbsp;emissions decreased.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAccording to Wang, the seasonal disparity of sulfate was caused by changing chemical regimes in winter over time. Although the lower supply of H\u003Cem\u003E\u2082\u003C\/em\u003EO\u003Cem\u003E\u2082\u003C\/em\u003E remained stable in winter, SO\u2082\u0026nbsp;wintertime emissions were higher from 2004 to 2013, then dropped below the level of H\u003Cem\u003E\u2082\u003C\/em\u003EO\u003Cem\u003E\u2082\u003C\/em\u003E\u0026nbsp;after 2013 \u2014 reaching parity with the levels of reduced SO\u2082\u0026nbsp;emissions in the summer.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWhen you have this complexity of atmospheric chemistry, there is a non-linear effect in winter \u2014 as SO\u2082\u0026nbsp;emissions decreased, sulfate aerosol production efficiency increased until 2013, then flattened as of today. The reduction in sulfate aerosols initially lagged behind the decrease in SO\u2082 emissions but eventually caught up as a result of sustained air quality control efforts,\u201d says Wang. \u201cConversely, there is a simple, linear effect in summer \u2014 the more SO\u2082\u0026nbsp;emissions, the more sulfate aerosols in the atmosphere \u2014 and if you reduce one, the other is reduced by the same proportion.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDecades-long full impact\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFrom now until 2050, the researchers\u2019 machine learning projections indicate a continuing decrease of winter and summer sulfate levels, which are currently around 20 percent, as SO\u2082\u0026nbsp;emission controls achieve comparable efficacy across the seasons.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe\u2019re now seeing the full impact from the Clean Air Act,\u201d concludes Wang, \u201cand the nation\u2019s sustained effort in pollution reduction is key to improving air quality and health outcomes.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EGeorgia Tech researchers analyze seasonal differences of SO\u2082 and sulfate concentrations in the atmosphere over decades to determine the long-term impact of sustained air quality control efforts.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech researchers analyze seasonal differences of SO\u2082 and sulfate concentrations in the atmosphere over decades to determine the long-term impact of sustained air quality control efforts."}],"uid":"27465","created_gmt":"2025-09-25 21:44:42","changed_gmt":"2025-12-30 19:40:19","author":"Annette Filliat","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-09-26T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-09-26T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678151":{"id":"678151","type":"image","title":"NOAA Iridescent Clouds","body":"\u003Cp\u003EIridescent clouds before sunset \/ Source: NOAA\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1758842239","gmt_created":"2025-09-25 23:17:19","changed":"1758842239","gmt_changed":"2025-09-25 23:17:19","alt":"NOAA Iridescent Clouds","file":{"fid":"262138","name":"NOAA-North-Carolina-Clouds.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/25\/NOAA-North-Carolina-Clouds.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/25\/NOAA-North-Carolina-Clouds.png","mime":"image\/png","size":3019658,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/25\/NOAA-North-Carolina-Clouds.png?itok=aC8m6MF-"}},"678152":{"id":"678152","type":"image","title":"Yuhang Wang ","body":"\u003Cp\u003ESchool of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Professor Yuhang Wang and his team co-authored the study, \u201cChemically Induced Decline in Wintertime SO\u003Cem\u003E\u2082\u003C\/em\u003E\u0026nbsp;Emission Control Efficacy,\u201d which was published in \u003Cem\u003EEnvironmental Science \u0026amp; Technology Letters\u003C\/em\u003E.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1758842459","gmt_created":"2025-09-25 23:20:59","changed":"1758842459","gmt_changed":"2025-09-25 23:20:59","alt":"Yuhang Wang ","file":{"fid":"262139","name":"GT-CoS-Yuhang-Wang-Headshot.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/25\/GT-CoS-Yuhang-Wang-Headshot.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/25\/GT-CoS-Yuhang-Wang-Headshot.png","mime":"image\/png","size":6600933,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/25\/GT-CoS-Yuhang-Wang-Headshot.png?itok=Wga0XlvH"}},"678153":{"id":"678153","type":"image","title":"Fanghe Zhao","body":"\u003Cp\u003EPh.D. student Fanghe Zhao\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1758843155","gmt_created":"2025-09-25 23:32:35","changed":"1758843155","gmt_changed":"2025-09-25 23:32:35","alt":"Fanghe Zhao","file":{"fid":"262141","name":"GT-CoS-Fanghe-Zhao-Headshot.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/25\/GT-CoS-Fanghe-Zhao-Headshot_0.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/25\/GT-CoS-Fanghe-Zhao-Headshot_0.png","mime":"image\/png","size":10158591,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/25\/GT-CoS-Fanghe-Zhao-Headshot_0.png?itok=rmCNXJa_"}},"678154":{"id":"678154","type":"image","title":"Shengjun Xi","body":"\u003Cdiv\u003EPh.D. student Shengjun Xi\u003C\/div\u003E","created":"1758843283","gmt_created":"2025-09-25 23:34:43","changed":"1758843283","gmt_changed":"2025-09-25 23:34:43","alt":"Shengjun Xi","file":{"fid":"262142","name":"GT-CoS-Shengjun-Xi-Headshot.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/25\/GT-CoS-Shengjun-Xi-Headshot.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/25\/GT-CoS-Shengjun-Xi-Headshot.png","mime":"image\/png","size":3927326,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/25\/GT-CoS-Shengjun-Xi-Headshot.png?itok=ut8CDG5t"}}},"media_ids":["678151","678152","678153","678154"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/cos.gatech.edu\/news\/study-reveals-wintertime-formation-large-pollution-particles-chinas-skies","title":"Study Reveals Wintertime Formation of Large Pollution Particles in China\u2019s Skies"},{"url":"https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/everlasting-african-wildfires-fueled-aerosol-feedback","title":"Everlasting African Wildfires Fueled by Aerosol Feedback"}],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"192254","name":"cos-climate"},{"id":"194631","name":"cos-georgia"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71911","name":"Earth and Environment"},{"id":"71891","name":"Health and Medicine"},{"id":"71881","name":"Science and Technology"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:jess@cos.gatech.edu\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJess Hunt-Ralston\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EDirector of Communications\u003Cbr\u003ECollege of Sciences at Georgia Tech\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWriter: Annette Filliat\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEditor: Lindsay Vidal\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["jess@cos.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"685430":{"#nid":"685430","#data":{"type":"news","title":"The Future of Antarctic Ice: New Study Reveals the Mathematics of Meltwater Lakes","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EGeorgia Tech researchers have developed a mathematical formula to predict the size of lakes that form on melting ice sheets \u2014 discovering their depth and span are linked to the topography of the ice sheet itself.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EThe team leveraged physics, model simulations, and satellite imagery to develop simple mathematical equations that can easily be integrated into existing climate models. It\u2019s a first-of-it\u2019s-kind tool that is already improving climate models.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u201cMelt lakes play an important role in ice sheet stability, but previously, there were no constraints on what we would expect their maximum size to be in Antarctica,\u201d says study lead\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/eas.gatech.edu\/people\/grau-danielle-0\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDanielle Grau\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, a Ph.D. student in the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/eas.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences\u003C\/a\u003E. \u201cI was intrigued by the idea of quantifying how much of a role we could expect them to play in the future.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EThe paper, \u201c\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s41467-025-61798-8\u0022\u003EPredicting mean depth and area fraction of Antarctic supraglacial melt lakes with physics-based parameterizations\u003C\/a\u003E,\u201d was published in\u0026nbsp;\u003Cem\u003ENature Communications\u003C\/em\u003E. In addition to Grau, the research team includes School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Professor\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/eas.gatech.edu\/people\/robel-alexander\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlexander Robel\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, who is Grau\u2019s advisor, and\u0026nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EAzeez Hussain\u003C\/strong\u003E (PHYS 2025).\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003ETheir predictions show that the majority of these lakes will be less than a meter deep and span up to 40% of the ice sheet surface area.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u201cMany models don\u2019t include any data about lakes on the surface of ice sheets, while others simulate these melt lakes growing until the ice collapses,\u201d Robel says. \u201cOur results show that the reality is somewhere in between \u2014 and that the maximum size of these lakes can be predicted using these new equations. This gives us real, concrete numbers to use in climate models.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFrom summer project to satellite discovery\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EGrau\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003Efirst\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003Estarted working on the project as an undergraduate student when she applied for a\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/easreu.eas.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESummer Research Experiences for Undergraduates program\u003C\/a\u003E hosted by the School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EInspired by\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1002\/2016GL071378\u0022\u003Eterrestrial lake research\u003C\/a\u003E, Grau and Robel investigated the \u201cself-affinity\u201d of the Antarctic ice sheet \u2014 a property associated with surface roughness across various scales. For example, a landscape like Badlands National Park, with many rolling hills of a wide range of sizes, would have a different self-affinity than a flat prairie with three large volcanoes.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u201cA previous study had used this property to predict the size of terrestrial lakes and ponds, and we were curious if we could use a similar approach for supraglacial lakes in Antarctica,\u201d Grau says. \u201cEstablishing that the Antarctic ice sheet also has this property was the first step in pursuing this research in more depth.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe mathematics of melt\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EGrau continued the investigation as a Ph.D. student in Robel\u2019s lab. Together, they unraveled the physics of how meltwater moves across the ice surface, designing a \u2018glacier in a computer\u2019 that mimics meltwater accumulation and movement across various topographies.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u201cWe designed an algorithm and integrated it into a model that the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/iceclimate.eas.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EGT Ice \u0026amp; Climate Group\u003C\/a\u003E has used in the past,\u201d Grau says. \u201cFrom that, we were able to see how lakes would form on different surfaces across thousands of scenarios. This was the foundation for the mathematical equations I developed, which can predict the lake depth and lake surface area based on the self-affinity property.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003ETo check their results, Grau enlisted the help of Hussain \u2014 then an undergraduate in the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/physics.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Physics\u003C\/a\u003E \u2014 to examine satellite data from the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/landsat.gsfc.nasa.gov\/\u0022\u003ELandsat satellite program\u003C\/a\u003E (which captures detailed photography of the Earth\u2019s surface from space) to measure existing supraglacial lakes and surface topography.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u201cIt was exciting to see how our predictions lined up with what we were seeing in the satellite imagery,\u201d Robel explains. \u201cThis shows that our solution is a concrete avenue for climate models to realistically incorporate supraglacial lakes.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EGrau is already working to incorporate the team\u2019s equations into an atmospheric model used by NASA in addition to an ice sheet model developed by the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Dartmouth College.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u201cBy turning complicated models and satellite data into simple predictive equations, we\u2019re giving climate models a new lens to see the future,\u201d she says. \u201cIt\u2019s a small piece of the puzzle,\u0026nbsp; but one that helps us understand how ice sheets respond to a warming world.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EFunding: NASA Modeling, Analysis, and Prediction Program\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EDOI: \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41467-025-61798-8\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003Ehttps:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41467-025-61798-8\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ESimple equations are revealing how topography controls supraglacial lake size in Antarctica \u2014 and why it matters for climate predictions.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Simple equations are revealing how topography controls supraglacial lake size in Antarctica \u2014 and why it matters for climate predictions."}],"uid":"35599","created_gmt":"2025-10-01 16:43:29","changed_gmt":"2025-12-30 18:25:55","author":"sperrin6","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-10-01T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-10-01T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678235":{"id":"678235","type":"image","title":"A view of Greenland\u0027s ice sheet from the NASA\/USGS Landsat 8 satellite showing meltwater lakes on a glacier. (Credit: NASA)","body":"\u003Cp\u003EA view of Greenland\u0027s ice sheet from the NASA\/USGS Landsat 8 satellite showing meltwater lakes on a glacier. (Credit: NASA)\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1759337021","gmt_created":"2025-10-01 16:43:41","changed":"1759337021","gmt_changed":"2025-10-01 16:43:41","alt":"A view of Greenland\u0027s ice sheet from the NASA\/USGS Landsat 8 satellite showing meltwater lakes on a glacier. (Credit: NASA)","file":{"fid":"262231","name":"Supraglacial-Lake-1.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/01\/Supraglacial-Lake-1.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/01\/Supraglacial-Lake-1.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":440764,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/10\/01\/Supraglacial-Lake-1.jpg?itok=e9CGf1U-"}}},"media_ids":["678235"],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"}],"keywords":[{"id":"192254","name":"cos-climate"},{"id":"192252","name":"cos-planetary"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"193653","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWritten by \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto: sperrin6@gatech.edu\u0022\u003ESelena Langner\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686991":{"#nid":"686991","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Nuclear Waste: What It Is \u2014 and What It Isn\u2019t","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWhen people hear \u201cnuclear waste,\u201d they often imagine glowing green sludge leaking into the ground \u2014 a scene straight out of science fiction. The truth is far less dramatic and far more manageable. In fact, all the civilian nuclear waste produced by U.S. power plants so far could fit on a single football field stacked just 10 yards high. Managed under strict safety protocols, this byproduct of nuclear energy poses manageable risk compared to the billions of tons of greenhouse gases from fossil fuels. Today, researchers at Georgia Tech and around the world are working on safer reactor designs, advanced monitoring, and innovative recycling methods to turn nuclear waste into new opportunities \u2014 from clean energy to ultra-long-lasting batteries and even power for space missions.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/node\/44646\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERead more \u00bb\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWhen people hear \u201cnuclear waste,\u201d they often imagine glowing green sludge leaking into the ground \u2014 a scene straight out of science fiction. The truth is far less dramatic and far more manageable. In fact, all the civilian nuclear waste produced by U.S. power plants so far could fit on a single football field stacked just 10 yards high. Managed under strict safety protocols, this byproduct of nuclear energy poses manageable risk compared to the billions of tons of greenhouse gases from fossil fuels. Today, researchers at Georgia Tech and around the world are working on safer reactor designs, advanced monitoring, and innovative recycling methods to turn nuclear waste into new opportunities \u2014 from clean energy to ultra-long-lasting batteries and even power for space missions.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Nuclear waste can be managed safely with proper safety protocols. Researchers at Georgia Tech and around the world are working on safer reactor designs, advanced monitoring, and innovative recycling methods to turn nuclear waste into new opportunities \u2014 f"}],"uid":"27255","created_gmt":"2025-12-18 19:42:21","changed_gmt":"2025-12-30 15:01:11","author":"Josie Giles","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-12-18T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-12-18T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678901":{"id":"678901","type":"image","title":"1.-MarthaGroverTeam.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EMartha Grover, professor in the School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, with her research team. [Photo by Christopher McKenney]\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1767106727","gmt_created":"2025-12-30 14:58:47","changed":"1767106727","gmt_changed":"2025-12-30 14:58:47","alt":"Georgia Tech Professor Martha Grover with her research team","file":{"fid":"262994","name":"1.-MarthaGroverTeam.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/30\/1.-MarthaGroverTeam.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/30\/1.-MarthaGroverTeam.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":5334947,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/12\/30\/1.-MarthaGroverTeam.jpg?itok=hG_9ee7m"}}},"media_ids":["678901"],"groups":[{"id":"372221","name":"Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"193652","name":"Matter and Systems"},{"id":"39491","name":"Renewable Bioproducts"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EPriya Devarajan\u003C\/a\u003E || SEI Communications Program Manager\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686988":{"#nid":"686988","#data":{"type":"news","title":"RBI Releases 2025 Year End Report","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThank you to the entire RBI community for participating in a transformative 2025. \u0026nbsp;Please enjoy reviewing the accomplishments we made together. \u0026nbsp;We look forward to partnering with you in 2026.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/emma-assets.s3.amazonaws.com\/6csgb\/2321eb10fcabdecfd741b2b51777e4d9\/2025_RBI_Annual_Report_Updated.pdf\u0022\u003ERead the Report here.\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThank you to the entire RBI community for participating in a transformative 2025. \u0026nbsp;Please enjoy reviewing the accomplishments we made together. \u0026nbsp;We look forward to partnering with you in 2026.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Thank you to the entire RBI community for participating in a transformative 2025.  Please enjoy reviewing the accomplishments we made together.  We look forward to partnering with you in 2026."}],"uid":"36757","created_gmt":"2025-12-18 16:25:58","changed_gmt":"2025-12-19 17:01:45","author":"ychernet3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-12-18T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-12-18T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678893":{"id":"678893","type":"image","title":"Screenshot-2025-12-17-at-11.42.02-AM.png","body":null,"created":"1766075861","gmt_created":"2025-12-18 16:37:41","changed":"1766075861","gmt_changed":"2025-12-18 16:37:41","alt":"RBI Annual Report","file":{"fid":"262983","name":"Screenshot-2025-12-17-at-11.42.02-AM.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/18\/Screenshot-2025-12-17-at-11.42.02-AM_0.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/18\/Screenshot-2025-12-17-at-11.42.02-AM_0.png","mime":"image\/png","size":2911125,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/12\/18\/Screenshot-2025-12-17-at-11.42.02-AM_0.png?itok=W8jRMQbx"}}},"media_ids":["678893"],"groups":[{"id":"372221","name":"Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI)"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188020","name":"go-rbi"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39491","name":"Renewable Bioproducts"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686905":{"#nid":"686905","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Researchers Make Waves at the World\u2019s Largest Neuroscience Conference","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EImagine stepping into a space the size of multiple football fields \u2014 only instead of turf and goalposts, it\u2019s filled with science. Every inch is alive with posters, equipment demos, and researchers sharing the latest breakthroughs.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWelcome to the Society for Neuroscience (SfN) Conference, one of the largest scientific gatherings in the world, drawing more than 30,000 attendees to San Diego in November. According to \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/neuro.gatech.edu\/user\/1105\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EAnnabelle Singer\u003C\/a\u003E, it is \u003Cem\u003Ethe\u003C\/em\u003E place to be for neuroscientists. \u201cIf you want to know what is going on now in neuroscience, it is being talked about at SfN.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESinger is a McCamish Foundation Early Career Professor in the Wallace H. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/bme.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ECoulter Department of Biomedical Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E (BME) at Georgia Tech and Emory University. A frequent SfN attendee, she describes the meeting as \u201cDragon Con for neuroscience, with thousands of talks and posters going on simultaneously.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis year, Georgia Tech didn\u2019t just show up \u2014 it made a statement with more than \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/public.tableau.com\/views\/Neuroscience2025\/main?:showVizHome=no\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E60 presentations\u003C\/a\u003E, a major outreach award, and a spotlight press conference.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cSeeing Georgia Tech and INNS represented so strongly at SfN is exciting,\u201d says \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ece.gatech.edu\/directory\/christopher-john-rozell\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EChris Rozell\u003C\/a\u003E, executive director of Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/neuro.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EInstitute for Neuroscience, Neurotechnology, and Society\u003C\/a\u003E (INNS). \u201cIt reflects the incredible breadth of neuroscience and neurotechnology research happening across our campus and how our work is shaping conversations at the highest level.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EInside \u2018Neuroscience Dragon Con\u2019\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMany conferences center around structured lectures, but at SfN, posters are the heart. You might find a senior researcher presenting groundbreaking findings right next to a first-time attendee sharing early results. This diversity is what makes the experience so valuable, says Singer. \u201cTrainees get to talk directly with the scientist doing the work to get their questions answered, from wondering about future implications to clarifying technical details.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe scale of SfN can feel overwhelming, but for many, that\u2019s part of the excitement. \u201cThere are so many different posters from so many different fields. It\u2019s a lot to absorb, but it\u2019s all very interesting,\u201d said Benjamin Magondu, a biomedical engineering Ph.D. student presenting for the first time. \u201cI\u2019ve definitely learned at least 47 things by just walking 10 feet.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor students like Magondu, the experience is critical, says \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/biosciences.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EBiological Sciences\u003C\/a\u003E Assistant Professor \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/biosciences.gatech.edu\/people\/farzaneh-najafi\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EFarzaneh Najafi\u003C\/a\u003E. \u201cSfN has such a big scope, all the way from molecular to cognitive and computational systems. Especially for those deciding which direction of neuroscience they want to go into, it\u2019s invaluable.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat breadth also fosters connections across disciplines. \u201cConferences are usually pretty niche,\u201d noted Tina Franklin, a research scientist in BME. \u201cYou have your own field that you\u2019re really good at, but it\u2019s difficult to venture out and find new people who can help you figure out what comes next. This conference brings people from all different fields together with the common interest of neuroscience and brain research.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELeading the Charge\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s impact went beyond the conference floor. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/ming-fai-fong\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EMing-fai Fong\u003C\/a\u003E, an assistant professor in BME, received the prestigious Next Generation Award, one of SfN\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.sfn.org\/publications\/latest-news\/2025\/11\/03\/society-for-neuroscience-2025-education-and-outreach-awards\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Eeducation and outreach awards\u003C\/a\u003E. The honor recognizes members who make outstanding contributions to public communication and education about neuroscience.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cI\u2019m certainly very grateful to the Society for Neuroscience for recognizing these types of contributions,\u201d says Fong, who was recognized for her work supporting blind and visually impaired youth in Atlanta. \u201cRewarding outreach efforts reinforces my core belief that scientists and engineers can make an immediate impact on communities we care about through outreach. It\u2019s a great parallel avenue to making a positive impact through research.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBuilding on this recognition, Georgia Tech was in the spotlight during one of SfN\u2019s selective press conferences \u2014 a session on \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.the-scientist.com\/ai-tools-unravel-thoughts-actions-and-neuronal-makeup-73779\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Eartificial intelligence in neuroscience\u003C\/a\u003E moderated by Rozell, who is also the Julian T. Hightower Chair in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ece.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ESchool of Electrical and Computer Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDuring the SfN press event, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/med.emory.edu\/directory\/profile\/?u=TKESAR\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ETrisha Kesar,\u003C\/a\u003E an associate professor in BME and adjunct faculty in the School of Biological Sciences, presented her research using AI to improve gait rehabilitation. Her work was among just 40 abstracts selected from more than 10,000 submissions for this honor, and one of five abstracts selected for the AI in neuroscience press conference. The project is a collaboration with \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/bme.gatech.edu\/bio\/hyeokhyen-kwon\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EHyeok Kwon\u003C\/a\u003E, a Georgia Tech computer science alumnus and an assistant professor in BME.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIt\u2019s exciting to see Georgia Tech and Atlanta emerging as hubs for neuroscience innovation,\u201d said Kesar. \u201cBeing part of a press conference on AI in neuroscience shows how much our community is contributing to the future of brain research, and how collaboration across institutions can accelerate progress.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWith more than 60 presentations and recognition for neuroscience outreach and AI research, Georgia Tech demonstrated its growing impact at the 2025 Society for Neuroscience\u2019s annual meeting.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"With more than 60 presentations and recognition for neuroscience outreach and AI research, Georgia Tech demonstrated its growing impact at the 2025 Society for Neuroscience\u2019s annual meeting."}],"uid":"35575","created_gmt":"2025-12-16 16:25:18","changed_gmt":"2025-12-16 20:34:06","author":"adavidson38","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-12-16T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-12-16T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678854":{"id":"678854","type":"image","title":"1763342998142_viaSfN.jpeg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAffectionally called \u0022DragonCon for neuroscience,\u0022 the annual Society for Neuroscience meeting is one of the largest academic conferences in the world.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1765903757","gmt_created":"2025-12-16 16:49:17","changed":"1765903757","gmt_changed":"2025-12-16 16:49:17","alt":"Affectionally called \u0022DragonCon for neuroscience,\u0022 the annual Society for Neuroscience meeting is one of the largest academic conferences in the world.","file":{"fid":"262944","name":"1763342998142_viaSfN.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/16\/1763342998142_viaSfN.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/16\/1763342998142_viaSfN.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":161836,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/12\/16\/1763342998142_viaSfN.jpeg?itok=0fC9aJqn"}},"678856":{"id":"678856","type":"image","title":"IMG_6535-2.png","body":"\u003Cp\u003EBenjamin Magondu, a graduate student in biomedical engineering, presented at SfN for the first time this year.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1765903975","gmt_created":"2025-12-16 16:52:55","changed":"1765903975","gmt_changed":"2025-12-16 16:52:55","alt":"Benjamin Magondu, a graduate student in biomedical engineering, presented at SfN for the first time this year.","file":{"fid":"262946","name":"IMG_6535-2.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/16\/IMG_6535-2.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/16\/IMG_6535-2.png","mime":"image\/png","size":16053615,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/12\/16\/IMG_6535-2.png?itok=RqMzz6kC"}},"678855":{"id":"678855","type":"image","title":"IMG_6838.png","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWith hundreds of presentations happening simultaneously, the poster floor can be overwhelming at SfN \u2014 but for many, that\u0027s part of the draw.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1765903880","gmt_created":"2025-12-16 16:51:20","changed":"1765903880","gmt_changed":"2025-12-16 16:51:20","alt":"With hundreds of presentations happening simultaneously, the poster floor can be overwhelming at SfN \u2014 but for many, that\u0027s part of the draw.","file":{"fid":"262945","name":"IMG_6838.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/16\/IMG_6838.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/16\/IMG_6838.png","mime":"image\/png","size":10484632,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/12\/16\/IMG_6838.png?itok=5jvPd7_3"}},"678857":{"id":"678857","type":"image","title":"IMG_6748-2.png","body":"\u003Cp\u003ETrisha Kesar answers a question during the SfN press conference on AI in neuroscience, moderated by Chris Rozell.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1765904071","gmt_created":"2025-12-16 16:54:31","changed":"1765904071","gmt_changed":"2025-12-16 16:54:31","alt":"Trisha Kesar answers a question during the SfN press conference on AI in neuroscience, moderated by Chris Rozell.","file":{"fid":"262947","name":"IMG_6748-2.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/16\/IMG_6748-2.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/16\/IMG_6748-2.png","mime":"image\/png","size":10935175,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/12\/16\/IMG_6748-2.png?itok=dFEAz4Je"}}},"media_ids":["678854","678856","678855","678857"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/neuro.gatech.edu\/georgia-tech-uses-computing-and-engineering-methods-shift-neuroscience-paradigms","title":"Georgia Tech Uses Computing and Engineering Methods to Shift Neuroscience Paradigms"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.the-scientist.com\/ai-tools-unravel-thoughts-actions-and-neuronal-makeup-73779","title":"Inside the SfN Press Conference: AI Tools Unravel Thoughts, Actions, and Neuronal Makeup"},{"url":"https:\/\/neuro.gatech.edu\/head-toe-georgia-tech-researchers-treat-entire-human-body-through-neuroscience-research","title":"Head to Toe: Georgia Tech Researchers Treat the Entire Human Body Through Neuroscience Research"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/202927865@N06\/albums\/72177720330951882\/","title":"Georgia Tech at SfN in Photos"}],"groups":[{"id":"1278","name":"College of Sciences"},{"id":"66220","name":"Neuro"},{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"1275","name":"School of Biological Sciences"},{"id":"443951","name":"School of Psychology"}],"categories":[{"id":"194606","name":"Artificial Intelligence"},{"id":"138","name":"Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics"},{"id":"153","name":"Computer Science\/Information Technology and Security"},{"id":"146","name":"Life Sciences and Biology"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"172970","name":"go-neuro"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"},{"id":"193656","name":"Neuro Next Initiative"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWriter and media contact:\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:audra.davidson@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EAudra Davidson\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EResearch Communications Manager\u003Cbr\u003EInstitute for Neuroscience, Neurotechnology, and Society (INNS)\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPresenter Dashboard:\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ECreated by \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:jpreston7@gatech.edu\u0022\u003EJoshua Preston\u003C\/a\u003E, Communications Manager, College of Computing\u003Cbr\u003EData collection by Audra Davidson, Hunter Ashcraft\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["audra.davidson@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686876":{"#nid":"686876","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Manufacturing Consortium Helps Industry Close the Finish Gap","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFrom fighter jets to medical devices, today\u2019s most advanced machines depend on parts as intricate as their missions. These components aren\u2019t just geometrically complex \u2014 they\u2019re made from specialized metals engineered to withstand extreme heat, friction, and wear. But that strength comes with a challenge. How do you shape metals tough enough to survive the heat of a jet engine?\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne solution is to start with a more moldable form of these super-metals: powder. In a specialized form of additive manufacturing (like 3D printing), manufacturers start with fine metal powders and fuse them, layer by layer, using focused energy. Known as powder bed fusion (PBF), this method enables highly complex shapes and reduces the amount of finishing work needed. Still, when a micron of extra material can make or break the final product, even near-perfect parts require precise finishing touches.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe introduction of new, exotic materials produced through additive manufacturing has brought unique challenges, especially for applications in space and missile systems,\u201d says David Antonuccio, business development director at \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.halocarbon.com\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EHalocarbon\u003C\/a\u003E, a Georgia-based company producing advanced chemical solutions used in manufacturing and other fields. \u201cWhile these materials offer distinct properties, they are notoriously difficult to machine.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat\u2019s where the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/manufacturing.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EGeorgia Tech Manufacturing Institute\u003C\/a\u003E (GTMI) comes in. Through its Manufacturing 4.0 Consortium, GTMI connects industry manufacturers like Halocarbon with researchers and innovators to tackle real \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S0007850625000319?via%3Dihub\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Eproduction challenges\u003C\/a\u003E like this. Membership includes access to GTMI\u2019s Advanced Manufacturing Pilot Facility (AMPF), where companies can test ideas and collaborate on new solutions.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHalocarbon recently teamed up with \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/freemelt.com\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EFreemelt\u003C\/a\u003E, a leader in producing PBF systems and a fellow consortium member, to address this bottleneck. Their goal: to determine whether Halocarbon\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.halocarbon.com\/machining-mission-critical-metals-the-halocarbon-advantage-in-aerospace-alloys\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Especialized metalworking fluids\u003C\/a\u003E could enhance the finishing process for PBF-manufactured parts made from tungsten and molybdenum, two high-temperature, hard-to-machine metals.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe future of manufacturing depends on how well we integrate talent, technology, and collaboration,\u201d says \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/manufacturing.gatech.edu\/people\/steven-ferguson\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ESteven Ferguson\u003C\/a\u003E, interim director of Research Operations at GTMI and managing director of the consortium. \u201cBy bringing companies together around shared challenges, we\u2019re closing critical gaps and strengthening the nation\u2019s advanced manufacturing capability.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESolving the Post-Processing Bottleneck\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEven with advanced methods like electron beam powder bed fusion (E-PBF), which uses an electron beam to fuse metal powders inside a vacuum chamber, finishing remains a critical hurdle. \u201cSurface finish in powder bed fusion is fundamentally tied to the particle size of the metal powder,\u201d says Ian Crawford, a materials and application engineer at Freemelt. \u201cPost-processing will almost always be part of the equation for high-performance components.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn traditional machining, coolants and cutting fluids used in these finishing steps are often overlooked, and the methods haven\u2019t changed much in decades. Halocarbon\u2019s metalworking fluid aims to bring these fluids into a new era, using innovative polymer chemistry to extend tool life, improve surface quality, and boost efficiency when machining these challenging alloys.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe two companies initiated their joint project during their free AMPF equipment use time, which comes with the full level of consortium membership. From there, GTMI designed and executed controlled studies comparing the use of Halocarbon\u2019s fluids to two standard finishing methods, dry machining and EDM-based finishing. The results showed a 6% improvement in side milling and a 26% improvement in end milling versus dry machining, with even greater gains over EDM. These improvements translate into higher-quality parts, tighter specifications, lower scrap rates, extended tool life, and reduced downstream costs \u2014 exactly what aerospace and defense suppliers need to meet stringent requirements. \u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe findings were shared at the 2025 National Space \u0026amp; Missile Materials Symposium, reinforcing the value of industry-academic collaboration.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIndustry keeps pushing materials to handle more heat and stress, but that makes post-processing harder,\u201d says \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/manufacturing.gatech.edu\/people\/matthew-carroll\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EMatt Carroll\u003C\/a\u003E, one of the GTMI researchers on the project. \u201cBy bringing equipment makers and chemistry innovators into the same experiment, we were able to prove where the gains really are and give manufacturers data they can act on.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cNo single manufacturing method solves every challenge,\u201d says Crawford. \u201cTo achieve the performance and cost targets that aerospace and defense applications demand, we need to bring together the right combination of technologies, and collaborations like this show what\u0027s possible when we do.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ECollaborative research at GTMI is helping manufacturers overcome critical challenges in finishing advanced materials for aerospace and defense applications.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Collaborative research at GTMI is helping manufacturers overcome critical challenges in finishing advanced materials for aerospace and defense applications."}],"uid":"35575","created_gmt":"2025-12-11 18:59:54","changed_gmt":"2025-12-15 14:39:11","author":"adavidson38","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-12-15T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-12-15T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678830":{"id":"678830","type":"image","title":"52029942294_e335c3c0ec_b.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAdvanced manufacturing methods like E-BPF enable the production of parts with complex geometries that traditional machining can\u0027t achieve, like those seen here at GTMI\u0027s Advanced Manufacturing Pilot Facility. (Photo by Georgia Tech)\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1765479873","gmt_created":"2025-12-11 19:04:33","changed":"1765479873","gmt_changed":"2025-12-11 19:04:33","alt":"Advanced manufacturing methods like E-BPF enable the production of parts with complex geometries that traditional machining can\u0027t achieve, like those seen here at GTMI\u0027s Advanced Manufacturing Pilot Facility.","file":{"fid":"262918","name":"52029942294_e335c3c0ec_b.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/11\/52029942294_e335c3c0ec_b.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/11\/52029942294_e335c3c0ec_b.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":94216,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/12\/11\/52029942294_e335c3c0ec_b.jpg?itok=4l_JPc9m"}},"678829":{"id":"678829","type":"image","title":"finishing-machining-halocarbon.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EHigh-performance parts used in aerospace and defense systems need to be precise and durable. Collaborative research at the Georgia Tech Manufacturing Institute teamed is working to improve the finishing processes for hard to machine metals like tungsten. (Photo via Halocarbon)\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1765479614","gmt_created":"2025-12-11 19:00:14","changed":"1765479614","gmt_changed":"2025-12-11 19:00:14","alt":"High-performance parts used in aerospace and defense systems need to be precise and durable. Collaborative research at the Georgia Tech Manufacturing Institute teamed is working to improve the finishing processes for hard to machine metals like tungsten.","file":{"fid":"262917","name":"finishing-machining-halocarbon.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/11\/finishing-machining-halocarbon.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/11\/finishing-machining-halocarbon.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":20940,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/12\/11\/finishing-machining-halocarbon.jpg?itok=41BlRrZ7"}}},"media_ids":["678830","678829"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/manufacturing.gatech.edu\/engage\/manufacturing-40-consortium","title":"More about GTMI\u0027s Manufacturing 4.0 Consortium"},{"url":"https:\/\/manufacturing.gatech.edu","title":"Georgia Tech Manufacturing Institute"}],"groups":[{"id":"155831","name":"Georgia Tech Manufacturing Institute (GTMI)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"194609","name":"Industry"},{"id":"194685","name":"Manufacturing"},{"id":"147","name":"Military Technology"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"194611","name":"State Impact"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186857","name":"go-gtmi"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39461","name":"Manufacturing, Trade, and Logistics"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWriter: Audra Davidson\u003Cbr\u003EResearch Communications Program Manager\u003Cbr\u003EGeorgia Tech Manufacturing Institute\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EContact: \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:bvogel30@gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBelinda Vogel\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EResearch Engagement Manager\u003Cbr\u003EGeorgia Tech Manufacturing Institute\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["bvogel30@gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"685663":{"#nid":"685663","#data":{"type":"news","title":"New Method Uses Collisions to Break Down Plastic for Sustainable Recycling","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile plastics help enable modern standards of living, their accumulation in landfills and the overall environment continues to grow as a global concern.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPolyethylene terephthalate (PET) is one of the world\u2019s most widely used plastics, with tens of millions of tons produced annually in the production of bottles, food packaging, and clothing fibers. The durability that makes PET so useful also means that it is more difficult to recycle efficiently.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow, researchers have developed a method to break down PET using mechanical forces instead of heat or harsh chemicals. Published in the journal \u003Cem\u003EChem\u003C\/em\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/pii\/S2451929425003456\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Etheir findings\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E demonstrate how a \u201cmechanochemical\u201d method \u2014 chemical reactions driven by mechanical forces such as collisions \u2014 can rapidly convert PET back into its basic building blocks, opening a path toward faster, cleaner recycling.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELed by postdoctoral researcher Kinga Go\u0142\u0105bek and Professor Carsten Sievers of Georgia Tech\u2019s School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, the research team hit solid pieces of PET with metal balls with the same force they would experience in a machine called a ball mill. This can make the PET react with other solid chemicals such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH), generating enough energy to break the plastic\u2019s chemical bonds at room temperature, without the need for hazardous solvents.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe\u2019re showing that mechanical impacts can help decompose plastics into their original molecules in a controllable and efficient way,\u201d \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sievers.chbe.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESievers\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E said. \u201cThis could transform the recycling of plastics into a more sustainable process.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMapping the Impact\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn demonstrating the process, the researchers used controlled single-impact experiments along with advanced computer simulations to map how energy from collisions distributes across the plastic and triggers chemical and structural transformations.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese experiments showed changes in structure and chemistry of PET in tiny zones that experience different pressures and heat. By mapping these transformations, the team gained new insights into how mechanical energy can trigger rapid, efficient chemical reactions.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThis understanding could help engineers design industrial-scale recycling systems that are faster, cleaner, and more energy-efficient,\u201d Go\u0142\u0105bek said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBreaking Down Plastic\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEach collision created a tiny crater, with the center absorbing the most energy. In this zone, the plastic stretched, cracked, and even softened slightly, creating ideal conditions for chemical reactions with sodium hydroxide.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHigh-resolution imaging and spectroscopy revealed that the normally ordered polymer chains became disordered in the crater center, while some chains broke into smaller fragments, increasing the surface area exposed to the reactant. Even without sodium hydroxide, mechanical impact alone caused minor chain breaking, showing that mechanical force itself can trigger chemical change.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe study also showed the importance of the amount of energy delivered by each impact. Low-energy collisions only slightly disturb PET, but stronger impacts cause cracks and plastic deformation, exposing new surfaces that can react with sodium hydroxide for rapid chemical breakdown.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cUnderstanding this energy threshold allows engineers to optimize mechanochemical recycling, maximizing efficiency while minimizing unnecessary energy use,\u201d Sievers explained.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EClosing the Loop on Plastic Waste\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese findings point toward a future where plastics can be fully recycled back into their original building blocks, rather than being downcycled or discarded. By harnessing mechanical energy instead of heat or harsh chemicals, recycling could become faster, cleaner, and more energy-efficient.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThis approach could help close the loop on plastic waste,\u201d Sievers said. \u201cWe could imagine recycling systems where everyday plastics are processed mechanochemically, giving waste new life repeatedly and reducing environmental impact.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe team now plans to test real-world waste streams and explore whether similar methods can work for other difficult-to-recycle plastics, bringing mechanochemical recycling closer to industrial use.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWith millions of tons of PET produced every year, improving recycling efficiency could significantly reduce plastic pollution and help protect ecosystems worldwide,\u201d Go\u0142\u0105bek said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECITATION: Kinga Go\u0142\u0105bek, Yuchen Chang, Lauren R. Mellinger, Mariana V. Rodrigues, Cau\u00ea de Souza Coutinho Nogueira, Fabio B. Passos, Yutao Xing, Aline Ribeiro Passos, Mohammed H. Saffarini, Austin B. Isner, David S. Sholl, Carsten Sievers, \u201c\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/pii\/S2451929425003456\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESpatially-resolved reaction environments in mechanochemical upcycling of polymers\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E,\u201d \u003Cem\u003EChem\u003C\/em\u003E, 2025.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EResearchers have developed a method to break down polyethylene terephthalate, one of the world\u2019s most widely used plastics, using mechanical forces instead of heat or harsh chemicals. Published in the journal \u003Cem\u003EChem\u003C\/em\u003E, their findings demonstrate how a \u201cmechanochemical\u201d method \u2014 chemical reactions driven by mechanical forces such as collisions \u2014 can rapidly convert PET back into its basic building blocks, opening a path toward faster, cleaner recycling.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Researchers have developed a method to break down PET, one of the world\u2019s most widely used plastics, for sustainable recycling using mechanical forces instead of heat or harsh chemicals."}],"uid":"27271","created_gmt":"2025-10-10 16:09:50","changed_gmt":"2025-12-10 20:34:48","author":"Brad Dixon","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-10-10T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-10-10T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678329":{"id":"678329","type":"image","title":"sieversballmachine.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThe high impact between the metal balls in a ball mill reactor and the polymer surface is suffi\u0002cient to momentarily liquefy the polymer and facilitate chemical reactions.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1760112196","gmt_created":"2025-10-10 16:03:16","changed":"1760112196","gmt_changed":"2025-10-10 16:03:16","alt":"The high impact between the metal balls in a ball mill reactor and the polymer surface is suffi\u0002cient to momentarily liquefy the polymer and facilitate chemical reactions.","file":{"fid":"262342","name":"sieversballmachine.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/10\/sieversballmachine.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/10\/sieversballmachine.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":240481,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/10\/10\/sieversballmachine.jpg?itok=WPkvqn7-"}},"678330":{"id":"678330","type":"image","title":"Kinga-Golabek.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EKinga Go\u0142\u0105bek\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1760112262","gmt_created":"2025-10-10 16:04:22","changed":"1760112262","gmt_changed":"2025-10-10 16:04:22","alt":"Kinga Golabek","file":{"fid":"262343","name":"Kinga-Golabek.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/10\/Kinga-Golabek.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/10\/Kinga-Golabek.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":103075,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/10\/10\/Kinga-Golabek.jpg?itok=ZljPVPOR"}},"678331":{"id":"678331","type":"image","title":"sievers2023webcrop.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EProf. Carsten Sievers\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1760116175","gmt_created":"2025-10-10 17:09:35","changed":"1760116175","gmt_changed":"2025-10-10 17:09:35","alt":"Professor Carsten Sievers","file":{"fid":"262347","name":"sievers2023webcrop.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/10\/sievers2023webcrop.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/10\/sievers2023webcrop.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":116072,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/10\/10\/sievers2023webcrop.jpg?itok=QeQj0eFu"}}},"media_ids":["678329","678330","678331"],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"5607","name":"chemical recycling"},{"id":"14536","name":"plastic"},{"id":"194823","name":"plastic recycling"},{"id":"171925","name":"mechanochemistry"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71911","name":"Earth and Environment"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EBrad Dixon, \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:braddixon@gatech.edu\u0022\u003Ebraddixon@gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["braddixon@gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"685218":{"#nid":"685218","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Breathtaking Breakthrough: Lung-on-a-Chip Defends Itself ","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EOn a clear polymer chip, soft and pliable like a gummy bear, a microscopic lung comes alive \u2014 expanding, circulating, and, for the first time, protecting itself like a living organ.\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EFor \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/ankur-singh\u0022\u003EAnkur Singh,\u003C\/a\u003E director of Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/immunoengineering.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ECenter for Immunoengineering\u003C\/a\u003E, watching immune cells rush through the chip took his breath away. Singh co-directed the study with longtime collaborator \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/engineering.vanderbilt.edu\/bio\/?pid=krishnendu-roy\u0022\u003EKrishnendu \u201cKrish\u201d Roy\u003C\/a\u003E, former Regents Professor and director of the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cellmanufacturingusa.org\/\u0022\u003ENSF Center for Cell Manufacturing Technologies\u003C\/a\u003E at Tech and now the Bruce and Bridgitt Evans dean of engineering and University Distinguished Professor at Vanderbilt University. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/bioengineering.gatech.edu\/user\/rachel-ringquist\u0022\u003ERachel Ringquist\u003C\/a\u003E, Roy\u2019s graduate student, and now a postdoctoral fellow with Singh, led the work as part of her doctoral dissertation.\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cThat was the \u2018wow\u2019 moment,\u201d Singh said. \u201cIt was the first time we felt we had something close to a real human lung.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELung-on-a-chip platforms provide researchers a window into organ behavior. They are about the size of a postage stamp, etched with tiny channels and lined with living human cells. Roy and Singh\u2019s innovation was adding a working immune system \u2014 the missing piece that turns a chip into a true model of how the lung fights disease.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow, researchers can watch how lungs respond to threats, how inflammation spreads, and how healing begins.\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch4\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe Human Stakes\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h4\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor millions of people struggling with lung disease, everyday life can feel nearly impossible, whether it\u2019s climbing stairs, carrying groceries, or even laughing too hard. Doctors and scientists have attempted for decades to unlock what really happens inside fragile lungs.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022This unique lung-on-a-chip model opens new, preclinical pathways of discovery that will allow researchers to better understand the interplay of immune responses to severe viral infections and evaluate critical antiviral treatments,\u201d said Roy.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor Singh, the Carl Ring Family Professor in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EGeorge W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E with a joint appointment in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/bme.gatech.edu\/bme\/\u0022\u003EWallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E, this research is deeply personal. He lost an uncle when an infection overwhelmed his cancer-weakened immune system.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThat experience stays with you,\u201d Singh reflected. \u201cIt made me want to build systems that could predict and prevent outcomes like that, so fewer families go through what mine did. I think about my uncle all the time. If work like this means fewer families lose someone they love, then it\u2019s worth everything.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat motivation pushed his team to reimagine what a lung-on-a-chip could do, setting the stage for the breakthroughs that followed.\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch4\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhen the Lung Fought Back\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h4\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe turning point came when Roy\u2019s and Singh\u2019s team peered through a microscope and saw something no one had ever witnessed on a chip: blood and immune cells coursing through tiny vessel-like structures, behaving just as they do in a living lung.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor years, researchers had struggled to add immunity to organ-on-a-chip systems. Immune cells often died quickly or failed to circulate and interact with tissue the way they do in people. the team solved that problem, creating a chip where immune cells could survive and coordinate a defense.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIt was an amazing breakthrough moment,\u201d Singh said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe true test came when the team introduced a severe influenza virus infection. The lung mounted an immune response that closely mirrored what doctors see in patients. Immune cells rushed to the site of infection, inflammation spread through tissue, and defenses activated in response.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThat was when we realized this wasn\u2019t just a model,\u201d Singh said. \u201cIt was capturing the real biology of disease.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESingh and Roy\u2019s research is published in the journal \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s41551-025-01491-9\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003ENature Biomedical Engineering\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch4\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA More Human Approach\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h4\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor decades, lung research has relied on animal models. But mice don\u2019t get asthma like children. Their bodies don\u2019t mount the same defenses.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cFive mice in a cage may respond the same way, but five humans won\u2019t,\u201d Singh explained. \u201cOur chip can reflect that difference. That\u2019s what makes it more accurate, and why it could dramatically reduce the need for animal models.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EKrish Roy emphasized its potential.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe Food and Drug Administration\u2019s strategic vision on reducing animal testing and developing predictive non-animal models aligns perfectly with our work. This device goes further than ever before in modeling human severe influenza and providing unprecedented insights into the complex lung immune response,\u201d he said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch4\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFighting More Than the Flu\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h4\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat began with influenza now expands to a wider range of diseases. Roy and Singh believes the platform can be used to study asthma, cystic fibrosis, lung cancer, and tuberculosis. The researchers are also working to integrate immune organs, showing how the lung coordinates with the body\u2019s defenses.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe long-term vision is personalized medicine: chips built from a patient\u2019s own cells to predict which therapy will work best. Scaling, clinical validation, and regulatory approval will take years, but Singh is undeterred.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cImagine knowing which treatment will help you before you ever take it,\u201d Singh said. \u201cThat\u2019s where we\u2019re headed.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhere we\u2019re headed, the future doesn\u2019t wait for illness. Instead, it anticipates it, intercepts it, and rewrites the outcome.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EGeorgia Tech postdoctoral researcher Rachel Ringquist was the first author leading the study.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis research was supported by Wellcome Leap, with additional funding from the National Institutes of Health, Carl Ring Family Endowment, and the Marcus Foundation.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ERingquist, R., Bhatia, E., Chatterjee, P.\u0026nbsp;\u003Cem\u003Eet al.\u003C\/em\u003E\u0026nbsp;An immune-competent lung-on-a-chip for modelling the human severe influenza infection response.\u0026nbsp;\u003Cem\u003ENature Biomedical Engineering,\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/em\u003ESeptember 2025 Vol.9 No.9\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDOI:\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s41551-025-01491-9#citeas\u0022\u003Ehttps:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41551-025-01491-9\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech and Vanderbilt researchers have developed the first lung-on-a-chip with a functioning immune system, a breakthrough published in \u003Cem\u003ENature Biomedical Engineering\u003C\/em\u003E. Led by Ankur Singh and Krishnendu \u201cKrish\u201d Roy, the team created a postage stamp-sized device where blood and immune cells circulate, fight infection, and heal, just as they would in a living lung. The advance not only provides unprecedented insight into diseases like influenza, asthma, and cancer but also offers a path toward reducing animal testing. Long-term, the technology could enable personalized medicine, with chips built from patients\u2019 own cells to predict which therapies will work best.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech and Vanderbilt researchers have built the first lung-on-a-chip with a working immune system, a breakthrough with the potential to reshape how we study disease, move beyond animal testing, and administer lifesaving therapies."}],"uid":"36410","created_gmt":"2025-09-24 15:20:56","changed_gmt":"2025-12-10 16:49:57","author":"mazriel3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-09-24T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-09-24T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678118":{"id":"678118","type":"image","title":"Lung-on-a-Chip With Immune System","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAnkur Singh and Rachel Ringquist point to the microscopic lung-on-a-chip that has a built-in immune system.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1758725634","gmt_created":"2025-09-24 14:53:54","changed":"1758726945","gmt_changed":"2025-09-24 15:15:45","alt":"Researchers show off a lung-on-a-chip that has an immune system. Long term, this technology could lead to highly personalized medicine","file":{"fid":"262102","name":"20250911_IBB_ChipLung-01.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/24\/20250911_IBB_ChipLung-01.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/24\/20250911_IBB_ChipLung-01.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":13303952,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/24\/20250911_IBB_ChipLung-01.jpg?itok=oU9qxbUs"}}},"media_ids":["678118"],"groups":[{"id":"660369","name":"Matter and Systems"},{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"138","name":"Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"1613","name":"Biomedical Engieering"},{"id":"98751","name":"College of Engineering; George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"},{"id":"193652","name":"Matter and Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71891","name":"Health and Medicine"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EMichelle Azriel Sr. Writer-Editor\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["mazriel3@gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"649816":{"#nid":"649816","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Goldia Mae Burchfield Memorial Scholarship to Support Undergrads","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Goldia Mae Burchfield Memorial Scholarship is open for contributions again this year. It was established last year to support students in pursuit of their undergraduate degree.\u0026nbsp;Ms. Burchfield, mother to Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems Financial Manager, Gay Burchfield, died of COVID-19 on June 8th, 2020, at the age of 80, in Starkville, Mississippi. She lived a life of service to those in her community, with a particular emphasis on education.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Burchfield family selected sophomore Catherine Shamanski in the College of Psychology to receive a $200 scholarship. Shamanski will serve as a Team Leader in a section of the GT-1000 class, helping incoming first year students to find their footing on campus.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMs. Goldia was years ahead of her time.\u0026nbsp;During the segregation era, her family moved from rural Mississippi to a larger town where she could pursue her high school education, which she completed in 1958. She wanted to join the military only to discover that women of color were not eligible to serve. She worked as a part-time custodian in a local bank for 35 years, as well as numerous odd jobs to care for her family and her community.\u0026nbsp;She and her husband had several small businesses in their hometown, one of which was \u201cBurchfield Recreation,\u201d aka \u201cThe Pool Hall.\u201d The pool hall also served as an ad-hoc after-school care for many families with working parents. Ms. Goldia provided meals, advice, and discipline, sometimes working extra odd jobs to finance those additional expenses. She would also put together care packages with stipends for the young people of her community who were college bound. \u0026nbsp;If asked what her greatest achievements were, she would say that she was a great mom, provided free meals to many, greeted everyone with a heartfelt smile, and genuinely cared for everyone she encountered.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDonations by check should be made payable to the Georgia Tech Foundation, Inc., with \u0022Goldia Mae Burchfield Memorial Scholarship\u0022\u0026nbsp;noted on the check or in a separate note, and should be mailed to: Georgia Tech Foundation, Inc., 760 Spring Street, NW, Suite 400, Atlanta, GA 30308.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn-line gifts can be made at \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/development.gatech.edu\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Ehttps:\/\/development.gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E, using the \u2018GIVE NOW\u2019 button and following directions provided.\u0026nbsp;In the \u2018Other Designation\u2019 box, enter \u201cGoldia Mae Burchfield Memorial Scholarship.\u201d\u0026nbsp;Each donor will be acknowledged by the Georgia Tech Foundation, and a list of all donors will be shared with the Burchfield family.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Goldia Mae Burchfield Memorial Scholarship is open for contributions again this year. It was established last year to support students in pursuit of their undergraduate degree.\u0026nbsp;Ms. Burchfield, mother to Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems Financial Manager, Gay Burchfield, died of COVID-19 on June 8th, 2020, at the age of 80, in Starkville, Mississippi. She lived a life of service to those in her community, with a particular emphasis on education.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n\r\n\u003Cp\u003EThe Burchfield family selected sophomore Catherine Shamanski in the College of Psychology to receive a $200 scholarship. Shamanski will serve as a Team Leader in a section of the GT-1000 class, helping incoming first year students to find their footing on campus.\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n\r\n\u003Ch3\u003ERead More...\u003C\/h3\u003E\r\n","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The Goldia Mae Burchfield Memorial Scholarship seeks donations to support undergrads."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2021-08-18 19:15:10","changed_gmt":"2025-12-10 15:34:54","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2021-08-18T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2021-08-18T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"637062":{"id":"637062","type":"image","title":"Goldia Mae Burchfield","body":null,"created":"1594994010","gmt_created":"2020-07-17 13:53:30","changed":"1594994010","gmt_changed":"2020-07-17 13:53:30","alt":"Portrait of Godia Mae Burchfield, mother of GT BBISS Financial Manager, Gay Burchfield.","file":{"fid":"242342","name":"Goldia_Mae_Burchfield_Portrait_Sized.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/Goldia_Mae_Burchfield_Portrait_Sized.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/Goldia_Mae_Burchfield_Portrait_Sized.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":315199,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/images\/Goldia_Mae_Burchfield_Portrait_Sized.jpg?itok=ABgu9qZI"}}},"media_ids":["637062"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/development.gatech.edu","title":"Online Donations"}],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[{"id":"129","name":"Institute and Campus"},{"id":"134","name":"Student and Faculty"},{"id":"194836","name":"Sustainability"}],"keywords":[{"id":"184288","name":"covid"},{"id":"185320","name":"Scholarship Fund"},{"id":"66111","name":"Georgia Tech Foundation"},{"id":"166871","name":"bbiss_big_ideas"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Research Communications Program Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686736":{"#nid":"686736","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Connecting Communities: Georgia Tech\u2019s Community-Engaged Research Council Drives Engagement and Impact","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s research enterprise is expanding its reach beyond campus walls, thanks to the work of the Community-Engaged Research (CER) Council. Formed in 2024, the council focuses on making collaborations between Georgia Tech and community partners easier, more strategic, and more impactful.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cAt Georgia Tech, there\u2019s incredible expertise in community engagement,\u201d said \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scre.research.gatech.edu\/ruthie-yow\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ERuthie Yow\u003C\/a\u003E SCoRE\u2019s associate director, who facilitates the council. \u201cBut until now, there was no centralized way to connect those efforts. The council fills that gap.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFive Pillars for Impact\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EThe council\u2019s strategy centers on five pillars: Coordination, Partners, Faculty Training and Recognition, Communication, and Resource Development. These priorities emerged from a strategic planning process involving seven interdisciplinary research institutes (IRIs) and centers, including \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/sustainability\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EBrook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems\u003C\/a\u003E (BBISS), \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/ipat\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EInstitute for People and Technology (IPaT),\u003C\/a\u003E \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/energy.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EStrategic Energy Institute (SEI),\u003C\/a\u003E \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/rbi\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ERenewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI),\u003C\/a\u003E the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/innovate.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EEnterprise Innovation Institute (EI\u00b2),\u003C\/a\u003E \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/pingeorgia.org\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EPartnership for Inclusive Innovation\u003C\/a\u003E (PIN) and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.scre.research.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ESCoRE\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENew Tool: Community Connect Website\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ECouncil members are developing new tools to support these priorities, including the brand-new \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/communityconnect.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ECommunity Connect\u003C\/a\u003E website, led by \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/nicole-kennard\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ENicole Kennard,\u003C\/a\u003E assistant director for Community-Engaged Research in BBISS. The platform connects faculty and community partners by allowing them to create profiles, post engagement opportunities, and view an interactive map of partnerships.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWhen I started this role, faculty told me they wanted to know who Georgia Tech was already working with and how to find new partners,\u201d Kennard said. \u201cThey didn\u2019t want to duplicate efforts or cold-call potential partners. This website addresses this challenge by showing existing connections and helping track engagement.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe site will also serve as a data repository to measure impact of partnerships. \u201cHaving this data will help us advocate for infrastructure and support for community-engaged research,\u201d Kennard added.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBBISS, IPaT, and more than 70 people from five of the Institute\u2019s colleges and 18 units across GT supported the development of this new interactive site. The \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/communityconnect.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Esite\u003C\/a\u003E is up and running while the team makes minor adjustments before a full launch in Spring 2026. Make a profile and share any website feedback with \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/nicole.kennard@gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ENicole Kennard\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBuilding Capacity: Grant Readiness Training\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EIn September, the council sponsored a grant readiness training for 18 community-based organizations. Led by SCoRE,\u0026nbsp;the two-day workshop covered proposal basics, budgeting, logic models, and outcome measurement parameters. Over the course of two full days at the Outdoor Activity Center in West Atlanta, participants in the training helped these partners build the foundational systems, content, and strategies needed for effective grant seeking. Rather than focusing solely on writing techniques, this intensive workshop emphasized organizational readiness\u2014equipping participants with materials such as boilerplate content, budget templates, outcome measurement frameworks, and funder research strategies. Tailored for organizations with limited staff who juggle multiple roles, the training provided practical, immediately applicable tools that support a proactive, long-term approach to securing grant funding. Read more about the training \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scre.research.gatech.edu\/node\/3243\u0022 title=\u0022https:\/\/scre.research.gatech.edu\/node\/3243\u0022\u003Ehere\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECollaboration in Action: Clarkston Project\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EThrough the leadership of council members Leigh Hopkins and Candice McKie, the council is launching a collaboration with the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cedr.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ECenter for Economic Development Research\u003C\/a\u003E (CEDR), to support strategic visioning for the City of Clarkston after funding cuts threatened its planning process. Clarkston, Georgia, one of the most culturally diverse cities in the country, is moving into the second phase of their collaboration with CEDR. The two groups together are continuing to work on place-making, community-wide events, and creative incentives to attract and retain new businesses.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIt was a great example of pooling resources to lift up community vision and meet a community need,\u201d Yow said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENetworking for Impact\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EOn December 10, the council will host a networking event for faculty and staff engaged in CER. The goal is to share successes, attract new collaborators, and identify projects for 2026.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJoin us at 2 p.m. in the Student Success Center, President\u2019s Suite B , for light refreshments.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEngagement Across IRIs\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s interdisciplinary research institutes are already leading impactful projects: IPaT\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.cearhub.org\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ECEAR Hub\u003C\/a\u003E supports \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.cearhub.org\/projects\/pin-point-resilience-projects\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Eclimate and cultural resilience in Georgia\u2019s barrier islands\u003C\/a\u003E; BBISS works on \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scre.research.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/2024-10\/Case%20Study%20%235.pdf\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Econservation and cultural sustainability\u003C\/a\u003E with tribal Ojibwe partners; SEI\u2019s Energy Faculty Fellows Program \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/third-cohort-energy-faculty-fellow-program-attracts-multidisciplinary-researchers\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Ebuilds research networks with minority-serving institutions\u003C\/a\u003E; RBI\u2019s ReWood initiative advances renewable forest biotechnology for a climate-smart economy.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFaculty interested in learning more about CER can start by connecting with the council members. \u201cWe want to make it easy for researchers and communities to create mutually beneficial partnerships,\u201d Yow said. \u201cReach out, share your work, and join us in building Georgia Tech\u2019s impact.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECouncil members include Terri Sapp (RBI), Clint Zeagler (IPaT), Nicole Kennard (BBISS), Leigh Hopkins and Candice McKie (CEDR), Yang You (SEI), Katie O\u0027Connor (PIN), Ruthie Yow (SCoRE), and Rose Santa Gonzalez (Institute for Robotics \u0026amp; Intelligent Machines.)\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u201cAt Georgia Tech, there\u2019s incredible expertise in community engagement,\u201d said Ruthie Yow. \u201cBut until now, there was no centralized way to connect those efforts. The council fills that gap.\u201d The council\u2019s strategy centers on five pillars: Coordination, Partners, Faculty Training and Recognition, Communication, and Resource Development.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech has considerable expertise in community engagement. The CER council connects all the initiatives around campus adding impact and reach to everyone\u0027s efforts."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2025-12-04 17:42:29","changed_gmt":"2025-12-09 15:57:08","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-12-04T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-12-04T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678771":{"id":"678771","type":"image","title":"group-photo-Grant-Writing-Workshop_cropped.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EGrant readiness training participants and facilitators, pictured at the West Atlanta Watershed Alliance\u0027s Outdoor Activity Center. Photo includes: \u0026nbsp;Kristin Janacek (BBISS), Thomas Fuentes (Cascade Springs Nature Preserve), Awaz Jabari (Refugee Women\u0027s Network), Anurupa Roy (Center for Sustainable Communities), Freddie Stevens III (Re\u0027Gen Community Advisory), Chuck Barlow Sr. (Henderson School Alumni Association and Trust), Katie Kissel (Unearthing Farm and Market), Anna Tinoco Santiago (SCoRE), Tia Davis (ArtsXChange), Cassandra Knight (Henderson School Alumni Association and Trust), Desiree Jones (Georgia Advancing Communities Together), Alexandra Rodriguez Dalmau (SCoRE), Pabitra Poudyel (Refugee Women\u0027s Network), Katie O\u0027Connell (Georgia Tech School of City and Regional Planning), Ruthie Yow (SCoRE), and Meena Khodayar (Refugee Women\u0027s Network)\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1764964749","gmt_created":"2025-12-05 19:59:09","changed":"1765290727","gmt_changed":"2025-12-09 14:32:07","alt":"Group picture of Community Engaged Research workshop participants.","file":{"fid":"262846","name":"group-photo-Grant-Writing-Workshop_cropped.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/05\/group-photo-Grant-Writing-Workshop_cropped.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/05\/group-photo-Grant-Writing-Workshop_cropped.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1276688,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/12\/05\/group-photo-Grant-Writing-Workshop_cropped.jpg?itok=IMjYWSQ5"}}},"media_ids":["678771"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"},{"id":"660398","name":"Sustainability Hub"}],"categories":[{"id":"42901","name":"Community"},{"id":"194836","name":"Sustainability"}],"keywords":[{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"},{"id":"188020","name":"go-rbi"},{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"},{"id":"194869","name":"community-engaged research"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:jennifer.martin@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EJennifer Martin\u003C\/a\u003E, Assistant Director of Research Communications Services\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["jennifer.martin@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686330":{"#nid":"686330","#data":{"type":"news","title":"How the US Cut Climate-Changing Emissions While Its Economy More Than\u00a0Doubled","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv class=\u0022theconversation-article-body\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECountries around the world have been discussing the need to rein in climate change \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.un.org\/en\/climatechange\/un-climate-conferences\u0022\u003Efor three decades\u003C\/a\u003E, yet global greenhouse gas emissions \u2013 and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/climate.copernicus.eu\/climate-indicators\/temperature\u0022\u003Eglobal temperatures\u003C\/a\u003E with them \u2013 \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ourworldindata.org\/co2-and-greenhouse-gas-emissions\u0022\u003Ekeep rising\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen it seems like we\u2019re getting nowhere, it\u2019s useful to step back and examine the progress that has been made.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELet\u2019s take a look at the United States, historically the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/education.cfr.org\/learn\/reading\/who-releases-most-greenhouse-gases\u0022\u003Eworld\u2019s largest greenhouse gas emitter\u003C\/a\u003E. Over those three decades, the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/fred.stlouisfed.org\/series\/POPTOTUSA647NWDB\u0022\u003EU.S. population soared by 28%\u003C\/a\u003E and the economy, as measured by gross domestic product adjusted for inflation, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/fred.stlouisfed.org\/series\/GDPCA\u0022\u003Emore than doubled\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYet U.S. emissions from many of the activities that produce greenhouse gases \u2013 transportation, industry, agriculture, heating and cooling of buildings \u2013 have remained \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.eia.gov\/environment\/emissions\/carbon\/\u0022\u003Eabout the same\u003C\/a\u003E over the past 30 years. Transportation is a bit up; industry a bit down. And electricity, once the nation\u2019s largest source of greenhouse gas emissions, has seen its emissions drop significantly.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ciframe class=\u0022tc-infographic-datawrapper\u0022 style=\u0022border-width:0;\u0022 id=\u0022YzooO\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/datawrapper.dwcdn.net\/YzooO\/1\/\u0022 height=\u0022400px\u0022 width=\u0022100%\u0022 scrolling=\u0022no\u0022 frameborder=\u00220\u0022\u003E\u003C\/iframe\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOverall, the U.S. is still among the countries with the highest \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ourworldindata.org\/co2-and-greenhouse-gas-emissions\u0022\u003Eper capita emissions\u003C\/a\u003E, so there\u2019s room for improvement, and its emissions haven\u2019t fallen enough to put the country on track to meet \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/unfccc.int\/sites\/default\/files\/2024-12\/United%20States%202035%20NDC.pdf\u0022\u003Eits pledges\u003C\/a\u003E under the 10-year-old \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/unfccc.int\/process-and-meetings\/the-paris-agreement\u0022\u003EParis climate agreement\u003C\/a\u003E. But U.S. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/ghgemissions\/inventory-us-greenhouse-gas-emissions-and-sinks\u0022\u003Eemissions are down\u003C\/a\u003E about 15% over the past 10 years.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere\u2019s how that happened:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EUS Electricity Emissions Have Fallen\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EU.S. electricity use \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.eia.gov\/todayinenergy\/detail.php?id=65264\u0022\u003Ehas been rising\u003C\/a\u003E lately with the shift toward more electrification of cars and heating and cooling and expansion of data centers, yet greenhouse gas emissions from electricity are down by almost 30% since 1995.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne of the main reasons for this big drop is that Americans are using less coal and more natural gas to make electricity.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBoth coal and natural gas are fossil fuels. Both \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.eia.gov\/energyexplained\/energy-and-the-environment\/where-greenhouse-gases-come-from.php#\u0022\u003Erelease carbon dioxide\u003C\/a\u003E to the atmosphere when they are burned to make electricity, and that carbon dioxide traps heat, raising global temperatures. But power plants can \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.eia.gov\/todayinenergy\/detail.php?id=44436\u0022\u003Emake electricity more efficiently\u003C\/a\u003E using natural gas compared with coal, so it produces less emissions per unit of power.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ciframe class=\u0022tc-infographic-datawrapper\u0022 style=\u0022border-width:0;\u0022 id=\u0022u3fo9\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/datawrapper.dwcdn.net\/u3fo9\/1\/\u0022 height=\u0022400px\u0022 width=\u0022100%\u0022 scrolling=\u0022no\u0022 frameborder=\u00220\u0022\u003E\u003C\/iframe\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhy did the U.S. start using more natural gas?\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EResearch and technological innovation in fracking and horizontal drilling have allowed companies to extract more oil and gas at lower cost, making it \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/rmi.org\/utilities-analysts-and-customers-agree-transitioning-from-coal-saves-money\/\u0022\u003Echeaper to produce electricity\u003C\/a\u003E from natural gas rather than coal.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs a result, utilities have built more natural gas power plants \u2013 especially super-efficient \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gevernova.com\/gas-power\/resources\/education\/combined-cycle-power-plants\u0022\u003Ecombined cycle\u003C\/a\u003E gas power plants, which produce power from gas turbines and also capture waste heat from those turbines to generate more power. More coal plants have been shutting down or running less.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ciframe class=\u0022tc-infographic-datawrapper\u0022 style=\u0022border-width:0;\u0022 id=\u0022zl7DI\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/datawrapper.dwcdn.net\/zl7DI\/1\/\u0022 height=\u0022400px\u0022 width=\u0022100%\u0022 scrolling=\u0022no\u0022 frameborder=\u00220\u0022\u003E\u003C\/iframe\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBecause natural gas is a more efficient fuel than coal, it has been a win for climate in comparison, even though it\u2019s a fossil fuel. The U.S. has reduced emissions from electricity as a result.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESignificant \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/energy-star-on-the-trump-administrations-target-list-has-a-long-history-of-helping-consumers-wallets-and-the-planet-258152\u0022\u003Eimprovements in energy efficiency\u003C\/a\u003E, from appliances to lighting, have also played a role. Even though tech gadgets seem to be recharging everywhere all the time today, household electricity use, per person, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.eia.gov\/todayinenergy\/detail.php?id=49036\u0022\u003Eplateaued over the first two decades of the 2000s after rising continuously\u003C\/a\u003E since the 1940s.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ECosts for Renewable Electricity, Batteries Fall\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EU.S. renewable electricity generation, including wind, solar and hydro power, has \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.eia.gov\/energyexplained\/electricity\/electricity-in-the-us.php\u0022\u003Enearly tripled since 1995\u003C\/a\u003E, helping to further reduce emissions from electricity generation.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECosts for solar and wind power have fallen so much that they are now \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/energyinnovation.org\/report\/the-coal-cost-crossover-3-0\/\u0022\u003Echeaper than coal\u003C\/a\u003E and competitive with natural gas. Fourteen states, including most of the Great Plains, now get \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cleanpower.org\/facts\/state-fact-sheets\/\u0022\u003Eat least 30% of their power\u003C\/a\u003E from solar, wind and battery storage.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ciframe class=\u0022tc-infographic-datawrapper\u0022 style=\u0022border-width:0;\u0022 id=\u0022Hw4VE\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/datawrapper.dwcdn.net\/Hw4VE\/1\/\u0022 height=\u0022400px\u0022 width=\u0022100%\u0022 scrolling=\u0022no\u0022 frameborder=\u00220\u0022\u003E\u003C\/iframe\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile wind power has been cost competitive with fossil fuels for \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/700156\/original\/file-20251104-66-ftct1o.png\u0022\u003Eat least 20 years\u003C\/a\u003E, solar photovoltaic power has only been competitive with fossil fuels for \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.lazard.com\/news-announcements\/lazard-releases-2025-levelized-cost-of-energyplus-report-pr\/\u0022\u003Eabout 10 years\u003C\/a\u003E. So expect deployment of solar PV to \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.iea.org\/news\/global-renewable-capacity-is-set-to-grow-strongly-driven-by-solar-pv\u0022\u003Econtinue to increase\u003C\/a\u003E, both in the U.S. and internationally, even as U.S. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.npr.org\/2025\/07\/16\/nx-s1-5462190\/trump-tax-credit-solar-ev-heat-pump\u0022\u003Efederal subsidies disappear\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBoth wind and solar provide intermittent power: The sun does not always shine, and the wind does not always blow. There are a number of ways utilities are dealing with this. One way is to use \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.energy.gov\/oe\/demand-response\u0022\u003Edemand management\u003C\/a\u003E, offering lower prices for power during off-peak periods or discounts for companies that can cut their power use during high demand. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.energy.gov\/lpo\/virtual-power-plants-projects\u0022\u003EVirtual power plants\u003C\/a\u003E aggregate several kinds of distributed energy resources \u2013 solar panels on homes, batteries and even smart thermostats \u2013 to manage power supply and demand. The U.S. had an estimated \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/transformers-magazine.com\/tm-news\/north-american-virtual-power-plants-grow-13-7\/\u0022\u003E37.5 gigawatts of virtual power plants\u003C\/a\u003E in 2024, equivalent to about 37.5 nuclear power reactors.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-center zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/700156\/original\/file-20251104-66-ftct1o.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Charts show cost decline compared with fossil fuels.\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/700156\/original\/file-20251104-66-ftct1o.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/700156\/original\/file-20251104-66-ftct1o.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=345\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/700156\/original\/file-20251104-66-ftct1o.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=345\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/700156\/original\/file-20251104-66-ftct1o.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=345\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/700156\/original\/file-20251104-66-ftct1o.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=433\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/700156\/original\/file-20251104-66-ftct1o.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=433\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/700156\/original\/file-20251104-66-ftct1o.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=433\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003EGlobally, the costs of solar, onshore wind and EV batteries fell quickly over the first two decades of the 2000s.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Ca class=\u0022source\u0022 href=\u0022https:\/\/www.ipcc.ch\/report\/ar6\/wg3\/chapter\/summary-for-policymakers\/#figure-spm-3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution\u0022\u003EIPCC 6th Assessment Report\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother energy management method is battery storage, which is just now \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.eia.gov\/todayinenergy\/detail.php?id=64586\u0022\u003Ebeginning to take off\u003C\/a\u003E. Battery \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/about.bnef.com\/insights\/commodities\/lithium-ion-battery-pack-prices-see-largest-drop-since-2017-falling-to-115-per-kilowatt-hour-bloombergnef\/\u0022\u003Ecosts have come down\u003C\/a\u003E enough in the past few years to make utility-scale battery storage cost-effective.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ciframe class=\u0022tc-infographic-datawrapper\u0022 style=\u0022border-width:0;\u0022 id=\u0022nX9Rl\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/datawrapper.dwcdn.net\/nX9Rl\/2\/\u0022 height=\u0022400px\u0022 width=\u0022100%\u0022 scrolling=\u0022no\u0022 frameborder=\u00220\u0022\u003E\u003C\/iframe\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWhat About Driving?\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the U.S., gasoline consumption has remained roughly constant but \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.energy.gov\/eere\/vehicles\/articles\/fotw-1237-may-9-2022-fuel-economy-all-vehicle-classes-has-improved\u0022\u003Efuel efficiency has generally improved\u003C\/a\u003E over the decades.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESales of electric vehicle, which could cut emissions more, have been slow, however. Some of this could be due to the success of fracking: U.S. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/afdc.energy.gov\/data\/10324\u0022\u003Epetroleum production has increased\u003C\/a\u003E, and gasoline and diesel \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.rff.org\/publications\/explainers\/gas-prices-101\/\u0022\u003Eprices have remained relatively low\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPeople in other countries are switching \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.virta.global\/global-electric-vehicle-market\u0022\u003Eto electric vehicles more rapidly\u003C\/a\u003E than in the U.S. as the cost of EVs has fallen. Chinese consumers can buy an entry-level EV for \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/electrek.co\/2025\/04\/08\/byds-low-cost-seagull-ev-now-starts-under-8000-china\/\u0022\u003Eunder US$10,000\u003C\/a\u003E in China with the help of government subsidies, and the country \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.iea.org\/reports\/global-ev-outlook-2025\/trends-in-electric-car-markets-2\u0022\u003Eleads the world in EV sales\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn 2024, people in the U.S. bought \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.iea.org\/reports\/global-ev-outlook-2025\/trends-in-electric-car-markets-2\u0022\u003E1.6 million EVs\u003C\/a\u003E, and global sales reached \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.virta.global\/global-electric-vehicle-market\u0022\u003E17 million\u003C\/a\u003E, up 25% from the year before.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ciframe class=\u0022tc-infographic-datawrapper\u0022 style=\u0022border-width:0;\u0022 id=\u0022fSBGn\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/datawrapper.dwcdn.net\/fSBGn\/1\/\u0022 height=\u0022400px\u0022 width=\u0022100%\u0022 scrolling=\u0022no\u0022 frameborder=\u00220\u0022\u003E\u003C\/iframe\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe Unknowns Ahead: What About Data Centers?\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe construction of \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/ais-ballooning-energy-consumption-puts-spotlight-on-data-center-efficiency-254192\u0022\u003Enew data centers\u003C\/a\u003E, in part to serve the explosive growth of artificial intelligence, is drawing a lot of attention to \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/how-utilities-are-working-to-meet-ai-data-centers-voracious-appetite-for-electricity-240196\u0022\u003Efuture energy demand\u003C\/a\u003E and to the uncertainty ahead.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EData centers are increasing electricity demand in some locations, such as \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.npr.org\/2025\/07\/17\/nx-s1-5469933\/virginia-data-centers-residents-saying-no\u0022\u003Enorthern Virginia\u003C\/a\u003E, Dallas, Phoenix, Chicago and Atlanta. The future \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.wri.org\/insights\/us-data-centers-electricity-demand\u0022\u003Eelectricity demand growth from data centers is still unclear\u003C\/a\u003E, though, meaning the effects of data centers on electric rates and power system emissions are also uncertain.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHowever, AI is not the only reason to watch for increased electricity demand: The U.S. can expect growing electricity demand for industrial processes and electric vehicles, as well as the overall transition from using oil and gas for heating and appliances \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nrel.gov\/analysis\/electrification-futures\u0022\u003Eto using electricity\u003C\/a\u003E that continues across the country.\u003C!-- Below is The Conversation\u0027s page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --\u003E\u003Cimg style=\u0022border-color:!important;border-style:none;box-shadow:none !important;margin:0 !important;max-height:1px !important;max-width:1px !important;min-height:1px !important;min-width:1px !important;opacity:0 !important;outline:none !important;padding:0 !important;\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/counter.theconversation.com\/content\/268763\/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic\u0022 alt=\u0022The Conversation\u0022 width=\u00221\u0022 height=\u00221\u0022 referrerpolicy=\u0022no-referrer-when-downgrade\u0022\u003E\u003C!-- End of code. If you don\u0027t see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https:\/\/theconversation.com\/republishing-guidelines --\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis article is republished from \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThe Conversation\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E under a Creative Commons license. Read the \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/how-the-us-cut-climate-changing-emissions-while-its-economy-more-than-doubled-268763\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003Eoriginal article\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"full_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ECountries around the world have been discussing the need to rein in climate change for three decades, yet global greenhouse gas emissions \u2013 and global temperatures with them \u2013 keep rising.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Countries around the world have been discussing the need to rein in climate change for three decades, yet global greenhouse gas emissions \u2013 and global temperatures with them \u2013 keep rising."}],"uid":"27469","created_gmt":"2025-11-06 17:17:39","changed_gmt":"2025-12-08 19:34:19","author":"Kristen Bailey","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-11-06T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-11-06T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678588":{"id":"678588","type":"image","title":"Wind power near Dodge City, Kan. Halbergman\/iStock\/Getty Images Plus","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWind power near Dodge City, Kan. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gettyimages.com\/detail\/photo\/drone-shot-of-pick-up-truck-approaching-wind-royalty-free-image\/1287525883?phrase=road%20solar%20wind\u0026amp;searchscope=image,film\u0026amp;adppopup=true\u0022\u003EHalbergman\/iStock\/Getty Images Plus\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1762795118","gmt_created":"2025-11-10 17:18:38","changed":"1762795118","gmt_changed":"2025-11-10 17:18:38","alt":"Wind power near Dodge City, Kan. Halbergman\/iStock\/Getty Images Plus","file":{"fid":"262642","name":"file-20251104-56-f02oyt.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/10\/file-20251104-56-f02oyt.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/10\/file-20251104-56-f02oyt.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":171900,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/10\/file-20251104-56-f02oyt.jpg?itok=xs5XfgAn"}}},"media_ids":["678588"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/theconversation.com\/how-the-us-cut-climate-changing-emissions-while-its-economy-more-than-doubled-268763","title":"Read This Article on The Conversation"}],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"194701","name":"go-resarchnews"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71911","name":"Earth and Environment"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Ch5\u003EAuthor:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/profiles\/valerie-thomas-1633560\u0022\u003EValerie Thomas\u003C\/a\u003E, Professor of Industrial Engineering, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/institutions\/georgia-institute-of-technology-1310\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EGeorgia Institute of Technology\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch5\u003EMedia Contact:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShelley Wunder-Smith\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:shelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003Eshelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686766":{"#nid":"686766","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Advancing Neonatal Health Monitoring in Ethiopia","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ESoft, wearable system offers continuous wireless monitoring of newborns\u2019 health.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EA new, soft, all-in-one, wearable system has been designed for continuous wireless monitoring of neonatal health in low-resource settings. Developed by Georgia Tech researchers using advanced packaging technologies, the system features a chest-mounted patch and a forehead-mounted pulse oximeter that transmits real-time data to a smartphone app.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe wearable device measures and records important clinical parameters such as heart rate, respiration rate, temperature, electrocardiograms, and blood oxygen saturation. Speedy detection of abnormal readings in resource-challenged neonatal units could significantly reduce newborn mortality rates.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EThe device\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s41746-025-01974-8\u0022\u003Epilot study,\u003C\/a\u003E conducted at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital (TASH) in Addis Ababa, in collaboration with Abebaw Fekadu, Ph.D., from the Centre for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa (CDT Africa Inc.), and neonatologist Asrat Demtse, M.D., from the TASH department of pediatrics, demonstrated a significant improvement over current vital sign monitoring and recording methods by providing continuous oversight using less medical equipment while also reducing handwritten paper tracking. Vital signs are a group of the most crucial medical data that indicate the status of the body\u0027s life-sustaining functions. The pairing of this wearable system with a smartphone app automated the monitoring process and delivered a superior level of neonatal care compared to the current processes at Ethiopia\u2019s best hospital.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMedical staff and parents also observed a reduced need to wake their babies when using the wearable monitoring system. In addition, after participating in the study, 84% of Ethiopian parents said they would use the device at home.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cProfessor \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/faculty\/yeo\u0022\u003EHong Yeo\u003C\/a\u003E and I connected immediately after he gave a brief research talk about a new, wearable cardiac monitor for children,\u201d said \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/faculty\/gleason\u0022\u003ERudy Gleason\u003C\/a\u003E. \u201cI asked him if we could co-develop a wearable device for newborn babies in Ethiopia that measured not one, but a variety of vital signs. We both thought it was a great idea.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYeo and Gleason are faculty members in the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering and the Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering at Georgia Tech. And both are affiliated with Georgia Tech\u2019s Institute for People and Technology, which seeks to improve global health.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn 2009, Gleason and his wife were in the process of adopting a baby from Ethiopia named Kennedy. Before they could bring her home, however, she died \u2014 the result, Gleason said, of a seemingly preventable combination of malnutrition and diarrhea.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThis loss redirected my academic teaching, research, and service activities at Georgia Tech,\u201d said Gleason. \u201cSince then, I\u2019ve spent most of my career focused on developing resource-appropriate biomedical devices to reduce maternal and child mortality.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWhen we started this latest study, Ethiopian parents were reluctant to participate. But once we recruited a few mothers in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), everyone in the NICU community wanted their child to participate in our wearable health monitoring system.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAccording to Yeo, \u201cWe designed the wearable patch as a safe, clinical-grade solution with minimal skin irritation. Its key design advantage lies in the use of nanomembranes, which allows the device to be soft and highly conformal to the baby\u0027s skin. Wearing the device helps to ensure critical events are not missed since the built-in automation acts as a force multiplier, freeing clinical staff to focus more on complex decision-making rather than manual data acquisition.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cRudy has a deep love for the people of Ethiopia. I feel fortunate to have met him as we embark on this project aimed at helping sick babies in the country. Without his support, I could not envision bringing this technology to Ethiopia,\u201d said Yeo.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDuring the past decade, child mortality rates have decreased in Ethiopia, but newborn deaths have remained mostly unchanged. Both Yeo and Gleason feel their new wearable neonatal device could significantly lower mortality rates for newborns in Ethiopia as they advance this research.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECitation:\u003C\/strong\u003E Zhou, L., Joseph, M., Lee, Y.J. \u003Cem\u003Eet al\u003C\/em\u003E. Soft, all-in-one, nanomembrane wearable system for advancing neonatal health monitoring in Ethiopia. \u003Cem\u003Enpj Digit. Med.\u003C\/em\u003E \u003Cstrong\u003E8\u003C\/strong\u003E, 575 (2025).\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDOI:\u003C\/strong\u003E https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41746-025-01974-8\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFunding:\u003C\/strong\u003E Gates Foundation (INV-006189) and the National Institutes of Health (R01HD100635). This work was also supported by the Imlay Foundation\u2014Innovation Fund.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ESoft, wearable system offers continuous wireless monitoring of newborns\u2019 health.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Soft, wearable system offers continuous wireless monitoring of newborns\u2019 health."}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2025-12-08 14:09:04","changed_gmt":"2025-12-08 16:16:17","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-12-08T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-12-08T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678779":{"id":"678779","type":"image","title":"Wearable chest-mounted patch and forehead-mounted pulse oximeter shown on a mannequin baby for illustration","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWearable chest-mounted patch and forehead-mounted pulse oximeter shown on a mannequin baby for illustration\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1765202853","gmt_created":"2025-12-08 14:07:33","changed":"1765202877","gmt_changed":"2025-12-08 14:07:57","alt":"Wearable chest-mounted patch and forehead-mounted pulse oximeter shown on a mannequin baby for illustration","file":{"fid":"262854","name":"BabyMannequin-1.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/08\/BabyMannequin-1.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/08\/BabyMannequin-1.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":2874342,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/12\/08\/BabyMannequin-1.jpg?itok=L_YBPpUG"}},"678778":{"id":"678778","type":"image","title":"Wearable chest-mounted patch and forehead-mounted pulse oximeter shown close-up","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWearable chest-mounted patch and forehead-mounted pulse oximeter shown close-up\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1765202818","gmt_created":"2025-12-08 14:06:58","changed":"1765202834","gmt_changed":"2025-12-08 14:07:14","alt":"Wearable chest-mounted patch and forehead-mounted pulse oximeter shown close-up","file":{"fid":"262853","name":"Three-Sensors-Together.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/08\/Three-Sensors-Together.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/08\/Three-Sensors-Together.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1521119,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/12\/08\/Three-Sensors-Together.jpg?itok=1FoqLTDU"}},"678777":{"id":"678777","type":"image","title":"Professor Rudy Gleason with baby and parents at a hospital in Ethiopia","body":"\u003Cp\u003EProfessor Rudy Gleason with baby and parents at a hospital in Ethiopia\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1765202788","gmt_created":"2025-12-08 14:06:28","changed":"1765202804","gmt_changed":"2025-12-08 14:06:44","alt":"Professor Rudy Gleason with baby and parents at a hospital in Ethiopia","file":{"fid":"262852","name":"Gleason-in-Hospital.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/08\/Gleason-in-Hospital.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/08\/Gleason-in-Hospital.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":598089,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/12\/08\/Gleason-in-Hospital.jpg?itok=dxKJnZlo"}},"678776":{"id":"678776","type":"image","title":"Professors Hong Yeo and Rudy Gleason","body":"\u003Cp\u003EProfessors Hong Yeo and Rudy Gleason\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1765202713","gmt_created":"2025-12-08 14:05:13","changed":"1765202763","gmt_changed":"2025-12-08 14:06:03","alt":"Professors Hong Yeo and Rudy Gleason","file":{"fid":"262851","name":"Hong-yeo-and-Gleason.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/08\/Hong-yeo-and-Gleason.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/08\/Hong-yeo-and-Gleason.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":291765,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/12\/08\/Hong-yeo-and-Gleason.jpg?itok=4sfdbm0W"}}},"media_ids":["678779","678778","678777","678776"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto: walter.rich@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EWalter Rich\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EResearch Communications\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["walter.rich@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686759":{"#nid":"686759","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Team Revive \u0026 Survive Wins Convergence Innovation Competition in Asia","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EStudent team \u003Cstrong\u003ERevive \u0026amp; Survive\u003C\/strong\u003E from Waseda University, International Christian University, and Keio University in Japan won the Georgia Tech \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/ipat\u0022\u003EInstitute for People and Technology\u2019s\u003C\/a\u003E (IPaT) \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/ipat\/cic\u0022\u003EConvergence Innovation Competition\u003C\/a\u003E (CIC) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, December 1, 2025. This was the second time the contest was held in Asia. This was the second time the contest was held in Asia\u2014the contest was originally started in 2007 at Georgia Tech.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe winning team members were Taiga Cogger, Ryuichiro Go, Kokoro Cogger, and Taiyo Mitsuoka. The team won $2,000 dollars. The team\u2019s faculty sponsor was Kiichiro DeLuca, a faculty member at Waseda University and partner at WERU Investment, a global early-stage venture capital firm based in Tokyo.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs the winner, the Revive \u0026amp; Survive student team is also invited to be part of Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/create-x.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ECreate-X\u003C\/a\u003E startup launch in summer 2026 as well as Georgia Tech\u2019s Demo Day, August 2026, in Atlanta. Some travel support for the Atlanta trip will be provided.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERevive \u0026amp; Survive\u2019s project empowers communities through regional revitalization and disaster preparedness for a more resilient and sustainable future.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECIC is a competition recognizing student innovation and entrepreneurship responding to today\u2019s global challenges and opportunities. Founded in 2007 in Atlanta, Georgia, CIC is organized by IPaT at the Georgia Institute of Technology.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor the 2025-2026 final pitches and award ceremony, the competition landed in Kaula Lampur, Malaysia. The competition focused on student teams from China, India, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam. Each year, organizers and participants forge new partnerships and foster more collaborations across the Asian continent. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/ipat\/cic\/fellows\u0022\u003EIPaT\u2019s CIC Asia Faculty Fellows\u003C\/a\u003E help cultivate those team projects and the students showcase their innovative ideas during the competition.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe CIC students, the support of the faculty fellows, the final competition presentations, and the invited industry forum combine to create a special and unique event,\u201d said IPaT executive director Michael Best. \u201cAll of the student finalist projects represented the very best in people-centered technologies responding to global challenges.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECIC Asia is distinct in how it brings teams from multiple countries together to interact and network. Most innovation competitions are single university or country.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe four runner-up finalist teams each received $1,000 dollars in prize money. The CIC Asia runner-up team projects and team members are listed below:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EChiliCare\u003C\/strong\u003E is an IoT and AI farming app with auto watering, pest detection, microclimate insights, crop plotting, and smart fertilizer guidance. Team Members: Muhammad Haizad bin Murad, Hafiy Azfar bin Mohd Masri, Hazriq Haykal Norrol Farhan, Muhammad Naim bin Mazni. Faculty Fellow: Dr. Masrah Azrifah Azmi Murad. Mentor: Dr. Azrina binti Kamaruddin. University: Universiti Putra Malaysia.\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPlaySpot\u003C\/strong\u003E makes booking sports facilities in the Philippines simple, and accessible for everyone. Team Members: Louie Gee G. Cabagay, Alwin Matthew T. Chiong, Daniel Justine R. Jadman, Raphael Luis T. Malolos. Faculty Fellow: Mr. Paulo Luis T. Lozano. University: De La Salle University (The Philippines).\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECityFix\u003C\/strong\u003E is a mobile and web platform enabling citizens to quickly report and track municipal issues with GPS, photos, and real-time updates. Team Member: Ng Jia Hong. Faculty Fellow: Ms. Putri Syaidatul Akma Binti Mohd Azmi. University: Multimedia University (Malaysia).\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFlow Vending Machine\u003C\/strong\u003E proposed having vending machines which dispense biodegradable pads installed around campus toilets to help women to have easy access to sanitary pads. Team Members: Ava Jeslina binti Mohd Jamil, Abigail Siew Kar Yan, Ashley Shakyna, Geneve Tsen Fan Qin. Faculty Fellow: Ms. Putri Syaidatul Akma, J.D. Mentor: Ms. Raja Razana Bt Raja Razali. University: Multimedia University (Malaysia).\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFuture Tech Forum\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe CIC event took place alongside the Future Tech Forum which was also organized by IPaT. The forum focused on innovations, opportunities, and advancements associated with human-centered AI, sustainable data centers, and digital trust and security. Expert panels and speakers from across Asia and Georgia Tech discussed the state of art in a rapidly changing world, with particular attention to what it means for Asian nations. The event was invitation only and limited to 150 attendees of established leaders and emerging innovators.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EParticipating technology speakers and panelists included:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHonorable YB Tuan Gobind Singh Deo\u003C\/strong\u003E, Minister, Ministry of Digital, Malaysia\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EChee Mun Foong\u003C\/strong\u003E, CEO, YTL AI Labs; and CPO, Ryt Bank\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EChen Change Loy\u003C\/strong\u003E, President\u0027s Chair Professor, CCDS, NTU; Director, MMLab@NTU; and Co-Associate Director, S-Lab\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJohn Lim Ji Xiong\u003C\/strong\u003E, Chief Digital Officer, GAMUDA\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHenry Yang\u003C\/strong\u003E, CMO, Manus\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDing Wang\u003C\/strong\u003E, Senior Researcher, Responsible AI, Google Research\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBenjamin Croc\u003C\/strong\u003E, CEO, BrioHR\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETzu Kit Chan\u003C\/strong\u003E, Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), Risks and Safety Advisor of Top Universities in the USA, Singapore, Canada, and France\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHari Krishnan\u003C\/strong\u003E, Co-founder and CEO of Genie Health\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBenoit Dubeau\u003C\/strong\u003E, Energy Strategy Manager, APAC, Amazon Web Services (AWS)\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECindy Lin\u003C\/strong\u003E, Professor, School of Interactive Computing, Georgia Tech\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EKo Chuan Zhen\u003C\/strong\u003E, Group CEO \u0026amp; Co-Founder, Plus Xnergy, and Executive Director, BM Greentech\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EZachary Loh\u003C\/strong\u003E, Market Development Manager, Hydroleap\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENge Foong Kheng\u003C\/strong\u003E, Engineering Manager, APAC, Global Switch\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EVerghese Jacob\u003C\/strong\u003E, SVP Technology, DayOne\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA photo album of the CIC and Future Tech Forum events can be \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/96938041@N06\/albums\/72177720330705410\u0022\u003Eviewed here\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E###\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EStudent team \u003Cstrong\u003ERevive \u0026amp; Survive\u003C\/strong\u003E from Waseda University, International Christian University, and Keio University in Japan won the Georgia Tech \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/ipat\u0022\u003EInstitute for People and Technology\u2019s\u003C\/a\u003E (IPaT) \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/ipat\/cic\u0022\u003EConvergence Innovation Competition\u003C\/a\u003E (CIC) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, December 1, 2025.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Student team Revive \u0026 Survive from Waseda University, International Christian University, and Keio University in Japan won the Georgia Tech Institute for People and Technology\u2019s (IPaT) Convergence Innovation Competition (CIC) held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysi"}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2025-12-05 17:11:17","changed_gmt":"2025-12-06 15:02:41","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-12-05T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-12-05T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678766":{"id":"678766","type":"image","title":"CIC Winner 2025-2026","body":"\u003Cp\u003EPictured: CIC winning student team \u003Cstrong\u003ERevive \u0026amp; Survive\u003C\/strong\u003E from Waseda University, International Christian University, and Keio University in Japan. Along with other participants and organizers of the competition.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1764954483","gmt_created":"2025-12-05 17:08:03","changed":"1764954990","gmt_changed":"2025-12-05 17:16:30","alt":"Student team Revive \u0026 Survive from Waseda University, International Christian University, and Keio University in Japan. ","file":{"fid":"262841","name":"1st-place-2025.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/05\/1st-place-2025.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/05\/1st-place-2025.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1551702,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/12\/05\/1st-place-2025.jpg?itok=_vvNhxm_"}},"678765":{"id":"678765","type":"image","title":"Four runner ups - CIC 2025-2026","body":"\u003Cp\u003EFrom top left, clockwise - Teams Chilicare, Playspot, CityFix, and Flow Vending Machine.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1764954399","gmt_created":"2025-12-05 17:06:39","changed":"1764954470","gmt_changed":"2025-12-05 17:07:50","alt":"Four runner ups - CIC 2025-2026","file":{"fid":"262840","name":"4-runner-ups.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/05\/4-runner-ups.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/05\/4-runner-ups.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1888965,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/12\/05\/4-runner-ups.jpg?itok=eaa34ipp"}}},"media_ids":["678766","678765"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWalter Rich\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["walter.rich@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686760":{"#nid":"686760","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Artist-in-Residence Program Bridges Art and Technology Through Immersive Performance","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s Institute for People and Technology (IPaT) artist-in-residence program recently concluded a new collaboration with Corian Ellisor, a distinguished educator and performer in concert dance and theater. The residency explored the intersection of art and technology, resulting in an innovative, multi-layered experience that invited audiences to engage with themes of joy, peace, and community.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe project began when Clint Zeagler, principal research scientist and IPaT\u2019s director of strategic partnerships, invited Ellisor to \u201cthink big\u201d and imagine how technology could amplify his artistic vision. \u201cThis was definitely a moment for me to step out of my comfort zone and to think on a bigger scale,\u201d said Ellisor. \u201cComing from a poor artist background, we\u2019re always just struggling to make anything. This was an opportunity to dream.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cArtist residencies within Georgia Tech\u2019s research centers and interdisciplinary research institutes help to drive innovation in our research enterprise, to discover new applications of our research within the arts, to build strong connections with community partners, and \u2014 most important of all \u2014 to create impactful new works of art,\u201d said Jason Freeman, associate vice provost for the arts at Georgia Tech. \u201cIPaT has long been at the forefront of GT\u2019s initiatives to collaborate with Atlanta-area artists. I am thrilled to see the success of this latest collaboration between Clint Zeagler and Corian Ellisor.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EEllisor, an Atlanta-based performance artist with a focus on dance theater, was selected as the IPaT\u2019s \u0026nbsp;2025 artist-in-residence. Ellisor has worked with arts communities locally and internationally including Georgia, Texas, Florida, Massachusetts, Washington DC, New York, Guatemala, Sweden, The Netherlands, Germany and The United Kingdom. He was awarded the choreography award at the University of Houston, The Walthall Fellowship through WonderRoot, \u201cTop 20 people to watch in 2013\u0022 by Atlanta\u2019s Creative loafing, an Atlanta Beltline Grant in 2014, an artist in residency award with the Lucky Penny in 2015, and the Best Choreography Award at the Houston Fringe Festival in 2019.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWorld Building Meets Performance Art\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EEllisor\u2019s concept centered on world building, a technique often used in gaming but adapted here for live performance. The goal was to create an immersive environment where audiences could interact and react, while maintaining an uplifting aesthetic. \u201cI wanted something that leaves the audience feeling good\u2014something hopeful,\u201d Ellisor explained.\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003ETo develop the project, Ellisor and Zeagler hosted workshops with Georgia Tech students and community members, encouraging free-form creation and dialogue around the question: How do people find joy and peace in a chaotic world? Three teams of Georgia Tech undergraduate students were assigned to collaborate with Ellisor and make an avatar of him. The first team was assigned to reproduce Ellisor\u2019s voice. The second team was assigned to generate a visual likeness of Ellisor. The third team worked on the outside aesthetics of a story booth.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe Story Booth: Technology Meets Emotion\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EA highlight of the residency was the Story Booth, a tech-enabled installation designed to collect personal narratives about joy and solace. Outfitted with full-body scans and voice capture, the booth featured a digital representation of Ellisor and used sentiment analysis to translate stories into color projections. \u201cIf someone shared something happy, the booth glowed orange; if it was sentimental, it turned blue,\u201d Ellisor noted. These dynamic visuals illuminated both the booth and its surroundings, creating a striking display of emotion through light.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAn Hour of Galleries Time\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EThe residency culminated in \u201cAn Hour of Galleries Time,\u201d an event combining video installations, interactive storytelling, and live dance performances. Dancers engaged with projected visuals before joining together for a collective performance against a massive, illuminated backdrop\u2014transforming the space into a living canvas of movement and light. The interactive performance was held November 23 at the Goat Farm Arts Center, a visual and performing arts center housed in a 19th-century complex of industrial buildings in west midtown Atlanta.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReflections on Collaboration\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EEllisor described the experience as transformative, \u201cI am very happy to have met this community of technologists that I would have never met because our worlds just do not cross at all. Another enlightening experience was trusting myself and trusting the vision\u2014and then letting other people do what they\u2019re supposed to do. Usually as an artist, we are sort of a solo factory. But having the trust in other people to make your vision happen\u2014and it happening\u2014was a really lovely experience.\u201d\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003EHe added, \u201cI am very grateful to have gone through this with Georgia Tech. There are some tech folks there that were very happy about the final product, which makes me happy.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s Institute for People and Technology (IPaT) artist-in-residence program recently concluded a new collaboration with Corian Ellisor, a distinguished educator and performer in concert dance and theater.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech\u2019s Institute for People and Technology (IPaT) artist-in-residence program recently concluded a new collaboration with Corian Ellisor, a distinguished educator and performer in concert dance and theater. "}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2025-12-05 17:44:08","changed_gmt":"2025-12-05 17:44:57","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-12-05T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-12-05T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678769":{"id":"678769","type":"image","title":"Corian Ellisor ","body":"\u003Cp\u003ECorian Ellisor performs at the Goat Farm Arts Center, November 23.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1764956493","gmt_created":"2025-12-05 17:41:33","changed":"1764956581","gmt_changed":"2025-12-05 17:43:01","alt":"Corian Ellisor ","file":{"fid":"262844","name":"Corian-dance1.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/05\/Corian-dance1.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/05\/Corian-dance1.png","mime":"image\/png","size":1743614,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/12\/05\/Corian-dance1.png?itok=OJr26v4P"}},"678768":{"id":"678768","type":"image","title":"Corian and fellow dance artists","body":"\u003Cp\u003ECorian Ellisor and fellow dance artists at the Goat Farm Arts Center event.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1764956117","gmt_created":"2025-12-05 17:35:17","changed":"1764956478","gmt_changed":"2025-12-05 17:41:18","alt":"Corian and fellow dance artists","file":{"fid":"262843","name":"corian-dancers.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/05\/corian-dancers.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/12\/05\/corian-dancers.png","mime":"image\/png","size":3279942,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/12\/05\/corian-dancers.png?itok=bvuZrkQ7"}}},"media_ids":["678769","678768"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWalter Rich\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["walter.rich@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"682867":{"#nid":"682867","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Researchers Make an Elemental Discovery     ","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA longstanding mystery of the periodic table involves a group of unique elements called lanthanides. Also known as rare earth elements, or REEs, these silvery-white metals are challenging to isolate, given their very similar chemical and physical properties. This similarity makes it difficult to distinguish REEs from one other during extraction and purification processes.\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EThe world has come to depend on lanthanides\u2019 magnetic and optical properties to drive much of modern technology \u2014 from medical imaging to missiles to smart phones. These metals also are in short supply, and because they\u2019re found in minerals, lanthanides are difficult to mine and separate. \u0026nbsp; But that may change \u2014 thanks to a Georgia Tech-led discovery of a new oxidation state for a lanthanide element known as praseodymium. \u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EFor the first time ever, praseodymium achieved a 5+ oxidation state. Oxidation occurs when a substance meets oxygen or another oxidizing substance. (The browning on the flesh of a cut apple, as well as rust on metal, are examples of oxidation.)\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003EAs far back as the 1890s, scientists suspected lanthanides might have a 5+ oxidation state, but \u0026nbsp;lanthanides in that state were too unstable to see, said \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/henry-la-pierre\u0022\u003EHenry \u201dPete\u201c La Pierre\u003C\/a\u003E, an associate professor in Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/chemistry.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Chemistry and Biochemistry\u003C\/a\u003E. Discovering an element\u2019s new oxidation state is like discovering a new element. As an example, La Pierre noted how plutonium\u2019s discovery opened up a whole new area of the periodic table.\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cA new oxidation state tells us what we don\u2019t know and gives us ideas for where to go,\u201d he explained. \u201cEach oxidation state of an element has distinct chemical and physical properties \u2014 so the first glimpse of a novel oxidation presents a roadmap for new possibilities.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003ELa Pierre and colleagues at University of Iowa and Washington State University recently discovered the 5+ oxidation state for lanthanides.\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cIt was predicted but never seen until we found it,\u201d said La Pierre, corresponding author of the study, \u201c\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s41557-025-01797-w\u0022\u003EPraseodymium in the Formal +5 Oxidation State\u003C\/a\u003E,\u201d which was recently published in \u003Cem\u003ENature Chemistry\u003C\/em\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u201cLanthanides\u2019 properties are really fantastic. We only use them commercially in one oxidation state \u2014 the 3+ oxidation state \u2014 which defines a set of magnetic and optical properties. If you can stabilize a higher oxidation state, it could lead to entirely new magnetic and optical properties.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003EThe researchers\u2019 breakthrough will broaden the lanthanides\u2019 technical applications in fields such as rare-earth mining and quantum technology and could lead to new electronic device architectures and applications.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cResearch in lanthanides has already yielded significant dividends for society in terms of technological development,\u201d La Pierre added.\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003EThe researchers hope to discover new tools for mining critical REEs, including improving lanthanide separation and recycling processes. When mining these elements, lanthanide elements are frequently mixed together. The separation process is painstaking and inefficient, generating a significant amount of waste. But with increasing global demand for REEs, the U.S. faces a supply issue. Figuring out how to improve lanthanides separation, potentially through oxidation chemistry, will ultimately enhance the supply of these critical elements.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u2014 Anne Wainscott-Sargent\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cem\u003EFunding: This research was supported by grants from the National Science Foundation and the U.S. Department of Energy.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ENew Oxidation State for a Rare Earth Element Could Advance Quantum and Electronic Devices\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"New Oxidation State for a Rare Earth Element Could Advance Quantum and Electronic Devices "}],"uid":"28766","created_gmt":"2025-06-24 14:06:30","changed_gmt":"2025-12-04 21:26:28","author":"Shelley Wunder-Smith","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-06-24T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-06-24T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677268":{"id":"677268","type":"image","title":"A diagram showing how the atoms are connected in the praseodymium compound (left); an image showing the most important electron interactions (right)","body":null,"created":"1750773245","gmt_created":"2025-06-24 13:54:05","changed":"1750773383","gmt_changed":"2025-06-24 13:56:23","alt":"A diagram showing how the atoms are connected in the praseodymium compound (left); a chart showing the most important electron interactions (right).","file":{"fid":"261151","name":"GT-Highlight-F1.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/06\/24\/GT-Highlight-F1.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/06\/24\/GT-Highlight-F1.png","mime":"image\/png","size":930594,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/06\/24\/GT-Highlight-F1.png?itok=ty_Q_pKW"}}},"media_ids":["677268"],"groups":[{"id":"372221","name":"Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"141","name":"Chemistry and Chemical Engineering"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"193652","name":"Matter and Systems"},{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71881","name":"Science and Technology"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:swundersmith3@gatech.edu\u0022\u003EShelley Wunder-Smith\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EDirector of Research Communications\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["swundersmith3@gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"684518":{"#nid":"684518","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Cutting-edge Paper Artists Exhibit at Paper Museum ","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENew Exhibition Series Honors Decades of Creative Exploration\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EATLANTA, Georgia (August 25, 2025) -- \u003Cem\u003ELegacies in Paper: Nancy Cohen, Sara Garden Armstrong, \u0026amp; Helen Hiebert\u003C\/em\u003E is on view at the Robert C. Williams Museum of Papermaking, September 4, 2025, through January 30, 2026. The exhibit brings together the work of three artists who have incorporated hand papermaking into their artistic practices for years. Nancy Cohen, Sara Garden Armstrong, and Helen Hiebert each describe a formative period of searching for versatile materials with the ability to take on the qualities required for two and three-dimensional work; could mimic textures of nature and the body; and could facilitate installation work of various scales. Individually, each artist found that the unique medium of hand papermaking could be transformed to encompass their visions, and it quickly became integral to their artwork.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EArmstrong, Cohen, and Hiebert build on the legacy of a community of artists pushing the craft of papermaking forward into contemporary forms. They bring unique voices to the medium: Hiebert\u2019s luminous constructions explore the interplay of light and structure; Cohen\u2019s sculptural works reflect ecological fragility and resilience; and Armstrong\u2019s immersive environments blur the boundaries between the organic and the engineered. Together, their works speak to the transformative potential of paper\u2014not only as a surface for expression but as a sculptural, spatial, and conceptual force. Through their hands, paper becomes a language of memory, a vessel of emotion, and a bridge between past and present.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJoin the museum staff and featured artists for a reception, 4-7 pm, Thursday, September 4, 2025 at 500 Tenth St. NW, Atlanta, GA 30332. This event is free and open to the public.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA full listing of associated programs can be found at\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/paper.gatech.edu\/program-listing\u0022\u003Ehttps:\/\/paper.gatech.edu\/program-listing\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESara Garden Armstrong\u003C\/strong\u003E received her Master of Fine Arts from the University of Alabama and a Master of Art Education from UAB. A past recipient of the Joan Mitchell Foundation CALL (Creating a Living Legacy) project, Armstrong\u2019s national and international exhibition record extends over a period of more than 40 years. Her artist\u2019s books can be found in the collections of the Museum of Modern Art, New York, and the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, among others. Atrium commissions have focused on scientific phenomena and their interactions with the human condition. Armstrong currently lives and works in Birmingham, Alabama.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENancy Cohen\u003C\/strong\u003E has an M.F.A. from Columbia University and a B.F.A from Rochester Institute of Technology. Awards include a Pollock Krasner Foundation Grant, The Murry Reich Distinguished Artist Award and six fellowships from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Museum collections include the Asheville Art Museum, Memphis Brooks Museum, Montclair Museum, NJ State Museum, Smith College Museum, Tang Teaching Museum, Weatherspoon Art Gallery, Yale University Art Gallery and the Zimmerli Museum. Cohen has completed large scale paper installations for the Noyes Museum, the Katonah Museum, the Power Point Gallery at Duke University and New Jersey City University, The CODA Museum in the Netherlands and the NTCRI Museum of Craft Design in Taiwan. She lives in Jersey City, New Jersey.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHelen Hiebert\u003C\/strong\u003E is a Colorado artist who constructs installations, sculptures, films, artists\u2019 books and works in paper using handmade paper as her primary medium. She teaches, lectures and exhibits her work internationally and online, and is the author of several how-to books about papermaking and papercrafts. Helen has an extensive network of paper colleagues around the world and her interest in how things are made (from paper) keeps her up-to-date on current paper trends, which she writes about in her weekly blog called \u003Cem\u003EThe Sunday Paper\u003C\/em\u003E. She interviews papermakers and paper artists on her podcast \u003Cem\u003EPaper Talk\u003C\/em\u003E, and she holds an annual paper retreat and papermaking master classes in her Red Cliff studio.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ELegacies in Paper: Nancy Cohen, Sara Garden Armstrong, \u0026amp; Helen Hiebert\u003C\/em\u003E is on view at the Robert C. Williams Museum of Papermaking, September 4, 2025, through January 30, 2026. The exhibit brings together the work of three artists who have incorporated hand papermaking into their artistic practices for years. Nancy Cohen, Sara Garden Armstrong, and Helen Hiebert each describe a formative period of searching for versatile materials with the ability to take on the qualities required for two and three-dimensional work; could mimic textures of nature and the body; and could facilitate installation work of various scales. Individually, each artist found that the unique medium of hand papermaking could be transformed to encompass their visions, and it quickly became integral to their artwork.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Legacies in Paper showcases artwork by Nancy Cohen, Sara Garden Armstrong, and Helen Hiebert"}],"uid":"30829","created_gmt":"2025-09-06 17:41:12","changed_gmt":"2025-12-04 20:01:33","author":"Virginia Howell","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-09-06T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-09-06T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677937":{"id":"677937","type":"image","title":"RCW Legacies","body":"\u003Cp\u003EFire Balloon by Nancy Cohen\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1757180108","gmt_created":"2025-09-06 17:35:08","changed":"1757180321","gmt_changed":"2025-09-06 17:38:41","alt":"Abstract design in yellows, blue, orange and pink on a puckered blue and white background. ","file":{"fid":"261894","name":"Nancy-Cohen_Fire-Balloon_83x61in.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/06\/Nancy-Cohen_Fire-Balloon_83x61in.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/06\/Nancy-Cohen_Fire-Balloon_83x61in.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":2100362,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/06\/Nancy-Cohen_Fire-Balloon_83x61in.jpg?itok=bjS4imvL"}}},"media_ids":["677937"],"groups":[{"id":"372221","name":"Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI)"}],"categories":[{"id":"42941","name":"Art Research"},{"id":"194568","name":"Arts and Performance"},{"id":"42901","name":"Community"},{"id":"42921","name":"Exhibitions"},{"id":"42891","name":"Georgia Tech Arts"}],"keywords":[{"id":"168606","name":"Robert C. Williams Museum of Papermaking"},{"id":"168495","name":"art exhibition"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39491","name":"Renewable Bioproducts"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EJerushia Graham\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003Eoffice: 404-894-7821\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:jerushia@gatech.edu\u0022\u003Ejerushia@gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["jerushia.graham@rbi.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"678432":{"#nid":"678432","#data":{"type":"news","title":"RBI Initiative Lead Profile: Zhaohui (Julene) Tong","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.research.gatech.edu\/zhaohui-julene-tong\u0022\u003EZhaohui (Julene) Tong\u003C\/a\u003E is an associate professor in the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.chbe.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E at Georgia Tech and leads the waste valorization in food-energy-water initiative at the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.research.gatech.edu\/rbi\u0022\u003ERenewable Bioproducts Institute\u003C\/a\u003E. Her research addresses challenges in the interdisciplinary fields of bioresource engineering and sustainable chemistry, focusing on developing innovative technologies for producing chemicals, materials, energy, and fuels from renewable resources.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETong\u2019s current research interests include functional biomaterials for a high-efficiency circular economy, platform chemicals and hydrocarbon fuels from renewable resources, sustainable process control and modeling, nano-biomaterial synthesis and self-assembly, and polymer degradation and recycling.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShe earned her bachelor\u2019s degree in chemical engineering from Changsha University of Science and Technology in China and her doctoral degree in chemical engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology. Her research spans multiple disciplines, including materials, nanotechnology, energy, and sustainability.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBelow is a brief Q\u0026amp;A with Tong, where she discusses her research focus areas and how they contribute to maximizing the waste valorization in the food-energy-water initiative at Georgia Tech.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat is your field of expertise and at what point in your life did you first become interested in this area?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMy expertise lies in sustainable materials and catalytical conversion, with a focus on transforming abundant and low-cost bioresources into functional biomaterials, biochemicals, and biofuels. Driven by a strong desire to conduct meaningful research, I aim to contribute to advancements in human health, food security, and environmental sustainability, addressing critical issues such as climate change, water scarcity, and the circular economy.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat questions or challenges sparked your current renewable bioproducts research? What are the big issues facing your research area right now?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe current economy faces significant challenges, including depleting resources, expensive raw materials, energy-intensive processes, and severe environmental impacts. Research in renewable bioproducts is crucial for addressing these issues. However, renewable bioproducts are still not competitive with petroleum-based products. Therefore, it is of paramount importance to minimize energy and material input during the processing and maximize product value without compromising environmental health.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat interests you the most in leading the research initiative on waste valorization in food-energy-water? Why is your initiative important to the development of Georgia Tech\u2019s Renewable Bioproducts research strategy?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI am interested in valorizing low-cost and underutilized biomass waste (lignocellulose, lignin, hemicellulose, etc.) into value-added functional products for applications in the food, water, and energy sectors, such as bio-based membranes for contaminant removal and detection. My initiative aims to build connections among multidisciplinary experts from chemical engineering, environmental engineering, agricultural engineering, industrial and systems engineering, and other fields. Polymer chemistry, nanotechnology, and data science all play roles in achieving our goal. My research topic aligns very well with RBI\u2019s central strategic research areas, including the development of a bioeconomy, industrial decarbonization, and sustainable development goals.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat are the broader global and social benefits of the research you and your team conduct on waste valorization in food-energy-water \u0026nbsp;initiative?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe work on increasing the value of bio-based waste for bioproducts to provide clean water, improve food security, and minimize energy input. First, this promotes the efficient use of biomass resources and minimizes waste generation to form a circular economy. Second, it contributes to industrial decarbonization by providing alternative, renewable sources of energy and materials. Third, the utilization of bio-based waste supports several aspects of sustainable development by simultaneously addressing challenges such as waste variability, technological limitations, and economic viability.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat are your plans for engaging a wider Georgia Tech faculty pool with the broader renewable bioproducts community?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI plan to leverage symposia from RBI and other sources, as well as existing sustainable centers like the Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems, social events, and established networks. Additionally, I will reach out to other faculty through collaborations on integrated proposals from RBI and external sources.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat are your hobbies?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn my leisure time, I enjoy baking and cooking. I also enjoy traveling with my family.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWho has influenced you the most?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI have been influenced by several of my professors during my undergraduate and graduate studies and my first department chair at the University of Florida. Their continuous encouragement and support have been instrumental in shaping my academic career in sustainable chemistry and engineering.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.research.gatech.edu\/zhaohui-julene-tong\u0022\u003EZhaohui (Julene) Tong\u003C\/a\u003E is an associate professor in the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.chbe.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E at Georgia Tech and leads the waste valorization in food-energy-water initiative at the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.research.gatech.edu\/rbi\u0022\u003ERenewable Bioproducts Institute\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;This is a brief Q\u0026amp;A with Tong, where she discusses her research focus areas and how they contribute to maximizing the waste valorization in the food-energy-water initiative at Georgia Tech.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Zhaohui (Julene) Tong is an associate professor in the School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at Georgia Tech and leads the waste valorization in food-energy-water initiative at the Renewable Bioproducts Institute. "}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2024-11-13 22:07:44","changed_gmt":"2025-12-02 05:19:01","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2024-11-13T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2024-11-13T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"675633":{"id":"675633","type":"image","title":"julene tong2.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;Julene Tong, Associate Professor and RBI\u0027s Lead for the Waste Valorization in Food-Energy-Water Initiative \u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1731535837","gmt_created":"2024-11-13 22:10:37","changed":"1731535837","gmt_changed":"2024-11-13 22:10:37","alt":"Portrait of Julene Tong, Associate Professor and RBI Initiative Lead","file":{"fid":"259278","name":"julene tong2.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2024\/11\/13\/julene%20tong2.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2024\/11\/13\/julene%20tong2.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":450425,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2024\/11\/13\/julene%20tong2.jpg?itok=A0o83ktc"}}},"media_ids":["675633"],"groups":[{"id":"372221","name":"Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI)"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39491","name":"Renewable Bioproducts"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ENews Contact: \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EPriya Devarajan\u003C\/a\u003E || RBI Communications Program Manager\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"681492":{"#nid":"681492","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Beril Toktay to Lead Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EFollowing a nationwide search, Julia Kubanek, vice president for Interdisciplinary Research at Georgia Tech, has named \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/beril-toktay\u0022\u003EBeril Toktay\u003C\/a\u003E as the executive director of the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sustainable.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems\u003C\/a\u003E (BBISS). Toktay has served as BBISS interim executive director since September 2022.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cAs interim executive director, Beril has built the BBISS community, broadened its scope, and developed new programming to grow cross-disciplinary collaboration, community-engaged research, and entrepreneurship,\u201d Kubanek said. \u201cFaculty and students from the liberal arts, social sciences, design, business, computing, and fundamental science are engaging with BBISS in greater numbers, complementing our engineering community\u2019s involvement. These are areas of strength at Georgia Tech that will help amplify the impact of BBISS.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToktay is professor of operations management, the Brady Family Chair, and Regents\u0027 Professor at the Scheller College of Business. She is an internationally recognized sustainable operations management scholar whose work has been recognized with multiple best paper awards. She is a Distinguished Fellow of the INFORMS Manufacturing \u0026amp; Service Operations Management (MSOM)Society. Through initiatives such as the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.drawdownga.org\/initiative\/drawdown-georgia-business-compact\/\u0022\u003EDrawdown Georgia Business Compact\u003C\/a\u003E, she has helped translate research insights into actionable business initiatives while fostering regional economic development.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHer academic leadership includes serving as department co-editor for \u201cHealth, Environment, and Society\u201d for \u003Cem\u003EMSOM\u003C\/em\u003E, area editor for \u201cEnvironment, Energy, and Sustainability\u201d at \u003Cem\u003EOperations Research\u003C\/em\u003E, and special issue co-editor on \u201cBusiness and Climate Change\u201d for \u003Cem\u003EManagement Science,\u003C\/em\u003E as well as\u003Cem\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/em\u003E\u201cEnvironment\u201d for \u003Cem\u003EMSOM.\u003C\/em\u003E She serves on the board of the Alliance for Research on Corporate Sustainability and the board of directors of the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/nyclimateexchange.org\/\u0022\u003ENew York Climate Exchange\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToktay has been instrumental in advancing sustainability at Georgia Tech, serving as founding faculty director of the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.scheller.gatech.edu\/centers-and-initiatives\/ray-c-anderson-center-for-sustainable-business\/index.html\u0022\u003ERay C. Anderson Center for Sustainable Business\u003C\/a\u003E, co-architect of the Serve-Learn-Sustain initiative, and co-chair of the Sustainability Next Institute Strategic Plan Implementation Task Force. Her commitment to Ph.D. student success earned her the 2018 Georgia Tech Outstanding Doctoral Thesis Advisor Award. She also co-developed the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.carbonreductionchallenge.org\/\u0022\u003ECarbon Reduction Challenge\u003C\/a\u003E, an award-winning interdisciplinary, co-curricular program that engages undergraduate students in climate intrapreneurship.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToktay holds a Ph.D. in operations research from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, an M.S. in industrial engineering from Purdue University, and a B.S. in industrial engineering and mathematics from Bo\u011fazi\u00e7i University. She joined Georgia Tech in 2005 after serving as faculty at INSEAD business school in Fontainebleau, France.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESince assuming the interim role, Toktay has significantly strengthened BBISS by expanding the faculty leadership team, securing additional funding, establishing seed grant programs that have benefited over 100 researchers across all Colleges, and transforming the Center for Serve-Learn-Sustain into the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scre.research.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ECenter for Sustainable Communities Research and Education\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022Energy and sustainability continue to be top Georgia Tech research priorities, for which we will need new funding strategies,\u0022 said Tim Lieuwen, executive vice president for Research. \u0022Philanthropy and business partnerships will grow in importance in the coming years. Beril has considerable experience and vision for maximizing these partnerships, which will serve BBISS and the Institute well into the future.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems is one of Georgia Tech\u2019s interdisciplinary research institutes. The vision of BBISS is to grow and mobilize Georgia Tech\u2019s knowledge assets \u2014 people and research \u2014 to create a sustainable future for all. BBISS is a key partner in the implementation of Georgia Tech\u2019s\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sustain.gatech.edu\/sustainabilitynext-plan#:~:text=Connecting%20Georgia%20Tech\u0026amp;apos;s%20education%2C%20research,United%20Nations%20Sustainable%20Development%20Goals.%E2%80%9D\u0022\u003ESustainability Next 2023-2030 Strategic Plan\u003C\/a\u003E, a consensus road map to advance Georgia Tech\u2019s vision to address the biggest local, national, and global challenges of our time. BBISS relentlessly serves the public good, catalyzes high-impact research, develops exceptional leaders, and cultivates partnerships that translate knowledge into practice.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022I\u0027m honored to lead BBISS and build on the momentum we\u0027ve created to date,\u201d Toktay said. \u201cOur vision is to maximize the collective impact of Georgia Tech\u0027s remarkable sustainability research community across all colleges and disciplines. By catalyzing collaborative research and connecting our faculty with key external partners and communities, we are positioning Georgia Tech to be a global thought leader in sustainability and to drive meaningful solutions to some of our most pressing environmental and social challenges.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe campus community is invited to a reception celebrating Toktay\u0027s appointment on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. at the Collective Food Hall in the Coda building. Contact \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:susan.ryan@sustain.gatech.edu\u0022\u003ESusan Ryan\u003C\/a\u003E for details.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EFollowing a nationwide search, Julia Kubanek, vice president for Interdisciplinary Research at Georgia Tech, has named \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/beril-toktay\u0022\u003EBeril Toktay\u003C\/a\u003E as the executive director of the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sustainable.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems\u003C\/a\u003E (BBISS). Toktay has served as BBISS interim executive director since September 2022.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The interdisciplinary research institute is poised for growth and innovation with Beril Toktay as executive director."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2025-04-01 14:56:54","changed_gmt":"2025-12-02 05:09:52","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-04-01T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-04-01T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"675104":{"id":"675104","type":"image","title":"Beril Toktay video","body":"\u003Cp\u003EBeril Toktay\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1727280819","gmt_created":"2024-09-25 16:13:39","changed":"1727280998","gmt_changed":"2024-09-25 16:16:38","alt":"Beril Toktay","file":{"fid":"258697","name":"beril-toktay-sbi2.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2024\/09\/25\/beril-toktay-sbi2.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2024\/09\/25\/beril-toktay-sbi2.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":110803,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2024\/09\/25\/beril-toktay-sbi2.jpg?itok=FcMSVQF4"}}},"media_ids":["675104"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"87921","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"},{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"},{"id":"2813","name":"Beril Toktay"},{"id":"193980","name":"Executive Director Search"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"188020","name":"go-rbi"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39491","name":"Renewable Bioproducts"},{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Research Communications Program Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"682403":{"#nid":"682403","#data":{"type":"news","title":"How the US Can Mine Its Own Critical Minerals \u2014 Without Digging New Holes","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EEvery time you use your phone, open your computer or listen to your favorite music on AirPods, you are relying on critical minerals.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese materials are the tiny building blocks powering modern life. From lithium, cobalt, nickel and graphite in batteries to gallium in telecommunication systems that enable constant connectivity, critical minerals act as the essential vitamins of modern technology: small in volume but vital to function.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYet the U.S. depends heavily on imports \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.3133\/mcs2025\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Efor most critical materials\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E. In 2024 the U.S. imported 80% of \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/what-are-rare-earths-crucial-elements-in-modern-technology-4-questions-answered-101364\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Erare earth elements\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E it used, 100% of gallium and natural graphite, and 48% to 76% of lithium, nickel and cobalt, to name a few.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/news.gatech.edu\/news\/2025\/05\/06\/how-us-can-mine-its-own-critical-minerals-without-digging-new-holes\u0022\u003ERead more \u00bb\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EEvery time you use your phone, open your computer or listen to your favorite music on AirPods, you are relying on critical minerals.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese materials are the tiny building blocks powering modern life. From lithium, cobalt, nickel and graphite in batteries to gallium in telecommunication systems that enable constant connectivity, critical minerals act as the essential vitamins of modern technology: small in volume but vital to function.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Every time you use your phone, open your computer or listen to your favorite music on AirPods, you are relying on critical minerals."}],"uid":"27255","created_gmt":"2025-05-14 23:05:27","changed_gmt":"2025-12-02 05:07:50","author":"Josie Giles","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-05-06T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-05-06T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677075":{"id":"677075","type":"image","title":"earth-oxides.jpg","body":null,"created":"1747263943","gmt_created":"2025-05-14 23:05:43","changed":"1747263943","gmt_changed":"2025-05-14 23:05:43","alt":"Piles of rare earth oxides praseodymium, cerium, lanthanum, neodymium, samarium and gadolinium. Peggy Greb\/USDA-ARS","file":{"fid":"260939","name":"earth-oxides.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/05\/14\/earth-oxides.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/05\/14\/earth-oxides.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":248936,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/05\/14\/earth-oxides.jpg?itok=K3NXnrHM"}}},"media_ids":["677075"],"groups":[{"id":"372221","name":"Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188020","name":"go-rbi"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39491","name":"Renewable Bioproducts"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"682651":{"#nid":"682651","#data":{"type":"news","title":"RBI\u2019s Annual Workshop Fosters Collaboration, Innovation for Pulp and Paper Manufacturing","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/rbi\u0022\u003ERenewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI)\u003C\/a\u003E \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/rbi\/2025-spring-workshop\u0022\u003E2025 Spring Workshop\u003C\/a\u003E, held May 12\u201313, brought together leading researchers, industry professionals and students to explore innovations in pulp and paper manufacturing. Hosted at the Kendeda Building and the Paper Tricentennial Building, the event opened with remarks from\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.chbe.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/j-carson-meredith\u0022\u003ECarson Meredith\u003C\/a\u003E, RBI executive director, and featured presentations on energy and resource efficiency, carbon accounting and competitiveness.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHighlights included talks on membrane separations, electrochemical processing and low-carbon fuels, with contributions from experts such as\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/chris-luettgen\u0022\u003EChris Luettgen\u003C\/a\u003E, Jose Gonzalez,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.chbe.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/sankar-nair\u0022\u003ESankar Nair\u003C\/a\u003E,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/faculty\/hatzell\u0022\u003EMarta Hatzell\u003C\/a\u003E and Dave Beck.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EInsights from the 2025 RBI Spring Workshop\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERevolutionizing Kraft Pulping with Graphene Oxide Membranes\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s rGO membrane technology is transforming the kraft pulping process. These membranes enable efficient black liquor dewatering, organic acid recovery and lignin fractionation\u2014leading to significant energy savings, water recycling and new revenue streams from bioproducts.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENorth America\u2019s Dual Challenge: High Emissions, High Opportunity\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EWhile North America remains a pulp and paper powerhouse (15% of global capacity), it also has one of the highest carbon intensities. This presents both a challenge and an opportunity to lead in emissions reduction through asset renewal and innovation.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBiogenic CO\u2082: From Emission to Asset\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EKraft pulp mills emit large volumes of biogenic CO\u2082\u2014an untapped resource. With carbon capture and utilization (CCUS), mills could generate up to $300 million annually in carbon removal credits, turning emissions into economic value.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIntegrated Biorefineries: The Future of Pulp Mills\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EThe vision for pulp mills is evolving\u2014from single-product facilities to multi-product biorefineries. Innovations like lignin-based materials, organic acid conversion to biofuels and advanced nanofiltration are paving the way for circular use of carbon in manufacturing.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDecarbonization Is a Strategic Imperative\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EWith increasing regulatory and consumer pressure, especially from global brands targeting Scope 3 emissions, pulp and paper producers must act. Embracing technologies like rGO membranes and CCUS is not just sustainable\u2014it\u2019s essential for competitiveness.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EElectrochemical Carbon Capture and Conversion for On-Site Fuel Production\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/faculty\/hatzell\u0022\u003EHatzell\u003C\/a\u003E\u2019s lab is pioneering the use of bipolar membrane (BPM) electrolysis to convert captured carbon (from bicarbonate solutions) into valuable fuels like CO and H\u2082. This approach enables:\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E100% carbon utilization with more than 70% Faradaic efficiency for CO production.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIntegration with pulp and paper processes to valorize CO\u2082 emissions instead of storing them.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EUse of acid-stable single-atom nickel catalysts to improve selectivity and efficiency.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe PAPER-ZERO Initiative\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EThis initiative explores transformative pathways to decarbonize the pulp and paper industry by:\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEvaluating scenarios that eliminate combustion of black liquor and waste wood.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EInvestigating renewable energy integration and alternative uses for black liquor.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAssessing the cost, energy and environmental trade-offs of emerging technologies.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe workshop also featured a\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/2025-05\/RBI%20Fellows%20Poster%20Session%20May%2012%202025.pdf\u0022\u003Estudent poster session\u003C\/a\u003E, networking opportunities and updates on APPTI collaborative projects. The event concluded with a meeting of the RBI Industry Advisory Board, reinforcing the institute\u2019s role as a hub for partnership and innovation in renewable bioproducts.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe\u2019re grateful to our industry member partners for sharing their time and expertise,\u201d said\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/belinda-vogel\u0022\u003EBelinda Vogel,\u003C\/a\u003E research engagement manager. \u201cThe advisory board meeting highlighted how essential collaboration is in advancing basic science and renewable bioproduct manufacturing.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/rbi\u0022\u003ERenewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI)\u003C\/a\u003E \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/rbi\/2025-spring-workshop\u0022\u003E2025 Spring Workshop\u003C\/a\u003E, held May 12\u201313, brought together leading researchers, industry professionals and students to explore innovations in pulp and paper manufacturing. Hosted at the Kendeda Building and the Paper Tricentennial Building, the event opened with remarks from\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.chbe.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/j-carson-meredith\u0022\u003ECarson Meredith\u003C\/a\u003E, RBI executive director, and featured presentations on energy and resource efficiency, carbon accounting and competitiveness.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Researchers and Industry Partner for Efficiency"}],"uid":"36695","created_gmt":"2025-06-04 16:11:16","changed_gmt":"2025-12-02 04:53:42","author":"jmartin482","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-05-25T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-05-25T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"groups":[{"id":"372221","name":"Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI)"}],"categories":[{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"188020","name":"go-rbi"},{"id":"2106","name":"Paper"},{"id":"130851","name":"paper and pulp"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39491","name":"Renewable Bioproducts"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":["jennifer.martin@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"685583":{"#nid":"685583","#data":{"type":"news","title":"BBISS Announces 2025 Sustainability Next Seed Grant Recipients","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe 2025 round of\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sustain.gatech.edu\/sustainability-next-plan\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESustainability Next\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;Research Seed Grants has been awarded to 17 transdisciplinary research teams representing a vibrant network of 51 collaborators from across Georgia Tech. These teams span 21 unique units from six of the seven Colleges, including Schools, research centers, and Interdisciplinary Research Institutes.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe seed grant program, administered by the Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems (BBISS), reaches many faculty members from a diverse array of disciplines due to the generous support provided by broad-based partnerships in addition to the Sustainability Next funds. This year\u2019s partners are\u0026nbsp;the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/provost.gatech.edu\/news\/georgia-tech-arts-initiative-four-years-later\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EGeorgia Tech Arts Initiative\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sustainable.gatech.edu\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EBBISS\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.bme.gatech.edu\/bme\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EWalter H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ce.gatech.edu\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ESchool of Civil and Environmental Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/design.gatech.edu\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ECollege of Design\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/planning.gatech.edu\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ESchool of City and Regional Planning\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scs.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Computer Science\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.scheller.gatech.edu\/centers-and-initiatives\/ray-c-anderson-center-for-sustainable-business\/index.html\u0022\u003ERay C. Anderson Center for Sustainable Business\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EEnergy Policy and Innovation Center\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/bio\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EParker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/matter-systems.gatech.edu\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EInstitute for Matter and Systems\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/ipat\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EInstitute for People and Technology\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/robotics\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EInstitute for Robotics and Intelligent Machines\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/energy.gatech.edu\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EStrategic Energy Institute\u003C\/a\u003E, and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scre.research.gatech.edu\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ECenter for Sustainable Communities Research and Education\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe goal of the program is to nurture promising research areas for future large-scale collaborative sustainability research, research translation, and\/or high-impact outreach; to provide mid-career faculty with leadership and community-building opportunities; and to broaden and strengthen the Georgia Tech sustainability community as a whole. The call for proposals was modeled after the Office of the Executive Vice President for Research\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/seed-grant-funding-teams-grants\u0022\u003EMoving Teams Forward and Forming Teams programs\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELooking ahead, BBISS will support and nurture these projects in collaboration with the relevant funding partners. Beginning in October, BBISS will host a series of focused workshops designed to foster collaboration and provide additional support to help advance these initiatives. Projects have been grouped into five thematic clusters, each of which will be the focus of an upcoming workshop:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECircularity Programs\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAdaptation to the Changing Environment\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECommunity Engagement and Education\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EClimate Science and Solutions\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEnvironmental and Health Impacts\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBBISS faculty fellows, past seed grant recipients, and other interested Georgia Tech faculty are invited to participate. If you are interested in participating in the workshops, please email \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:kristin.janacek@gatech.edu\u0022\u003Ekristin.janacek@gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E. The \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/bbiss-seed-grant-workshop-circularity\u0022\u003Efirst session on Circularity Programs\u003C\/a\u003E is Oct. 16 at 1 p.m. in the Peachtree Room (3rd floor) of the John Lewis Student Center.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe 2025 Sustainability Next Seed Grant awards are:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EForming Teams:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EDeveloping a Sustainable and Ethical Electric Vehicle Ecosystem Workforce for the Future Through Cross-Sector Partnerships. Principal Investigators (PI): \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/joe-f-bozeman-iii\u0022\u003EJoe Bozeman\u003C\/a\u003E. Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI): \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/jennifer-hirsch\u0022\u003EJennifer Hirsch\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EUnlocking Circularity at Scale: Platform-Based Solutions for Advancing Material Reuse and Supply Chain Resilience. Principal Investigator: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.scheller.gatech.edu\/directory\/faculty\/ceccagnoli\/index.html\u0022\u003EMarco Ceccagnoli\u003C\/a\u003E. Co-PIs: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/matthew-realff\u0022\u003EMatthew Realff\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/patricia-stathatou\u0022\u003EPatricia Stathatou\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/christos-e-athanasiou\u0022\u003EChristos Athanasiou\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EOpenGUARD: Geospatial Utility Aggregations with Robust Differential Privacy. PI: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/arch.gatech.edu\/people\/patrick-kastner\u0022\u003EPatrick Kastner\u003C\/a\u003E. Co-PI: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/juba-ziani\u0022\u003EJuba Ziani\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ERegenerative Framework: A Transdisciplinary Model for Urban Climate Resilience and Soil Health. PI: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/jenny-mcguire\u0022\u003EJenny McGuire\u003C\/a\u003E. Co-PI: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/nicole-kennard\u0022\u003ENicole Kennard\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EGuiding Transportation With Community Action Through Research, Education, and Service (GT-CARES). PI: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/planning.gatech.edu\/people\/rounaq-basu\u0022\u003ERounaq Basu\u003C\/a\u003E. Co-PIs: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scre.research.gatech.edu\/ruthie-yow\u0022\u003ERuthie Yow\u003C\/a\u003E,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ce.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/sofia-perez-guzman\u0022\u003E Sof\u00eda P\u00e9rez-Guzm\u00e1n\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ctl.gatech.edu\/rebecca-watts-hull-phd\/\u0022\u003ERebecca Watts Hull\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECo-optimizing Design and Coordination for Sustainable Multi-Robot Construction. PI: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/edvard-pg-bruun\u0022\u003EEdvard Bruun\u003C\/a\u003E. Co-PI: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.cc.gatech.edu\/people\/harish-ravichandar\u0022\u003EHarish Ravichanda\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECampus as Material Ecology: Building Transdisciplinary Circular Systems for Plastic Tracking, Transformation, and Community Engagement. PI: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/arch.gatech.edu\/people\/hyojin-kwon\u0022\u003EHyojin Kwon\u003C\/a\u003E. Co-PIs: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/michael-best\u0022\u003EMichael Best\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/russ-clark\u0022\u003ERuss Clark\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/tim-trent\u0022\u003ETim Trent\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/meisha-shofner\u0022\u003EMeisha Shofner\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESonifying Climate Infrastructures: Community Outreach and Education With Shade Synthesizer. PI: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/iac.gatech.edu\/people\/person\/624a4663-6439-585b-8bb0-3633dbbf089f\u0022\u003EHeidi Biggs\u003C\/a\u003E. Co-PIs: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/clint-zeagler\u0022\u003EClint Zeagler\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/music.gatech.edu\/people\/alexandria-smith\u0022\u003EAlexandria Smith\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBuilding a Georgia Tech Research Partnership for Community-Based Food System Resilience. PI: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.isye.gatech.edu\/users\/johannes-milz\u0022\u003EJohannes Milz\u003C\/a\u003E. Co-PIs: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.isye.gatech.edu\/users\/xin-chen\u0022\u003EXin Chen\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/ingeborg-rocker\u0022\u003EInge Rocker\u003C\/a\u003E,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ce.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/sofia-perez-guzman\u0022\u003E Sof\u00eda P\u00e9rez-Guzm\u00e1n\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/nicole-kennard\u0022\u003ENicole Kennard\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMoving Teams Forward:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAre Data Centers the New Landfills? Social, Economic, and Environmental Tradeoffs. PI: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/allen-hyde\u0022\u003EAllen Hyde\u003C\/a\u003E. Co-PIs: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/josiah-hester\u0022\u003EJosiah Hester\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.ic.gatech.edu\/people\/cindy-kaiying-lin\u0022\u003ECindy Lin\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/nicole-kennard\u0022\u003ENicole Kennard\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/joe-f-bozeman-iii\u0022\u003EJoe Bozeman\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/planning.gatech.edu\/people\/elora-lee-raymond\u0022\u003EElora Raymond\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/anthony-harding\u0022\u003ETony Harding\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ae.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/jung-ho-lewe\u0022\u003EJung-Ho Lewe\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EGame-Based Learning in Energy Systems: A Rigorous Evaluation of Current Crisis. PI: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.cc.gatech.edu\/people\/jessica-roberts\u0022\u003EJessica Roberts\u003C\/a\u003E. Co-PI: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/dan-molzahn\u0022\u003EDaniel Molzahn\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EStrategic Application of Antibiotic-Independent Therapy to Treat Coral Disease Outbreaks. PI: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/biosciences.gatech.edu\/people\/lauren%20speare\u0022\u003ELauren Speare\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAdvancing Water Reuse Through Research, Education, and Community Partnerships in Atlanta, Georgia. PI: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/katherine-graham\u0022\u003EKatherine Graham\u003C\/a\u003E. Co-PIs: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ctl.gatech.edu\/amanda-nolen-ph-d\/\u0022\u003EAmanda Nolen\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/iac.gatech.edu\/people\/person\/yeqingkong\u0022\u003EYeqing Kong\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAssessing the Accuracy and Reliability of Low-Cost Particulate Matter (PM) Sensors Across Diverse Ambient Environments. PI: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/nga-lee-sally-ng\u0022\u003ENga Lee (Sally) Ng\u003C\/a\u003E. Co-PI: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/armistead-russell\u0022\u003ETed Russell\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EDeveloping a Georgia Community Center Into a Sustainability Hub. PI: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/ashutosh-dhekne\u0022\u003EAshutosh Dhekne\u003C\/a\u003E, Co-PIs: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/umakishore-ramachandran\u0022\u003EUmakishore Ramachandran\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/danielle-willkens\u0022\u003EDanielle Willkens\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scre.research.gatech.edu\/ruthie-yow\u0022\u003ERuthie Yow\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EWhat, When, Where of Air Pollution: PM2.5 and How It Impacts Health. PI: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/shuichi-takayama\u0022\u003EShuichi Takayama\u003C\/a\u003E. Co-PI: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/nga-lee-sally-ng\u0022\u003ENga Lee (Sally) Ng\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEnabling Communities to Baseline the Performance of Energy Systems. PI: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ae.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/jung-ho-lewe\u0022\u003EJung-Ho Lewe\u003C\/a\u003E. Co-PIs: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/scott-duncan\u0022\u003EScott Duncan\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ae.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/david-solano-sarmiento\u0022\u003EDavid Solano Sarmiento\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/danielle-willkens\u0022\u003EDanielle Willkens\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scre.research.gatech.edu\/anna-tinoco-santiago\u0022\u003EAnna Tinoco-Santiago\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis round of funding was highly competitive, with 45 proposals submitted. BBISS extends its gratitude to all the individuals and groups who applied, as well as to the faculty and staff who contributed their time and expertise to evaluate the proposals.\u0026nbsp;Their thoughtful input was essential to achieving a fair and collaborative selection process, ensuring that the awarded proposals align strongly with the BBISS\u2019 strategy and show promise for long-term impact and future research opportunities.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAccording to BBISS Executive Director Beril Toktay, and Brady Family Chair in Management, \u201cThe high level of participation demonstrates the enduring commitment to sustainability research and engagement by the Georgia Tech community. BBISS honors this commitment by looking for collaboration opportunities with all who are driving sustainability efforts at Georgia Tech.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe 2025 round of\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sustain.gatech.edu\/sustainability-next-plan\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESustainability Next\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;Research Seed Grants has been awarded to 17 transdisciplinary research teams representing a vibrant network of 51 collaborators from across Georgia Tech. These teams span 21 unique units from six of the seven Colleges, including Schools, research centers, and Interdisciplinary Research Institutes.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The seed grant program reaches many faculty members from a diverse array of disciplines due to the generous support provided by broad-based partnerships in addition to the Sustainability Next funds."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2025-10-07 19:51:05","changed_gmt":"2025-12-02 04:32:49","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-10-07T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-10-07T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"671777":{"id":"671777","type":"image","title":"Sustainability Next Plan document","body":"\u003Cp\u003ECover of the Sustainability Next Plan\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n","created":"1695304278","gmt_created":"2023-09-21 13:51:18","changed":"1695304423","gmt_changed":"2023-09-21 13:53:43","alt":"cover of the 2023-2030 Sustainability Next Plan","file":{"fid":"254901","name":"1695303836419-983e452a-cef1-4503-8103-5a098471d512_1.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2023\/09\/21\/1695303836419-983e452a-cef1-4503-8103-5a098471d512_1.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2023\/09\/21\/1695303836419-983e452a-cef1-4503-8103-5a098471d512_1.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":183429,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2023\/09\/21\/1695303836419-983e452a-cef1-4503-8103-5a098471d512_1.jpg?itok=K6f7VHG1"}}},"media_ids":["671777"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"},{"id":"188020","name":"go-rbi"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39491","name":"Renewable Bioproducts"},{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Research Communications Program Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686604":{"#nid":"686604","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Clean, Old-Fashioned Collaboration: Engineering the Future of Healthcare at Georgia Tech and UGA","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EIf you\u2019ve lived in Georgia long enough, you\u2019ve almost certainly heard the friendly jabs tossed across divided Thanksgiving tables. On one side, a smirk and a mention of the \u201cNorth Avenue Trade School.\u201d On the other, a pointed retort: \u201cTo hell with Georgia.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EFew rivalries run deeper than the one known as \u201cClean, Old-Fashioned Hate,\u201d the annual showdown between Georgia Tech and the University of Georgia (UGA). On Friday afternoon, November 28, the two will face off in one of the most anticipated matchups in years. These teams don\u2019t like each other, and for a few hours every year, neither do friends, families, and even significant others.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EOff the field, however, the schools are proving that collaboration, not competition, is the schools\u2019 true strength.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EFor more than a century, Georgia\u2019s flagship universities have united around complementary strengths, tackling the state\u2019s biggest challenges together. That starts with making Georgians healthier.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cWhen Georgia Tech and UGA combine their strengths, together we create solutions that neither institution could achieve alone,\u201d said Tim Lieuwen, executive vice president for Research at Georgia Tech. \u201cThese collaborations accelerate innovation in healthcare, improve lives across our state, and demonstrate that partnership \u2014 not rivalry \u2014 is Georgia\u2019s most powerful tradition.\u0022\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cThe common denominator between these two great institutions is the populations they serve,\u201d said Chris King, interim vice president for Research at UGA. \u201cWe have a duty to find solutions that help improve the quality of life for all Georgians, and that\u2019s what these partnerships are all about.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EFrom programs like the Georgia Clinical and Translational Science Alliance (Georgia CTSA) to the National Science Foundation\u2019s Engineering Research Center for Cell Manufacturing Technologies (CMaT), researchers at UGA and Georgia Tech are setting rivalries aside to build lasting partnerships that fuel innovation and expand the workforce to meet the state\u2019s needs.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPushing Cell Therapy Across the Goal Line\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ECMaT is an NSF-funded consortium of more than seven universities and 40 member companies. At Georgia Tech and UGA, teams are conducting many early stage translational projects to improve manufacturing of cell-based therapeutics.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EOne joint project between Andr\u00e9s Garc\u00eda, executive director of Georgia Tech\u2019s Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering \u0026amp; Bioscience, and John Peroni, the Dr. Steeve Giguere Memorial Professor in Large Animal Medicine in UGA\u2019s College of Veterinary Medicine, addresses treatment of bacterial infections that can follow bone repair surgeries.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EBone fractures and non-union defects often require surgical implants, but 1-5% are compromised by bacterial infection, costing hospitals more than $1.9 billion annually. Current treatments are limited to sustained, high doses of antibiotics, which are less effective and can generate antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Garc\u00eda and Peroni are engineering synthetic biomaterials that locally deliver antimicrobial agents to eliminate infections and promote bone repair.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ESteven Stice, D.W. Brooks Distinguished Professor and Georgia Research Alliance Eminent Scholar at UGA\u2019s Regenerative Bioscience Center, is also working with Georgia Tech\u2019s Andrei Fedorov, professor and Rae S. and Frank H. Neely Chair in the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, to improve the quality and control of producing natural, cell-derived healing materials for regenerative medicine.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EAdult cells secrete tiny, bubble-like vesicles that help other cells heal and regenerate tissue. Stice developed methods to boost vesicle production, while Fedorov created a probe that accelerates the process.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cCells simply don\u2019t secrete these healing vesicles in the quantities needed for scalable, clinical-grade treatments,\u201d said Stice, UGA lead and co-principal investigator for CMaT. \u201cOur collaborative work changes that, accelerating production in a way that finally makes large-scale regenerative therapies feasible.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cGeorgia Tech and UGA\u0027s collective commitment to advancing science and technology exceeds the intensity of our athletic rivalry,\u201d Fedorov said. \u201cTogether, we\u2019re advancing cell and therapy biomanufacturing to develop lifesaving treatments for the most devastating diseases.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s Francisco Robles and UGA\u2019s Lohitash Karumbaiah are using manufactured T cells to target cancer. Robles, who leads the Optical Imaging and Spectroscopy Lab in the Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, developed quantitative Oblique Back-illumination Microscopy (qOBM) to monitor tumor growth in real time. The method allows scientists to visualize patient-derived glioblastoma cell clusters generated in the Karumbaiah Lab, tracking tumor structure and behavior at various stages.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cAssessing therapeutic potency is often complex, costly, and ineffective for solid tumors,\u201d Karumbaiah said. \u201cqOBM simplifies the process by providing real-time, label-free monitoring of therapeutic efficacy against 3D solid tumors.\u201d \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EThe work could help doctors personalize cancer treatments by providing early, detailed signs of whether a therapy is working.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cThis technique is more compact and affordable and lets us watch T cells attack cell cultures in real time,\u201d Robles said. \u201cThis breakthrough could transform how we study disease and screen new treatments.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA Playbook for Local Healthcare\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ECreated in 2007 by the National Institutes of Health, Georgia CTSA is one of several NIH-funded national partnerships advancing new health therapeutics and practices. Since 2017, it has comprised UGA, Georgia Tech, Emory, and the Morehouse School of Medicine. The alliance\u2019s reach extends far beyond campus borders, bringing together researchers, clinicians, professional societies, and community and industry partners to identify local health challenges and translate research into practical solutions.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EAnd out of this alliance have come many collaborative studies among CTSA\u2019s members.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EOne, the Georgia Health Landscape Dashboard, is a tool to identify local health gaps and connect regional health professionals or policymakers with the researchers who can best address their community\u2019s challenges. UGA College of Family and Consumer Sciences Associate Professors Alison Berg and Dee Warmath, along with community health engagement coordinator Courtney Still Brown, are working with Georgia Tech\u2019s Jon Duke, director of the Center for Health Analytics and Informatics at the Georgia Tech Research Institute and a principal research scientist in the School of Interactive Computing.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EThe dashboard has already helped match researchers with communities by combining epidemiological data with \u201ccommunity voice\u201d insights through surveys of residents and local leaders.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EFor example, when examining diabetes data, the dashboard indicates Randolph County has the state\u2019s highest prevalence, despite declining by about 8% between 2021-24. Meanwhile, Treutlen County\u2019s rate increased 29.2% during the same period. Perhaps Treutlen\u2019s need for diabetic care is a growing concern, while Randolph\u2019s is being addressed. And perhaps Hancock County, which ranks diabetes its top priority in the community voice category, is in search of immediate solutions.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe Landscape Dashboard is a fantastic example of how the unique expertise found at Georgia Tech and UGA can be brought together to create something truly valuable for all Georgia,\u201d Duke said. \u201cBy bringing together a range of data sources and health analytics approaches, this collaboration has created a tool that delivers novel insights into health, community, and policy across the state.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ESupported by UGA Cooperative Extension and the Biomedical and Translational Sciences Institute, the project leverages a network of agents in every county across the state. Warmath said the project\u2019s strength lies in its ability to connect research with real-world needs.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cTo build a community-responsive ecosystem for biomedical research, scientists must recognize local needs, share progress with communities to foster trust and acceptance, recruit clinicians and industry partners, and strengthen the relationships between patient and caregiver,\u201d Warmath said.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETeaming Up for Maternal Health\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EWarmath and a team of researchers at UGA, Georgia Tech, and Emory are also collaborating on an NIH-funded project uniting experts in maternal health, biostatistics, and consumer science to explore how wearable technologies could improve delivery-room care.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EDuring childbirth, clinicians monitor countless maternal and fetal vitals \u2014 contractions, heart rates, oxygen levels, kidney function, and more. What new insights, the researchers asked, could advanced wearable technologies offer in the delivery room, and what barriers might prevent their use?\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EUsing nationwide surveys and focus groups, the team gathered information from a representative sample of pregnant, postpartum, and reproductive-age women, as well as healthcare professionals, to examine acceptance of wearable health technologies during labor and delivery. In their analysis of this rich data source, the team is identifying key variables that reveal gaps in technology acceptance and the unique needs of diverse maternal populations.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EEach partner institution brings unique expertise. At Emory, principal investigator Suchitra Chandrasekaran contributes clinical insights from direct patient care. At UGA, Warmath applies her knowledge in consumer science to analyze end-user motivation, attitudes, and behaviors. At Georgia Tech, experts like Sarah Farmer in the Center for Advanced Communications Policy\u2019s Home Lab facilitate large-scale data collection.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EWith data collection now complete, the team is analyzing results to inform future design and deployment of wearable technologies.\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cEach school has a different perspective,\u201d Farmer said. \u201cIt\u2019s not as simple as one school does this but doesn\u2019t do that. Each has their expertise, but they offer different perspectives and different resources that, when pooled, can make our research that much more effective.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EWhether advancing maternal health, mapping Georgia\u2019s health needs, or engineering next-generation therapies, UGA and Georgia Tech continue to prove that collaboration is Georgia\u2019s strongest tradition. Further, the undergraduate and graduate students who work in these labs and others represent the state\u2019s highly skilled workforce of tomorrow.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cWhen our institutions work together, Georgia wins,\u201d Warmath said.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u2014 \u003Cem\u003EBy David Mitchell\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech and UGA are teaming up to tackle big health challenges, from cancer and bone repair to maternal care and community health. By combining their strengths, these schools are turning research into real-world solutions that make life better for Georgians.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"By uniting expertise and resources, Georgia\u2019s leading institutions are creating practical solutions to improve health outcomes across the state."}],"uid":"28766","created_gmt":"2025-11-24 15:25:22","changed_gmt":"2025-11-24 19:33:14","author":"Shelley Wunder-Smith","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-11-24T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-11-24T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678711":{"id":"678711","type":"image","title":"Tim Lieuwen and Chris King","body":"\u003Cp\u003ETim Lieuwen and Chris King\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1763994958","gmt_created":"2025-11-24 14:35:58","changed":"1763999939","gmt_changed":"2025-11-24 15:58:59","alt":"A tall white man wearing a blue GT-branded polo standing next to a slightly shorter man wearing a UGA-branded red polo. They\u0027re smiling and both holding a football.","file":{"fid":"262778","name":"26-R10410-P61-003.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/24\/26-R10410-P61-003.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/24\/26-R10410-P61-003.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1760052,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/24\/26-R10410-P61-003.jpg?itok=mtg-lhnt"}},"678706":{"id":"678706","type":"image","title":"Andres Garcia","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAndr\u00e9s J. Garc\u00eda\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1763993719","gmt_created":"2025-11-24 14:15:19","changed":"1763999973","gmt_changed":"2025-11-24 15:59:33","alt":"A man in a white lab coat and glasses, with a gold tie","file":{"fid":"262772","name":"andres-garcia.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/24\/andres-garcia_1.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/24\/andres-garcia_1.png","mime":"image\/png","size":56117,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/24\/andres-garcia_1.png?itok=xiBVwOz6"}},"678707":{"id":"678707","type":"image","title":"John Peroni","body":"\u003Cp\u003EJohn Peroni\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1763993920","gmt_created":"2025-11-24 14:18:40","changed":"1763999994","gmt_changed":"2025-11-24 15:59:54","alt":"A man wearing teal surgical cloges and a green scrubs top, next to a light brown horse","file":{"fid":"262773","name":"JohnP24.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/24\/JohnP24.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/24\/JohnP24.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":148787,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/24\/JohnP24.jpg?itok=AO_9L5fk"}},"678709":{"id":"678709","type":"image","title":"The Dynamic Mass Spectrometry Probe developed to monitor the health of living cell cultures (photo credit: Rob Felt)","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Dynamic Mass Spectrometry Probe developed to monitor the health of living cell cultures (photo credit: Rob Felt)\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1763994556","gmt_created":"2025-11-24 14:29:16","changed":"1764000017","gmt_changed":"2025-11-24 16:00:17","alt":"The Dynamic Mass Spectrometry Probe developed to monitor the health of living cell cultures (photo credit: Rob Felt)","file":{"fid":"262776","name":"cell-quality-control-012.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/24\/cell-quality-control-012_0.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/24\/cell-quality-control-012_0.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":287024,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/24\/cell-quality-control-012_0.jpg?itok=eeMa9kOC"}},"678710":{"id":"678710","type":"image","title":"Sarah Farmer","body":"\u003Cp\u003ESarah Farmer\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1763994685","gmt_created":"2025-11-24 14:31:25","changed":"1764000040","gmt_changed":"2025-11-24 16:00:40","alt":"A smiling woman with long brown hair, wearing a black t-shirt and a floral cardigan","file":{"fid":"262777","name":"Sarah-Farmer.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/24\/Sarah-Farmer.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/24\/Sarah-Farmer.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":22508,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/24\/Sarah-Farmer.jpeg?itok=zrlUSoPs"}}},"media_ids":["678711","678706","678707","678709","678710"],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"138","name":"Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics"},{"id":"140","name":"Cancer Research"},{"id":"146","name":"Life Sciences and Biology"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"194611","name":"State Impact"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71891","name":"Health and Medicine"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EFor media inquiries:\u003Cbr\u003EAngela Bajaras Prendiville\u003Cbr\u003EDirector of Media Relations\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:media@gatech.edu\u0022\u003Emedia@gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686553":{"#nid":"686553","#data":{"type":"news","title":"New Energy Management Course Aims to Keep Georgia SMEs Competitive","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.scheller.gatech.edu\/centers-and-initiatives\/ray-c-anderson-center-for-sustainable-business\/index.html\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERay\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.scheller.gatech.edu\/centers-and-initiatives\/ray-c-anderson-center-for-sustainable-business\/index.html\u0022 rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E C. Anderson Center for Sustainable Business\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E (Center), in partnership with Georgia Tech Scheller College of Business Executive Education and the Georgia Manufacturing Extension Partnership at Georgia Tech, is launching an Energy Management and Reporting course designed specifically for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The course has been developed in response to a growing challenge: Large corporations increasingly need their suppliers to track and report energy and emissions data, yet many SMEs lack the resources and expertise to do so.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.scheller.gatech.edu\/news\/ray-c-anderson-center-for-sustainable-business\/acsb-new-energy-management-course.html\u0022\u003ERead more on the Scheller College of Business Newspage\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe free Energy Management and Reporting course, funded by GEFA, will help SMEs stay competitive through improved energy efficiency, cost savings, and the capacity to meet emerging reporting requirements.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The Ray C. Anderson Center for Sustainable Business, in partnership with Georgia Tech Scheller College of Business Executive Education and the Georgia Manufacturing Extension Partnership, is launching an Energy Management and Reporting course."}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2025-11-20 15:55:52","changed_gmt":"2025-11-20 15:55:52","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-11-11T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-11-11T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.scheller.gatech.edu\/news\/ray-c-anderson-center-for-sustainable-business\/acsb-new-energy-management-course.html","title":"Read Story on Scheller Newspage"}],"groups":[{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"131","name":"Economic Development and Policy"},{"id":"42911","name":"Education"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"194609","name":"Industry"},{"id":"194836","name":"Sustainability"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003Eacsb@scheller.gatech.edu\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686528":{"#nid":"686528","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Ranked No. 7 Globally in Interdisciplinary Science Rankings","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Institute of Technology has been ranked 7th in the world in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.timeshighereducation.com\/world-university-rankings\/interdisciplinary-science-rankings\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E2026 Times Higher Education Interdisciplinary Science Rankings\u003C\/a\u003E, in association with Schmidt Science Fellows. This designation underscores Georgia Tech\u2019s leadership in research that solves global challenges.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cInterdisciplinary research is at the heart of Georgia Tech\u2019s mission,\u201d said Tim Lieuwen, executive vice president for Research. \u201cOur faculty, students, and research teams work across disciplines to create transformative solutions in areas such as healthcare, energy, advanced manufacturing, and artificial intelligence. This ranking reflects the strength of our collaborative culture and the impact of our research on society.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs a top R1 research university, Georgia Tech is shaping the future of basic and applied research by pursuing inventive solutions to the world\u2019s most pressing problems. Whether discovering cancer treatments or developing new methods to power our communities, work at the Institute focuses on improving the human condition.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETeams from all seven Georgia Tech colleges, 11 interdisciplinary research institutes, the Georgia Tech Research Institute, Enterprise Innovation Institute, and hundreds of research labs and centers work together to transform ideas into \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/real-life\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Ereal results\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"The recognition highlights Tech\u2019s leadership in cross-disciplinary research that solves complex challenges."}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Institute of Technology has been ranked 7th in the world in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.timeshighereducation.com\/world-university-rankings\/interdisciplinary-science-rankings\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E2026 Times Higher Education Interdisciplinary Science Rankings\u003C\/a\u003E, in association with Schmidt Science Fellows. This designation underscores Georgia Tech\u2019s leadership in research that solves global challenges.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech has been ranked 7th in the world in the 2026 Times Higher Education Interdisciplinary Science Rankings"}],"uid":"27561","created_gmt":"2025-11-19 12:50:26","changed_gmt":"2025-11-20 14:07:38","author":"Angela Ayers","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-11-20T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-11-20T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678686":{"id":"678686","type":"image","title":"cancer-researchers.jpg","body":null,"created":"1763591127","gmt_created":"2025-11-19 22:25:27","changed":"1763591127","gmt_changed":"2025-11-19 22:25:27","alt":"Three Georgia Tech researchers working together in the lab on cancer research","file":{"fid":"262747","name":"cancer-researchers.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/19\/cancer-researchers.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/19\/cancer-researchers.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":96118,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/19\/cancer-researchers.jpg?itok=Xb8D05Lg"}}},"media_ids":["678686"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"},{"id":"155831","name":"Georgia Tech Manufacturing Institute (GTMI)"},{"id":"217141","name":"Georgia Tech Materials Institute"},{"id":"1276","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI)"},{"id":"545781","name":"Institute for Data Engineering and Science"},{"id":"197261","name":"Institute for Electronics and Nanotechnology"},{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"},{"id":"142761","name":"IRIM"},{"id":"1317","name":"News Briefs"},{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"372221","name":"Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"193655","name":"Artificial Intelligence at Georgia Tech"},{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"},{"id":"193658","name":"Commercialization"},{"id":"145171","name":"Cybersecurity"},{"id":"39431","name":"Data Engineering and Science"},{"id":"39451","name":"Electronics and Nanotechnology"},{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"193654","name":"Enterprise Innovation Institute"},{"id":"193653","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute"},{"id":"39461","name":"Manufacturing, Trade, and Logistics"},{"id":"39471","name":"Materials"},{"id":"193652","name":"Matter and Systems"},{"id":"39481","name":"National Security"},{"id":"193656","name":"Neuro Next Initiative"},{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"},{"id":"39511","name":"Public Service, Leadership, and Policy"},{"id":"39491","name":"Renewable Bioproducts"},{"id":"39521","name":"Robotics"},{"id":"193657","name":"Space Research Initiative"},{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"},{"id":"39541","name":"Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71871","name":"Campus and Community"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAngela Ayers\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["angela.ayers@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686536":{"#nid":"686536","#data":{"type":"news","title":"GTRI Launches Veterans Impact Page in Honor of National Veterans and Military Families Month","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ENovember is National Veterans and Military Families Month, a time when our nation pauses to recognize those who have worn the uniform and the families who have stood beside them.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt GTRI, this recognition is more than symbolic. Veterans are deeply woven into the fabric of who we are. Their experience strengthens our research, their leadership elevates our teams, and their sense of duty reinforces our mission to serve national security.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo honor their continued impact, GTRI has launched a \u003Cstrong\u003EGTRI Veterans Impact page, now live at \u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/usg02.safelinks.protection.office365.us\/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fgtri.gatech.edu%2Fveterans\u0026amp;data=05%7C02%7Cchristopher.weems%40gtri.gatech.edu%7C3ccaa57060ac446f766308de22d0f6c5%7Cb2b2cc37ea504f2a803b2368611460b8%7C0%7C0%7C638986478039895055%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C\u0026amp;sdata=1mahYwVUVHWuj2E0P%2FgH1OyldpgHgJXfvGNV86MSdbg%3D\u0026amp;reserved=0\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Egtri.gatech.edu\/veterans\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E.\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe page brings together the stories, contributions, and voices of veterans across our organization. It highlights why veterans are essential to GTRI\u2019s identity, how their service informs our culture, and how their insights help shape the technologies and tools that keep the warfighter safe.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELaunching this page during National Veterans and Military Families Month reinforces a core belief of GTRI: Supporting veterans is not a once-a-year activity. It is an everyday commitment that aligns naturally with our purpose, our projects, and the partnerships we build with our Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Space Force, and Pentagon sponsors.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo the veterans and families who contribute so much to our organization, thank you. Your service has driven your lives and careers. Here at GTRI, it also drives our mission.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWriter:\u0026nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EChristopher Weems\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"The new page is now live at gtri.gatech.edu\/veterans"}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ENovember is National Veterans and Military Families Month. To honor the continued impact of the military community at GTRI and beyond, we have\u0026nbsp;launched the GTRI Veterans Impact page, now live at gtri.gatech.edu\/veterans.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"To honor the continued impact of the military community at GTRI and beyond, we have\u00a0launched the GTRI Veterans Impact page."}],"uid":"35875","created_gmt":"2025-11-19 16:49:52","changed_gmt":"2025-11-19 16:55:25","author":"cweems8","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-11-11T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-11-11T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678671":{"id":"678671","type":"image","title":"2025_1107_Veterans_Day_v1_Monitors-1.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EGTRI Veterans Day 2025 banner--child holding flag while sitting on soldier\u0027s shoulders.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1763571048","gmt_created":"2025-11-19 16:50:48","changed":"1763571048","gmt_changed":"2025-11-19 16:50:48","alt":"GTRI Veterans Day 2025 banner--child holding flag while sitting on soldier\u0027s shoulders.","file":{"fid":"262729","name":"2025_1107_Veterans_Day_v1_Monitors-1.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/19\/2025_1107_Veterans_Day_v1_Monitors-1.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/19\/2025_1107_Veterans_Day_v1_Monitors-1.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":365303,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/19\/2025_1107_Veterans_Day_v1_Monitors-1.jpg?itok=cFaLe0Oz"}}},"media_ids":["678671"],"groups":[{"id":"1276","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI)"}],"categories":[{"id":"194610","name":"National Interests\/National Security"},{"id":"194612","name":"Workforce Development"}],"keywords":[],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":["christopher.weems@gtri.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686535":{"#nid":"686535","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Jill Gostin Elected 2026 IEEE President-Elect","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003Eill I. Gostin, a former longtime research leader at the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI), has been elected to serve as the President-Elect of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), marking a significant achievement in her decades of technical and professional leadership.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHer term will begin with a year as President-Elect in 2026, followed by her full year as President in 2027 and service as Past President in 2028.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGostin retired from GTRI in April 2025, concluding a career that spanned multiple decades, divisions, and leadership roles. She served in the Sensors and Electromagnetic Applications Laboratory (SEAL) and the Information and Communications Laboratory (ICL), and was appointed Deputy Director of ICL in 2015. Over the years, she worked on high-impact programs involving sensor systems, systems engineering, and technology integration for the Department of Defense (now the Department of War) and other national partners.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile she demonstrated great technical acumen during her time at GTRI, Gostin says it was her experience leading teams at GTRI that most directly prepared her for leadership in IEEE.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cAt GTRI, I led teams that spanned multiple labs and worked closely with partners across government, industry, and other research organizations,\u201d she said. \u201cWithin IEEE, I lead global teams that include members from academia, government, and industry\u2014all with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEric Grigorian, a Principal Research Engineer in ASL, has worked alongside Jill at both GTRI and IEEE. He was effusive in his praise of Gostin.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022I have known Jill since before I joined GTRI. She has been an exceptional mentor, colleague, and friend,\u0022 he said. \u0022Through my time at GTRI, I have had the opportunity to work with her on employee awards, recognition, and promotion initiatives, as well as externally through IEEE activities, particularly in my current role as IEEE Region 3 Director (Southeast USA).\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022Jill is highly organized, detail-oriented, and consistently provides thoughtful, unbiased perspectives when approached for advice. Her strong leadership abilities and dedication will undoubtedly enable her to serve IEEE and its members with distinction as IEEE President-Elect, President, and Past President over the next three years.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EColleagues Laud Jill Gostin\u0027s Leadership\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJill\u0027s former colleague Michele Burts, a research associate in ICL, praised Gostin\u0027s leadership.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022Jill was my Deputy Lab Director in ICL, and she was a great, compassionate leader who valued my uniqueness as a professional.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJill credits GTRI with sharpening her collaborative leadership skills, especially across mission-driven teams and stakeholder environments. She says GTRI also helped her develop the nuanced judgment required to lead large organizations with clarity and care.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cEach experience at GTRI and at IEEE, whether resolving a complex issue, re-planning a project, or working with a challenging stakeholder, has helped me grow as a leader, colleague, and collaborator,\u201d she said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStephen Welby, GTRI\u0027s Deputy Director, Research, echoed Jill\u0027s sentiments. Dr. Welby also has experience in a leadership role for IEEE. He was\u0026nbsp;Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of the organization from 2018 - 2022.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022As the 2027 President of IEEE, Jill will have an enormous opportunity to engage globally to advance the engineering profession and demonstrate the ability of technology to benefit humanity,\u0022 he said. \u0022Her work and leadership at GTRI have prepared her well for this role as our core values are also centered on growing technical leaders, advancing the security and economic well-being of our communities, and improving the human condition.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne notable difference between the two environments, she added, is that IEEE is a volunteer-driven organization, which requires a different leadership approach. \u201cMotivating and supporting volunteers requires a very different leadership approach, one that depends on shared purpose, respect, and inspiration rather than formal authority.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGostin said she is especially thankful for GTRI\u2019s encouragement of her service activities and the recognition that her leadership roles in IEEE also brought value back to GTRI.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe labs I served in (SEAL and ICL) recognized that high-level leadership roles within IEEE also benefited GTRI by strengthening its technical and professional network and its recognition as a leading research organization.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGostin\u2019s election is the culmination of over 25 years of IEEE membership and 18 years of sustained volunteer service. As she became more actively involved in IEEE, \u0026nbsp;it quickly became a professional and personal passion.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThose years cultivated my passion for leadership through volunteer work\u0026nbsp;with scouts, my church, and other community efforts. I realized how much I enjoyed helping people grow and succeed,\u201d she said. \u201cI found those same opportunities through IEEE, which gave me invaluable leadership experience that later helped me advance into higher-level management roles at GTRI.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022Jill is a respected leader and role model at GTRI and in the broader technical community,\u0022 said Leda Sox, a Senior Research Scientist in EOSL. \u0022She has inspired many researchers, especially female researchers, to chart their own career paths.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESox added: \u0022Jill likes to emphasize that IEEE is a professional society that has grown to encompass all technology professions. This personally helped motivate me, as a physicist, to become involved as an officer in the local IEEE Aerospace and Electronic Systems Society\/Geoscience and Remote Sensing Society (AESS\/GRSS) Atlanta joint chapter.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThose sentiments were echoed by Margaret Loper, a Regents\u0027 Researcher in ICL, and herself a legendary longtime GTRI researcher.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022Jill is a dedicated leader who cares deeply about mentoring and career development, especially for women who have had nontraditional career paths. It is one of her many accomplishments that was recognized when she won the 2016 Georgia Woman of the Year in Technology (WIT) award,\u0022 said Dr. Loper.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGostin\u0027s IEEE colleagues welcome her leadership.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022I cannot understate how impactful Jill has been to my professional development ever since we first met at a local IEEE event. Her early support set me up with the skills and knowledge needed to tackle the unique challenges I face as a research engineer and IEEE volunteer,\u0022 said Nelson Lourenco, a Principal Research Engineer in SEAL and IEEE Atlanta Section Executive Committee Vice Chair.\u0026nbsp;\u0022Years later, Jill is still a valuable mentor and has always set aside time to help me whenever I need it. I cannot think of a better person to lead IEEE to a brighter future.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJill believed in me before I believed in myself. She was the first to say, \u0027Go for it\u2014and how can I help?\u0027\u0022 said\u0026nbsp;Melody Richardson, IEEE Atlanta Section Educational Activities Chair.\u0026nbsp;\u0022From that moment, she\u2019s been a steady source of guidance and encouragement. Mentorship is more than advice\u2014it\u2019s belief. Jill lit the spark that launched my journey into STEM outreach, just as she has for so many others. I can\u2019t think of a better leader to guide IEEE into the future.\u0022\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022The fact that Jill is always willing to mentor junior engineers makes her a unique leader. She has not only excelled at GTRI but also held critical roles that led to the continued success of IEEE,\u0022 said\u0026nbsp;Tamseel Syed, IEEE Atlanta Section\u2013Executive Committee Chair.\u0026nbsp;\u0022Jill has been a true source of inspiration during my volunteer journey in IEEE. She\u2019s always listened and welcomed novel ideas. Moreover, she identifies development\/recognition opportunities personalized for each IEEE volunteer, which signifies their relevance. The innovative programs implemented during her leadership of MGA (IEEE\u0026nbsp;Member \u0026amp; Geographic Activities) helped drive higher IEEE membership value. She\u2019s an avid supporter of the local IEEE Atlanta community, especially its volunteers.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022Given her passion and dedication to IEEE, it\u2019s no surprise that she will be the President-Elect of IEEE in 2026!\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThrough her IEEE work, Gostin\u0026nbsp;has built lasting relationships, expanded her technical interests, and developed a global perspective on engineering leadership. She has held numerous senior roles in the organization, including serving on the IEEE Board of Directors and as the 2023 IEEE Vice President, Member and Geographic Activities.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWinning this election has provided me an even greater opportunity to give back to the organization that has so profoundly shaped my career and personal growth,\u201d she said, \u201cand to help ensure IEEE continues to empower and inspire the next generation of engineers and technologists worldwide.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGostin\u2019s priorities for her presidential term reflect her commitment to collaboration and professional development. She emphasized that, while the presidency is a one-year term, it is part of a broader three-year leadership continuum that includes the President-Elect and Past President roles.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAmong her stated goals:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EExpand support across the career lifecycle\u003C\/strong\u003E\u2014from students to retirees\u2014through personalized learning pathways, tailored educational resources, and enhanced professional development.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAdvance multidisciplinary innovation and collaboration\u003C\/strong\u003E by fostering broad-impact technical projects, competitions, and initiatives.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEnhance the member experience\u003C\/strong\u003E by strengthening volunteer support and delivering global-scale activities with meaningful local engagement.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELead responsibly\u003C\/strong\u003E by championing ethical excellence and ensuring IEEE remains the trusted global voice in standards and technology policy.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBroaden outreach and public awareness\u003C\/strong\u003E of the transformative impact of engineering and technology worldwide.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ECommitted to Service\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJill strongly encourages others, especially early-career GTRI researchers, to engage with professional societies such as IEEE.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWhen I reviewed annual evaluations or participated in hiring decisions, I always took note when someone was actively involved in a professional organization,\u201d she said. \u201cIt demonstrated their commitment to their field and their willingness to collaborate and contribute beyond their immediate role.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGostin stressed that true involvement goes beyond just membership.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cBy active involvement, I mean more than just membership. I am referring to volunteering, serving on committees, organizing events, leading projects, reviewing articles, etc,\u0022 she said. \u0022This kind of engagement strengthens your resume, expands your professional network, provides access to technical and leadership training, and opens doors to experiences you may not find in your day-to-day job.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGostin also pointed to her volunteer work with IEEE\u2019s MOVE Disaster Relief program, supporting recovery efforts alongside the Red Cross in the U.S., Puerto Rico, and India, as one of the most meaningful parts of her professional journey. \u0022Every contribution to the MOVE program helps advance technology for the benefit of humanity.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat also made an impression on Margaret Loper:\u0026nbsp;\u0022She is also committed to helping people and mobilizing IEEE resources in times of peril. My in-laws still talk about the time she asked the IEEE MOVE truck to check on them after Hurricane Michael in 2018. IEEE is very fortunate to have her as its president-elect. She will represent them with integrity and respect.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGostin recommends that everyone try to combine research and service: \u201cI encourage everyone to find their own ways to become involved in their professional society, based on their own interests and goals!\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cUltimately, my time at GTRI honed my ability to lead diverse, mission-driven teams: a skill that continues to shape my leadership approach within IEEE today.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWriter: \u003Cstrong\u003EChristopher Weems\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EGTRI Communications\u003Cbr\u003EGeorgia Tech Research Institute\u003Cbr\u003EAtlanta, Georgia\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/gtri.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI)\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E is the nonprofit, applied research division of the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech).\u202fFounded in 1934 as the Engineering Experiment Station, GTRI has grown to more than 3,000 employees, supporting eight laboratories in over 20 locations around the country and performing more than $919 million of problem-solving research annually for government and industry.\u202fGTRI\u0027s renowned researchers combine science, engineering, economics, policy, and technical expertise to solve complex problems for the U.S. federal government, state, and industry.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EJill I. Gostin, a former longtime research leader at the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI), has been elected to serve as the President-Elect of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), marking a significant achievement in her decades of technical and professional leadership.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHer term will begin with a year as President-Elect in 2026, followed by her full year as President in 2027 and service as Past President in 2028.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Jill I. Gostin, a former longtime research leader at the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI), has been elected to serve as the President-Elect of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)."}],"uid":"35875","created_gmt":"2025-11-19 16:43:08","changed_gmt":"2025-11-19 16:47:04","author":"cweems8","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-11-06T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-11-06T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678669":{"id":"678669","type":"image","title":"Jill-Gostin--2025-headshot.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EJill I. Gostin headshot\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1763570621","gmt_created":"2025-11-19 16:43:41","changed":"1763570621","gmt_changed":"2025-11-19 16:43:41","alt":"Jill Gostin headshot","file":{"fid":"262727","name":"Jill-Gostin--2025-headshot.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/19\/Jill-Gostin--2025-headshot.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/19\/Jill-Gostin--2025-headshot.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":108303,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/19\/Jill-Gostin--2025-headshot.jpg?itok=thdzQV-B"}},"678670":{"id":"678670","type":"image","title":"Jill-Gostin--GT-retirement-standing-with-banner.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EJill Gostin at the Georgia Tech Retirement Celebration.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1763570621","gmt_created":"2025-11-19 16:43:41","changed":"1763570621","gmt_changed":"2025-11-19 16:43:41","alt":"Jill Gostin posing beside the banner at the Georgia Tech Retirement Celebration.","file":{"fid":"262728","name":"Jill-Gostin--GT-retirement-standing-with-banner.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/19\/Jill-Gostin--GT-retirement-standing-with-banner.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/19\/Jill-Gostin--GT-retirement-standing-with-banner.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":228690,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/19\/Jill-Gostin--GT-retirement-standing-with-banner.jpg?itok=oHH2FBlA"}}},"media_ids":["678669","678670"],"groups":[{"id":"1276","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI)"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"},{"id":"39511","name":"Public Service, Leadership, and Policy"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":["christopher.weems@gtri.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686264":{"#nid":"686264","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Foley Scholar 2025 Winners and Finalists","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Foley Scholar Awards recognize the achievements of top graduate students whose vision and research are shaping the future of how people interact with and value technology. Previous finalists have originated from the College of Engineering, College of Computer Science, College of Design, and the Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWinners and finalists for the 2025 Foley Scholar Awards were celebrated at Georgia Tech\u0027s hotel and convention center on November 5, 2025.\u0026nbsp;The event was hosted by the Institute for People and Technology (IPaT) with its executive director, Michael Best, serving as the master of ceremonies as each finalist was recognized for their innovative research.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMany winners of this scholarship have moved into faculty positions or became industry leaders in their research areas.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022Both the winners and the finalists represent the brightest minds that Georgia Tech has to offer,\u0022 said Michael Best. \u0022Our finalist candidate pool is always composed of truly outstanding researchers. Selecting the winners is never easy,\u0022 said Best.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJames Foley, professor emeritus and computing pioneer in graphics and human-computer interaction for whom the awards are named, once again delivered inspiring and valuable insight at the conclusion of the evening\u0027s festivities celebrating the achievements of all finalists.\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECongratulations to the 2025 Foley Scholar winners who are:\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJoon Kum\u003C\/strong\u003E, M.S. student in human-computer interaction was awarded $1,000.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERachel Lowy\u003C\/strong\u003E, Ph.D. student in human-computer interaction was awarded $5,000.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENiharika Mathur\u003C\/strong\u003E, Ph.D student in human-centered computing was awarded $5,000.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMohsin Yousufi\u003C\/strong\u003E, Ph.D student in human centered computing was awarded $5,000.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe finalists in the master\u0027s category were Umme Ammara, Jo Chung, Joon Kum, and Christine Taylor.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe finalists in the Ph.D. category were Grace Barkhuff, Rachel Lowy, Niharika Mathur, Shravika Mittal, Michelle Reckner, Mohsin Yousufi, Yilun Zha, and Qiao Zhang.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA short description of each finalists\u0027 unique research along with their Georgia Tech faculty advisor is listed below:\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUmme Ammara\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003Eis a master\u0027s student in human computer interaction advised by Michael Best and Carrie Bruce. Her research vision is using human-centered design to improve healthcare systems in underserved settings.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJo Chung\u003C\/strong\u003E is a master\u0027s student in computer science advised by Betsy DiSalvo. Her research vision is to design interactive systems that empower users through meaningful engagement and equitable access.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJoon Kum\u003C\/strong\u003E is a master\u0027s student in human computer interaction advised by Ashok Goel. His research vision is closely aligned with IPaT\u2019s mission and values. He believes in the power of interdisciplinary research to support teachers and students, especially for those who are marginalized and underrepresented.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EChristine Taylor\u003C\/strong\u003E is a master\u0027s student in human computer interaction advised by Maribeth Coleman. Her core research vision is to design meaningful, human-centered technologies that address high-stakes problems in collaboration with the communities they serve. For example, one of her current research projects focuses on designing an AI predictive tool to detect patient deterioration at Children\u2019s Hospital of Atlanta.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGrace Barkhuff\u003C\/strong\u003E is a Ph.D. student in human-centered computing advised by Ellen Zegura. Her research vision centers around computing education and ethics. For example, her current research seeks to understand how instructors can ethically use GenAI in the higher education classroom.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERachel Lowy\u003C\/strong\u003E is a Ph.D. student in human-centered computing advised by Jennifer Kim. Her research focuses on building accessible technologies that foster learning, agency, and inclusion for people with disabilities and neurodivergent people, whose cognitive and learning profiles differ from those of the broader population, through strengths-based understandings of their skillsets.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENiharika Mathur\u003C\/strong\u003E is a Ph.D. student in human-centered computing advised by Sonia Chernova and Elizabeth Mynatt. Her research vision involve building human-centered AI systems that not just perform reliably, but also explain themselves in user-aligned ways.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EShravika Mittal\u003C\/strong\u003E is a Ph.D. student in computer science advised by Munmun De Choudhury. Her research goal is to help create a safe, inclusive, and responsible online information ecosystem, one that empowers vulnerable groups with equitable knowledge, the freedom to communicate their struggles openly, and a supportive community.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMichelle Reckner\u003C\/strong\u003E is a Ph.D. student in civil engineering advised by Iris Tien. Her research vision is to develop the most effective decision-making methodologies possible utilizing available data to determine whether to repair old infrastructure or construct new infrastructure while considering the types of infrastructure that will most benefit a community.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMohsin Yousufi\u003C\/strong\u003E is a Ph.D. student in digital media advised by Yanni Loukissas. His research vision is to investigate and build creative technologies that address systemic epistemic injustices and reinvigorate democratic civic engagement.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYilun Zha\u003C\/strong\u003E is a Ph.D. student in architecture advised by Ellen Dunham-Jones and Hui Cai. His research addresses food challenges by developing and applying geospatial computational methods to investigate how the design of the built environment and emerging technologies influence dietary behaviors and contribute to diet-related diseases.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EQiao Zhang\u003C\/strong\u003E is a Ph.D. student in computer science advised by Christopher MacLellan. Her research involves designing and investigating human-AI teaming studies\u2014identifying suitable tasks, agent types, and natural paths for alignment and adaptation.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA collection of photos from the November 5, 2025, Foley Scholar awards dinner are \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/96938041@N06\/albums\/72177720330162509\/\u0022\u003Eavailable here\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Foley Scholar Awards recognize the achievements of top graduate students whose vision and research are shaping the future of how people interact with and value technology.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The Foley Scholar Awards recognize the achievements of top graduate students whose vision and research are shaping the future of how people interact with and value technology. "}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2025-11-06 18:52:51","changed_gmt":"2025-11-17 15:00:03","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-11-06T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-11-06T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678565":{"id":"678565","type":"image","title":"Foley Scholar Award Winners for 2025","body":"\u003Cp\u003EPictured (left-to-right): Micheal Best, Mohsin Yousufi, Joon Kum, Rachel Lowy, Niharika Mathur, and James Foley.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1762454642","gmt_created":"2025-11-06 18:44:02","changed":"1763391644","gmt_changed":"2025-11-17 15:00:44","alt":"Pictured (left-to-right): Micheal Best, Mohsin Yousufi, Joon Kum, Rachel Lowy, Niharika Mathur, and James Foley.","file":{"fid":"262617","name":"Foley-Winners-smaller-edited.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/06\/Foley-Winners-smaller-edited.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/06\/Foley-Winners-smaller-edited.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":531831,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/06\/Foley-Winners-smaller-edited.jpg?itok=ksG6JXw3"}},"678564":{"id":"678564","type":"image","title":"Mike and Jim","body":"\u003Cp\u003EIPaT Executive Director Micheal Best (left) pictured with James Foley, professor emeritus and a computing pioneer in graphics and human-computer interaction.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1762454239","gmt_created":"2025-11-06 18:37:19","changed":"1762454628","gmt_changed":"2025-11-06 18:43:48","alt":"IPaT Executive Director Micheal Best (left) pictured with James Foley, professor emeritus and a computing pioneer in graphics and human-computer interaction.","file":{"fid":"262616","name":"mikeandjim-800pxhigh.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/06\/mikeandjim-800pxhigh.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/06\/mikeandjim-800pxhigh.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":242787,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/06\/mikeandjim-800pxhigh.jpg?itok=EnnCwTrm"}}},"media_ids":["678565","678564"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWalter Rich\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["walter.rich@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686417":{"#nid":"686417","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Fan Zhang Named to American Nuclear Society\u2019s 40 Under 40 List ","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/faculty\/zhang-2\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFan Zhang\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, an assistant professor in the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nremp.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENuclear and Radiological Engineering and Medical Physics (NREMP) program\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, has been named to the American Nuclear Society\u2019s (ANS) 40 Under 40 list.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe list, published in the November issue of \u003Cem\u003ENuclear News\u003C\/em\u003E magazine, recognizes early career professionals who have made significant contributions to the nuclear field and are poised to shape its future. The 40 honorees are featured in a special section highlighting their accomplishments, leadership, and impact on the industry.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EZhang said the ANS recognition is both meaningful and motivating.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIt\u2019s a humbling reminder that the work I\u2019m passionate about\u2014making nuclear systems safer, more efficient, and more secure\u2014matters to the broader community,\u201d she said. \u201cIt motivates me to give back and keep mentoring and inspiring the next generation and make a global impact.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EZhang directs the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sites.gatech.edu\/ifanlab\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIntelligence for Advanced Nuclear (iFAN) Lab\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, where her research primarily focuses on nuclear cybersecurity, robotics, anomaly detection, digital twin, machine learning and artificial intelligence.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe create solutions to make nuclear systems safer, more efficient and secure,\u201d she said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/news\/fan-zhang-named-american-nuclear-societys-40-under-40-list\u0022\u003ERead Full Story on the ME Newspage\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EFan Zhang has been named to American Nuclear Society\u2019s 40 Under 40 list.The list, published in the November issue of \u003Cem\u003ENuclear News\u003C\/em\u003E magazine, recognizes early career professionals who have made significant contributions to the nuclear field and are poised to shape its future. The 40 honorees are featured in a special section highlighting their accomplishments, leadership, and impact on the industry.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Fan Zhang, an assistant professor in the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering\u2019s Nuclear and Radiological Engineering and Medical Physics (NREMP) program, has been named to the American Nuclear Society\u2019s (ANS) 40 Under 40 list."}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2025-11-13 18:36:41","changed_gmt":"2025-11-13 18:40:01","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-11-10T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-11-10T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678617":{"id":"678617","type":"image","title":"fan-zhang-lab-4_53896564757_o.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EFan Zhang, Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Georgia Tech\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1763059017","gmt_created":"2025-11-13 18:36:57","changed":"1763059017","gmt_changed":"2025-11-13 18:36:57","alt":"Fan Zhang, Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Georgia Tech ","file":{"fid":"262672","name":"fan-zhang-lab-4_53896564757_o.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/13\/fan-zhang-lab-4_53896564757_o.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/13\/fan-zhang-lab-4_53896564757_o.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":921148,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/13\/fan-zhang-lab-4_53896564757_o.jpg?itok=1LsDyecD"}}},"media_ids":["678617"],"groups":[{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"194610","name":"National Interests\/National Security"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"145171","name":"Cybersecurity"},{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"39481","name":"National Security"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:ttroha3@gatech.edu\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003ETracie Troha\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ECommunications Officer, Georgia Tech\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686416":{"#nid":"686416","#data":{"type":"news","title":"AI Increases Productivity, And That Comes With Energy Costs","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1088\/1748-9326\/ae0e3b\u0022 rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022(opens in a new window)\u0022\u003EA new study\u003C\/a\u003E from Georgia Tech\u2019s Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School of Public Policy is one of the first to estimate how changes in productivity due to AI will affect energy consumption.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe paper, written by \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/spp.gatech.edu\/people\/person\/tony-harding\u0022 rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022(opens in a new window)\u0022\u003EAnthony Harding\u003C\/a\u003E and co-author Juan Moreno-Cruz at the University of Waterloo, suggests that greater productivity due to AI will result in a 0.03% annual increase in energy use in the United States and a 0.02% increase in CO2 emissions. That\u2019s about equal to the yearly electricity use of a mid-sized U.S. city.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIf AI is as transformational as some expect it to be, it makes it even more important to think about the knock-on effects throughout the economy, beyond just the demands of the technology itself,\u201d Harding said. \u201cU.S. energy demand has stabilized since the mid-2000s. There is potential for AI to disrupt this, but there is also large uncertainty.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/iac.gatech.edu\/featured-news\/2025\/11\/ai-productivity-energy-use\u0022\u003ERead More on the IAC Webpage\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1088\/1748-9326\/ae0e3b\u0022 rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022(opens in a new window)\u0022\u003EA new study\u003C\/a\u003E from Georgia Tech\u2019s Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School of Public Policy is one of the first to estimate how changes in productivity due to AI will affect energy consumption.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Artificial intelligence doesn\u2019t just consume energy via data centers and hardware. It also increases productivity, which comes with its own energy and emissions costs."}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2025-11-13 18:28:38","changed_gmt":"2025-11-13 18:33:30","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-11-13T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-11-13T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678616":{"id":"678616","type":"image","title":"AI-Productivity-and-Energy-TonyHarding.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EArtificial intelligence doesn\u2019t just consume energy via data centers and hardware. It also increases productivity, which comes with its own energy and emissions costs.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1763058523","gmt_created":"2025-11-13 18:28:43","changed":"1763058523","gmt_changed":"2025-11-13 18:28:43","alt":"Artificial intelligence doesn\u2019t just consume energy via data centers and hardware. It also increases productivity, which comes with its own energy and emissions costs.","file":{"fid":"262671","name":"AI-Productivity-and-Energy-TonyHarding.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/13\/AI-Productivity-and-Energy-TonyHarding.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/13\/AI-Productivity-and-Energy-TonyHarding.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":352912,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/13\/AI-Productivity-and-Energy-TonyHarding.jpg?itok=gv0UejQ-"}}},"media_ids":["678616"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/iac.gatech.edu\/featured-news\/2025\/11\/ai-productivity-energy-use","title":"Read Story on IAC Newspage"}],"groups":[{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"194606","name":"Artificial Intelligence"},{"id":"142","name":"City Planning, Transportation, and Urban Growth"},{"id":"131","name":"Economic Development and Policy"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"193655","name":"Artificial Intelligence at Georgia Tech"},{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686413":{"#nid":"686413","#data":{"type":"news","title":"BBISS Welcomes Seven New Faculty Fellows","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems (BBISS) is proud to welcome seven newly appointed faculty fellows. These distinguished faculty members will not only receive support for their innovative research and areas of expertise but also take on key leadership roles within BBISS. As fellows, they serve as strategic advisors, help cultivate a vibrant community of sustainability-focused scholars and students across Georgia Tech, and champion the Institute\u2019s mission, values, and goals to broader audiences.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEach fellow will serve a three-year term, with the possibility of renewal. Established in 2014, the BBISS Faculty Fellows program draws talent from all seven Georgia Tech Colleges and the Georgia Tech Research Institute. \u201cThe Fellows bring diverse expertise and unique perspectives that enrich our academic community,\u201d says BBISS Executive Director Beril Toktay. \u201cTheir interdisciplinary backgrounds create valuable opportunities for collaboration that strengthens our sustainability initiatives and expands the Institute\u0027s impact.\u201d These faculty members will join the current roster of BBISS Faculty Fellows.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/planning.gatech.edu\/people\/emily-barrett\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEmily Barrett\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, Assistant Professor, School of City and Regional Planning, College of Design.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.scheller.gatech.edu\/directory\/faculty\/dhanorkar\/index.html\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESuvrat Dhanorkar\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E,\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003EAssociate Professor of Operations Management, Scheller College of Business.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/iac.gatech.edu\/people\/person\/889222ee-d2fd-599b-9140-79d7dc30afeb\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBobby Harris\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E,\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003EAssistant Professor\u003Cstrong\u003E,\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003ESchool of Economics, Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ce.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/sofia-perez-guzman\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESof\u00eda P\u00e9rez-Guzm\u00e1n\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E,\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003EAssistant Professor, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.scs.gatech.edu\/people\/ahmed-saeed\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAhmed Saeed\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, Assistant Professor, School of Computer Science, College of Computing.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/eas.gatech.edu\/people\/sarhadi-ali\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAli Sarhadi\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E,\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003EAssistant Professor, School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, College of Sciences.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.chbe.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/patricia-stathatou\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPatricia Stathatou\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E,\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003EAssistant Professor, School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, College of Engineering.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems (BBISS) is proud to welcome seven newly appointed faculty fellows. These distinguished faculty members will not only receive support for their innovative research and areas of expertise but also take on key leadership roles within BBISS.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"As fellows, they serve as strategic advisors, help cultivate a vibrant community of sustainability-focused scholars and students across Georgia Tech, and champion the Institute\u2019s mission, values, and goals to broader audiences."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2025-11-13 18:12:03","changed_gmt":"2025-11-13 18:15:18","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-11-13T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-11-13T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678615":{"id":"678615","type":"image","title":"2025_BBISS_Faculty_Fellows_collage.png","body":null,"created":"1763057543","gmt_created":"2025-11-13 18:12:23","changed":"1763057543","gmt_changed":"2025-11-13 18:12:23","alt":"Collage of seven portraits of the 2025 BBISS Faculty Fellows","file":{"fid":"262670","name":"2025_BBISS_Faculty_Fellows_collage.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/13\/2025_BBISS_Faculty_Fellows_collage.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/13\/2025_BBISS_Faculty_Fellows_collage.png","mime":"image\/png","size":3754589,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/13\/2025_BBISS_Faculty_Fellows_collage.png?itok=J9iuvxSY"}}},"media_ids":["678615"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[{"id":"194836","name":"Sustainability"}],"keywords":[{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Research Program Communications Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686351":{"#nid":"686351","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Community Spotlight \u2013 Rebecca Watts Hull","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ERebecca Watts Hull wants to transform what students learn and how faculty across campus connect, innovate, and inspire action for a sustainable future. The assistant director for Faculty Development for Sustainability Education Initiatives in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ctl.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ECenter for Teaching and Learning\u003C\/a\u003E brings a collaborative spirit that\u2019s made her an invaluable partner to Georgia Tech\u2019s Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems (BBISS) and to faculty interested in showing the real-world relevance of sustainability in their classrooms.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHer path to Georgia Tech was shaped by years of hands-on experience in nonprofit environmental advocacy, driving partnerships among medical professionals, scientists, and educators to protect air quality and children\u2019s health. \u201cI kept asking myself why it is,\u201d she says, \u201cthat in a city like Atlanta, with all these higher education institutions and one of the largest concentrations of nonprofit organizations in the country, there weren\u2019t more partnerships between nonprofits and academia.\u201d Watts Hull says she was confused since the two groups \u201coften care about and are aiming to advance the same things.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn 2013, while teaching a continuing education course on sustainability leadership at Emory University, Watts Hull realized that sustainability in higher education was taking off. She pivoted to pursue a Ph.D. at Georgia Tech in history and sociology, and later joined Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/georgia-tech-announces-institutionalization-plan-serve-learn-sustain\u0022\u003EServe-Learn-Sustain\u003C\/a\u003E (SLS) program, established to build bridges between the university and community partners.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/strategicplan.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003Estrategic plan\u003C\/a\u003E elevated sustainability as a core value, Watts Hull served on the \u201cAmplify Impact\u201d team to help shape the strategy and implementation of the plan. An immediate result was the creation of her role within the Center for Teaching and Learning, specifically around sustainability and the United Nations\u2019 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). \u201cOur aim is to equip students to become true change makers, who can advance the SDGs and fulfill Georgia Tech\u2019s mission of improving not only technology, but also lives and communities,\u201d she explains.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECentral to her approach are partnerships with other units, including BBISS, which unites faculty and researchers across the Institute who are focused on sustainability. Watts Hull leads the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ctl.gatech.edu\/transformative-teaching-with-sustainability-and-the-sdgs\/\u0022\u003ECommunity of Practice on Transformative Teaching with the SDGs\u003C\/a\u003E, an initiative in its third year. \u201cIt\u2019s a space where faculty can learn from each other how to teach sustainability in different disciplines,\u201d she says. In addition, participants engage in outreach, sharing cross-disciplinary strategies and creative classroom approaches at Georgia Tech events and conferences.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWatts Hull says incorporating sustainability into courses not only enhances students\u2019 overall learning and motivation but also helps faculty find renewed meaning and enjoyment in their teaching. \u201cWell-designed, real-world projects help students see the importance of what they\u2019re learning, and they stay engaged,\u201d she notes. \u201cBut it\u2019s also true that faculty feel more inspired when they know their teaching matters for big, pressing challenges.\u201d One way faculty can engage is by applying for \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/blog.ctl.gatech.edu\/2025\/05\/19\/2025-2026-undergraduate-sustainability-education-innovation-grants-awarded\/\u0022\u003EUndergraduate Sustainability Education Innovation\u003C\/a\u003E grants. To date, 60 awards have been granted to faculty across campus.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESupporting student and faculty success is a family affair. Her husband, Jonathan, serves as associate vice chancellor for Student and Faculty Success for the University System of Georgia. \u201cOur work both relates to teaching and learning, so we enjoy sharing that in common,\u201d says Watts Hull, whose early community work included serving as a Peace Corps volunteer in Uganda.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMost recently, the busy administrator has contributed a chapter to a 2025 book, \u003Cem\u003EHigher Education\u2019s Leadership in Climate Action and Sustainability,\u003C\/em\u003E where she highlights five strategies for scaling up faculty engagement in sustainability across the curriculum.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne of her favorite pastimes is hiking in North Georgia, especially on Blood Mountain, the state\u2019s highest summit along the Appalachian Trail. \u201cThe view from the top is just spectacular,\u201d she says. It\u2019s a fitting parallel to the ongoing journey toward a more sustainable future at Georgia Tech, one step \u2014 and partnership \u2014 at a time.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u2014Anne Wainscott-Sargent\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"Championing Sustainability Education and Faculty Partnerships at Georgia Tech"}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWatts Hull says incorporating sustainability into courses not only enhances students\u2019 overall learning and motivation but also helps faculty find renewed meaning and enjoyment in their teaching.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Rebecca Watts Hull wants to transform what students learn and how faculty across campus connect, innovate, and inspire action for a sustainable future."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2025-11-11 16:45:07","changed_gmt":"2025-11-11 20:37:35","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-11-11T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-11-11T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678592":{"id":"678592","type":"image","title":"Rebecca_Watts_Hull_Pic_cropped.jpg","body":null,"created":"1762879539","gmt_created":"2025-11-11 16:45:39","changed":"1762879539","gmt_changed":"2025-11-11 16:45:39","alt":"Rebecca Watts Hull and her husband Jonathan pose at a scenic overlook on a hiking trip.","file":{"fid":"262647","name":"Rebecca_Watts_Hull_Pic_cropped.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/11\/Rebecca_Watts_Hull_Pic_cropped.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/11\/Rebecca_Watts_Hull_Pic_cropped.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":3476641,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/11\/Rebecca_Watts_Hull_Pic_cropped.jpg?itok=RRXisl4h"}}},"media_ids":["678592"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[{"id":"132","name":"Institute Leadership"}],"keywords":[{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Research Communications Program Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686335":{"#nid":"686335","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Wearable Health Equity Workshop","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe second Wearable Health Equity Workshop was held on October 30, 2025, at the Georgia Tech Marcus Nanotechnology Building. The workshop presented some of the latest wearable health technologies and offered practical solutions for advancing rural healthcare.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe all-day workshop was sponsored by the Georgia Tech Wearable Intelligent Systems and Healthcare Center (\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sites.gatech.edu\/wish\/\u0022\u003EWISH Center\u003C\/a\u003E), the Institute for People and Technology (\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/ipat\u0022\u003EIPaT\u003C\/a\u003E), and the Institute for Matter and Systems (\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/matter-systems.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EIMS\u003C\/a\u003E).\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAcademic, clinical, and industry leaders gathered to learn about some of the most exciting wearable technologies and explore proven, practical solutions for improving health in underserved rural areas. Medical professionals from Sioux Falls, South Dakota and Albany, Georgia shared real-world solutions to providing more effective healthcare in their regional, rural areas.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe morning keynote speaker was Philipp Gutruf, Ph.D., an associate professor and associate department head of biomedical engineering at the University of Arizona. Gutruf\u2019s research focuses on creating devices that intimately integrate with biological systems, developing wireless, battery-free, and fully implantable platforms for biosignal monitoring, neurostimulation, and biointerfaces.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe afternoon keynote speaker was Kimberlee McKay, M.D., with Avera Medical Group in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. McKay is a physician-leader in women\u2019s health who has redefined how obstetrics and gynecology are delivered across rural and underserved communities.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA technology panel moderated by Alexander Adams, Ph.D., assistant professor, in the College of Computing at Georgia Tech included:\u003Cbr\u003E* Andrea Braden, M.D., Founder \u0026amp; CEO of Lybbie and medical director of the Atlanta Birth Center\u003Cbr\u003E* \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ece.gatech.edu\/directory\/farrokh-ayazi\u0022\u003EFarrokh Ayazi\u003C\/a\u003E, Ph.D., director of the Georgia Tech Analog Consortium, Regents Entrepreneur, and Ken Byers Professorship in Microsystems\u003Cbr\u003E* \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.cc.gatech.edu\/people\/rosa-arriaga\u0022\u003ERosa Arriaga\u003C\/a\u003E, Ph.D., associate professor in the School of Interactive Computing, College of Computing at Georgia Tech\u003Cbr\u003E* Steve Xu, M.D., CEO Sibel Health, medical director at Querrey Simpson Institute for Bioelectronics Northwestern University was scheduled, but was unable to attend.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the afternoon, a rural health panel was moderated by Rudolph Gleason, Ph.D., professor in mechanical engineering and biomedical engineering at Georgia Tech.\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003EThose panelists were:\u003Cbr\u003E* Shelly Spires, M.S.M., CEO Albany Area Primary Health Care, Inc.\u003Cbr\u003E* W. Brad Jones, Ph.D., CEO Life Well Promotions\u003Cbr\u003E* Ruwanthi Ekanayake, M.D.\/Ph.D. candidate, Emory University - Rollins School of Public Health and Emory School of Medicine\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EThe best poster awards were won by postdoctoral research fellow Jimin Lee, Ph.D., and mechanical engineering doctoral student Garan Byun. The best rapid talk award winner was Ramy Ghanim, a doctoral student in chemical engineering.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EKey faculty organizers of this year\u2019s event included \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/faculty\/yeo\u0022\u003EW. Hong Yeo\u003C\/a\u003E, director of the WISH Center and professor in the Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering and the Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering; \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/4212\u0022\u003EClint Zeagler\u003C\/a\u003E, director of strategic partnerships in IPaT; Josh Lee, research program manager in the WISH Center; \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.cc.gatech.edu\/people\/alexander-t-adams\u0022\u003EAlexander Adams\u003C\/a\u003E, assistant professor, School of Interactive Computing; and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/faculty\/gleason\u0022\u003ERudy Gleason\u003C\/a\u003E, professor in the Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering and the Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe second Wearable Health Equity Workshop was held on October 30, 2025, at the Georgia Tech Marcus Nanotechnology Building. The workshop presented some of the latest wearable health technologies and offered practical solutions for advancing rural healthcare.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The second Wearable Health Equity Workshop was held on October 30, 2025, at the Georgia Tech Marcus Nanotechnology Building. The workshop presented some of the latest wearable health technologies and offered practical solutions for advancing rural healthc"}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2025-11-10 19:21:09","changed_gmt":"2025-11-10 20:24:03","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-11-10T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-11-10T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678589":{"id":"678589","type":"image","title":"Wearables Workshop Oct 2025","body":"\u003Cp\u003EPicture upper left: Philipp Gutruf, Alex Adams, Hong Yeo, and Kimberlee McKay. Picture upper right: workshop attendees. Picture lower left: Rudy Gleason, Shelly Spires, Brad Jones, and Ruwanthi Ekanayake. Picture lower right: Hong Yeo, Garan Byun, and Clint Zeagler.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1762802375","gmt_created":"2025-11-10 19:19:35","changed":"1762802419","gmt_changed":"2025-11-10 19:20:19","alt":"Picture upper left: Philipp Gutruf, Alex Adams, Hong Yeo, and Kimberlee McKay. Picture upper right: workshop attendees. Picture lower left: Rudy Gleason, Shelly Spires, Brad Jones, and Ruwanthi Ekanayake. Picture lower right: Hong Yeo, Garan Byun, and Clint Zeagler.","file":{"fid":"262643","name":"4-pics-v1.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/10\/4-pics-v1.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/10\/4-pics-v1.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":527866,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/10\/4-pics-v1.jpg?itok=p2lp0pbn"}}},"media_ids":["678589"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWalter Rich\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["walter.rich@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686306":{"#nid":"686306","#data":{"type":"news","title":"James G. Campbell Fellowship and Spark Award Winners Announced","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.research.gatech.edu\/energy\u0022\u003EStrategic Energy Institute\u003C\/a\u003E and the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EEnergy, Policy, and Innovation Center\u003C\/a\u003E at the Georgia Institute of Technology have announced the recipients of this year\u2019s James G. Campbell Fellowship and Spark Awards.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EKristian Lockyear, a doctoral student in the Sustainable Systems Thermal Lab, received the Campbell Fellowship, which recognizes a Georgia Tech graduate student conducting outstanding research in renewable energy systems. Candidates are nominated by their advisors for exceptional academic achievement in the field.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELockyear\u2019s research, advised by Professor \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/faculty\/garimella\u0022\u003ESrinivas Garimella\u003C\/a\u003E in the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/me.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EGeorge W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering,\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003Ecenters on developing a biomass-powered adsorption cooling system to address food supply shortages in the cold chain and enable vaccine delivery to remote regions. He also holds a bachelor\u2019s degree in chemical and biomolecular engineering from Georgia Tech and is committed to advancing sustainable cooling technologies that improve access in developing areas and promote global energy equity.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Spark Award honors Georgia Tech graduate students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in advancing student engagement with energy research, along with a strong record of service and broader impact. This year\u2019s recipients are Daksh Adhikari, John Kim, Douglas Lars Nelson, Alex Magalhaes, Anna Raymaker, and Talia Thomas. \u201cThis year saw one of the largest pools of applications for the annual awards,\u201d said Jordann Britt, SEI\u2019s program coordinator, who led the selection process. \u201cAwardees were thoughtfully chosen based on research excellence, a strong record of service, and projects demonstrating broader impact on advancing renewable energy. Through these scholarships, we hope to encourage and support students as they grow into future leaders in the energy industry.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDaksh Adhikari is a second-year doctoral student in mechanical engineering working in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/minds.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EMiNDS Lab\u003C\/a\u003E. His research focuses on increasing the adoption of two-phase thermal management techniques in artificial intelligence data centers to reduce water consumption. Adhikari is developing machine learning-based control systems to manage the unstable regions inherent in two-phase cooling processes. Outside of the lab, he enjoys playing guitar and exploring scientific topics related to space.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJohn Kim is a doctoral candidate in public policy, advised by \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/iac.gatech.edu\/people\/person\/daniel-matisoff\u0022\u003EProfessor Daniel Matisoff\u003C\/a\u003E. His research examines the distributional effects of environmental and energy infrastructure challenges, with a focus on grid resilience, public safety, and environmental justice. Kim\u2019s broader research agenda includes analyzing inequities in power grid restoration, the economic impacts of EPA Superfund cleanups, and the socioeconomic drivers of electric vehicle adoption.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDouglas Lars Nelson is a fifth-year doctoral candidate at the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.mse.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Materials Science and Engineering,\u003C\/a\u003E advised by \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.mse.gatech.edu\/people\/matthew-mcdowell\u0022\u003EProfessor Matthew McDowell.\u003C\/a\u003E His research uses advanced characterization techniques to quantify degradation in next-generation battery materials, contributing to the development of safer, high-energy batteries. Nelson earned his undergraduate degree in materials science and engineering from Clemson University.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlex Magalhaes is a master\u2019s student in computational science and engineering, advised by\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cse.gatech.edu\/people\/qi-tang\u0022\u003EProfessor Qi Tang\u003C\/a\u003E. His research centers on developing scalable, high-fidelity numerical algorithms to simulate plasma confinement and equilibrium in nuclear fusion reactors. Magalhaes holds a bachelor\u2019s degree in physics from Wesleyan University and previously worked as a data scientist at Quantiphi. He plans to pursue a doctorate in computational plasma physics. In his free time, he enjoys rock climbing, which he\u2019s done at Yosemite and Grand Teton National Park.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnna Raymaker is a doctoral student in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ece.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Electrical and Computer Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E, advised by \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.cc.gatech.edu\/people\/saman-zonouz\u0022\u003EProfessor Saman Zonouz.\u003C\/a\u003E Her research focuses on securing critical infrastructure by identifying and mitigating cyber risks in systems, such as maritime networks and distributed energy resources. Raymaker leads a U.S. Department of Energy-aligned initiative to locate exposed solar inverters worldwide and assess their impact on operational power grids. She currently serves as president of the Graduate Student Association for the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scp.cc.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Cybersecurity and Privacy.\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETalia Thomas is a doctoral candidate in mechanical engineering working in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/mtmcdowell.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EMcDowell Lab.\u003C\/a\u003E Her research focuses on sustainable carbon materials for next-generation lithium- and sodium-ion batteries by using biomass precursors such as lignin and cellulose to develop high-performance anodes. Thomas also integrates life cycle and techno-economic assessments to evaluate scalability and environmental impact. She is an active leader in the graduate community, organizing initiatives that promote inclusion and student engagement. Before graduate school, she worked as a maintenance engineer at Dow and as a chemistry research associate at Zymergen.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EWritten by: \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:Strickland, Katie M \u0026lt;kstrickland40@gatech.edu\u0026gt;\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EKatie Strickland\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.research.gatech.edu\/energy\u0022\u003EStrategic Energy Institute\u003C\/a\u003E and the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EEnergy, Policy, and Innovation Center\u003C\/a\u003E at the Georgia Institute of Technology have announced the recipients of this year\u2019s James G. Campbell Fellowship and Spark Awards.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EKristian Lockyear, a doctoral student in the Sustainable Systems Thermal Lab, received the Campbell Fellowship, which recognizes a Georgia Tech graduate student conducting outstanding research in renewable energy systems. Candidates are nominated by their advisors for exceptional academic achievement in the field.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Spark Award honors Georgia Tech graduate students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in advancing student engagement with energy research, along with a strong record of service and broader impact. This year\u2019s recipients are Daksh Adhikari, John Kim, Douglas Lars Nelson, Alex Magalhaes, Anna Raymaker, and Talia Thomas.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The Strategic Energy Institute and the Energy, Policy, and Innovation Center at the Georgia Institute of Technology have announced the recipients of this year\u2019s James G. Campbell Fellowship and Spark Awards."}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2025-11-10 13:29:25","changed_gmt":"2025-11-10 17:54:27","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-11-01T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-11-01T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678577":{"id":"678577","type":"image","title":"2025-Awardees-Collage.png","body":"\u003Cp\u003EFrom the Left: Anna Raymaker, Talia Thomas, John Kim, Kristian Lockyear, Daksh Adhikari, Alex Magalhaes, and Douglas Lars Nelson.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1762781400","gmt_created":"2025-11-10 13:30:00","changed":"1762781400","gmt_changed":"2025-11-10 13:30:00","alt":"Collage of 2025 James G. Campbell and Spark Award Recipients","file":{"fid":"262630","name":"2025-Awardees-Collage.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/10\/2025-Awardees-Collage.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/10\/2025-Awardees-Collage.png","mime":"image\/png","size":2208105,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/10\/2025-Awardees-Collage.png?itok=INMfSzqY"}}},"media_ids":["678577"],"groups":[{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"194607","name":"Batteries"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"193158","name":"Student Competition Winners (academic, innovation, and research)"},{"id":"193157","name":"Student Honors and Achievements"},{"id":"8862","name":"Student Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"39511","name":"Public Service, Leadership, and Policy"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EPriya Devarajan\u003C\/a\u003E || SEI Communications Program Manager\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686278":{"#nid":"686278","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Attendees Reflect on the Georgia Resiliency Conference 2025","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAgainst a backdrop of ancient live oaks draped in Spanish moss and salt marshes alive with shorebirds, a statewide conversation about the future of Georgia\u0027s environmental resilience took place at Jekyll Island. The \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/georgiaclimateconference.org\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia Resiliency Conference 2025\u003C\/a\u003E, organized by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), brought together more than 430 leaders and experts from across public, private, nonprofit, and academic sectors, including a large delegation from Georgia Tech.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe island\u0027s natural beauty and vitality served as both inspiration and an urgent reminder of what communities across Georgia stand to lose without coordinated action. Faculty, administration, research fellows, students, collaborators, and Georgia Tech President Emeritus and keynote speaker G. Wayne Clough brought diverse perspectives to discussions ranging from coastal vulnerability to data-driven decision-making. Throughout the event, one theme remained constant: the essential role of interdisciplinary research in addressing real-world environmental challenges across the state.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the reflections below, Georgia Tech attendees share their takeaways from this landmark gathering.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe continued commitment by many stakeholders to manage our carbon pollution stood out, as did the importance and fragility of Georgia\u2019s coastal wetlands. It was also rewarding to reconnect with Wayne Clough and hear his geological perspective on our state. I was particularly impressed by the use of AI and spatial data analytics featured in the tools cafe.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u2014 \u003Cstrong\u003EMarilyn Brown\u003C\/strong\u003E, Regents\u2019 and Brook Byers Professor, Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School of Public Policy\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cResiliency is now. It\u2019s not a future goal \u2014 it\u2019s a present imperative. As we face accelerating environmental challenges, we must adapt in real time to protect our resources and communities. I was deeply inspired by Wayne Clough\u2019s keynote, which emphasized the importance of conservation and forward-thinking systems that can endure uncertainty. What struck me most was the number of Georgia Tech colleagues actively advancing both urban and rural resiliency across our state. Their dedication and innovation give me hope and reaffirm the importance of collaboration in this work.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u2014 \u003Cstrong\u003EJennifer Chirico\u003C\/strong\u003E, Associate Vice President of Sustainability\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cIt was great to reconnect and network with sponsors, Georgia researchers, local governments, and other stakeholders concerned with coastal resiliency. I was pleasantly surprised by Georgia Tech\u2019s strong presence this year and proud to see my colleagues presenting and moderating sessions. It was long overdue, as planners routinely address issues like climate change and resiliency. The conference\u2019s dedicated focus on connecting natural areas across the state deeply resonated. Having worked on greenspace issues for 25 years, I was inspired by the vision for a statewide trail system linking Macon to the coast through wildlife corridors. Big ideas like this will make a real difference in Georgia\u2019s future.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u2014 \u003Cstrong\u003ETony Giarrusso\u003C\/strong\u003E, Associate Director, Center for Urban Resilience and Analytics, College of Design\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cThe Georgia Resilience Conference provided a great forum for us to introduce our new Georgia Tech for Georgia\u2019s Tomorrow (GT\u00b2) Center to a range of stakeholders and collaborators \u2014 from the Georgia DNR to local officials. From the coastal barrier islands to the Blue Ridge Mountains, we\u2019re focusing on research that strengthens resilience and reduces risk from natural disasters, while connecting Georgia Tech\u2019s science to communities across the state. We were inspired by the level of collaboration among agencies, researchers, and practitioners, and we were glad to jointly debut the center\u2019s plans at this year\u2019s event. Our thanks to Jennifer Kline and the Georgia DNR for organizing such a meaningful and energizing conference.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u2014 \u003Cstrong\u003EJoel Kostka\u003C\/strong\u003E, Tom and Marie Patton Distinguished Professor and Inaugural Director, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cos.gatech.edu\/news\/college-sciences-launches-new-center-georgia-tech-georgias-tomorrow\u0022\u003EGeorgia Tech for Georgia\u2019s Tomorrow (GT\u00b2)\u003C\/a\u003E; Associate Chair for Research, School of Biological Sciences\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cI had a phenomenal experience at the Georgia Resilience Conference. It was heartening and eye-opening to see so many participants from all sectors invested in protecting the environment and supporting communities impacted by environmental change. I connected with professors from other universities to discuss future collaborations that could expand on my current project at Tech. Additionally, when I spoke with project managers and engineers within the private sector, I was further motivated by the realization that there is both interest and need for the research we are doing \u2014 not only to advance science but also to help those restoring our waterways apply the most promising and sustainable techniques available. This conference was well worth it and is already on my calendar for next time.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u2014 \u003Cstrong\u003EMaggie Straight\u003C\/strong\u003E, Ph.D. Candidate, Ocean Science and Engineering\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cOne of the best parts of the conference was spending time with current and former Ph.D. students like \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/maggie-e-straight\/\u0022\u003EMaggie Straight\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/sarah-hope-roney\/\u0022\u003ESarah Roney\u003C\/a\u003E (Ph.D. OSE 2025). Maggie\u2019s research characterizes bacteria-algae interactions in micro-algae systems, while Sarah worked on oyster ecosystems during her time at Georgia Tech. What struck me about our conversation was that the principles of resilience show up at every scale. Both Maggie and Sarah are exploring how foundational species \u2014 from micro-algae to oysters \u2014 create the conditions for entire ecosystems to thrive. This is exactly the kind of systems thinking we need. I am proud to see the next generation of scientists translating their research into real-world impact and grateful for conversations that connect the dots across disciplines and scales.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u2014\u0026nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBeril Toktay\u003C\/strong\u003E, Executive Director, Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems; Regents\u2019 Professor; and Brady Family Chair in Management, Scheller College of Business\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EThe Georgia Resilience Conference highlighted the power of collaboration \u2014 connecting scientists, policymakers, and community leaders who are shaping Georgia\u2019s response to a changing climate. BBISS remains dedicated to amplifying these voices and translating research into action that strengthens resilience across the Southeast.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u2014 Written by Seungho Lee\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA statewide conversation about the future of Georgia\u0027s environmental resilience took place at Jekyll Island. The island\u0027s natural beauty and vitality served as both inspiration and an urgent reminder of what communities across Georgia stand to lose without coordinated action.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Faculty, administration, research fellows, students, collaborators, and Georgia Tech President Emeritus and keynote speaker G. Wayne Clough brought diverse perspectives to discussions ranging from coastal vulnerability to data-driven decision-making."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2025-11-06 21:57:08","changed_gmt":"2025-11-06 22:00:50","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-11-06T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-11-06T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678568":{"id":"678568","type":"image","title":"GA_Resiliency_Conf_GT_Group_cropped.jpg","body":null,"created":"1762466258","gmt_created":"2025-11-06 21:57:38","changed":"1762466258","gmt_changed":"2025-11-06 21:57:38","alt":"The Georgia Tech contingent gather for a group photo at the 2025 Georgia Resiliency Conference.","file":{"fid":"262620","name":"GA_Resiliency_Conf_GT_Group_cropped.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/06\/GA_Resiliency_Conf_GT_Group_cropped.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/06\/GA_Resiliency_Conf_GT_Group_cropped.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":891865,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/06\/GA_Resiliency_Conf_GT_Group_cropped.jpg?itok=sQRM3fi7"}}},"media_ids":["678568"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"132","name":"Institute Leadership"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"194611","name":"State Impact"},{"id":"194836","name":"Sustainability"}],"keywords":[{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Research Communications Program Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686009":{"#nid":"686009","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech\u2019s Soft Robotics Flips the Script on \u2018The Terminator\u2019","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EPop culture has often depicted robots as cold, metallic, and menacing, built for domination, not compassion. But at Georgia Tech, the future of robotics is softer, smarter, and designed to help.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWhen people think of robots, they usually imagine something like\u0026nbsp;\u003Cem\u003EThe Terminator\u003C\/em\u003E\u0026nbsp;or\u0026nbsp;\u003Cem\u003ERoboCop\u003C\/em\u003E: big, rigid, and made of metal,\u201d said\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/w-hong-yeo\u0022\u003EHong Yeo\u003C\/a\u003E, the G.P. \u201cBud\u201d Peterson and Valerie H. Peterson Professor in the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EGeorge W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E. \u201cBut what we\u2019re developing is the opposite. These artificial muscles are soft, flexible, and responsive \u2014 more like human tissue than machine.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EYeo\u2019s latest study, published in\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/pubs.rsc.org\/en\/content\/articlelanding\/2025\/mh\/d5mh00236b\u0022 title=\u0022https:\/\/pubs.rsc.org\/en\/content\/articlelanding\/2025\/mh\/d5mh00236b\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EMaterials Horizons\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, explores AI-powered muscles made from lifelike materials paired with intelligent control systems. The technology learns from the body and adapts in real time, creating motion that feels natural, responsive, and safe enough to support recovery.\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMuscles That Think, Materials That Feel\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETraditional robotics relies on steel, wires, and motors, but rarely captures the nuances of human motion. Yeo\u2019s research takes a different approach. He uses\u0026nbsp;hierarchically structured fibers, which are flexible materials built in layers, much like muscle and tendon. They can sense, adapt, and even \u201cremember\u201d how they\u2019ve moved before.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYeo trains machine learning algorithms to adjust those pliable materials in real time with the right amount of force or flexibility for each task.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cThese muscles don\u2019t only respond to commands,\u201d Yeo said. \u201cThey learn from experience. They can adapt and self-correct, which makes motion smoother and more natural.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe result of that research is deeply human. For someone recovering from a stroke or limb loss, each deliberate movement rebuilds not just strength \u2014 it rebuilds confidence, independence, and a sense of self.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA Glove That Gives Freedom Back\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne of the first real-world applications is a\u0026nbsp;prosthetic glove powered by artificial muscles\u003Cstrong\u003E (\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/pubs.acs.org\/doi\/10.1021\/acsnano.4c15530\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Epublished in \u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EACS Nano\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E, 2025\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E)\u003C\/strong\u003E, a device that behaves more like a helping hand than a mechanical tool. Traditional prosthetics rely on rigid motors and preset motions, but Yeo\u2019s design mirrors the natural give-and-take of real muscle.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInside the glove, thin layers of stretchable fibers and sensors contract, twist, and flex in sync with the wearer\u2019s intent. The glove can fine-tune grip strength, reduce tremors, and respond instantly to the user\u2019s movements, bringing dexterity back to everyday life.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat kind of precision matters most in the smallest tasks: fastening a button, lifting a glass, holding a child\u2019s hand.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cThese aren\u2019t just movements,\u201d Yeo said. \u201cThey\u2019re freedoms.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor Yeo, the idea of restoring freedom through movement has driven his research from the very beginning.\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA Mission Rooted in Loss\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/news.gatech.edu\/news\/2024\/05\/14\/family-loss-brings-about-medical-breakthrough\u0022\u003EYeo\u0027s work is deeply personal.\u003C\/a\u003E His path to biomedical engineering began with loss \u2014 the sudden death of his father while Yeo was still in college. That moment reshaped his sense of purpose, redirecting his focus from machines that move to technologies that heal.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cInitially, I was thinking about designing cars,\u201d he said. \u201cBut after my father\u2019s death, I kind of woke up. Maybe I could do something that helps save someone\u2019s life.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat purpose continues to guide\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.yeolabgatech.com\/\u0022\u003Ehis lab\u2019s work today\u003C\/a\u003E, building technologies that help people recover what they\u2019ve lost.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAchieving that vision, however, means tackling some of engineering\u2019s toughest challenges.\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESoft Machines, Hard Problems\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECreating lifelike muscles isn\u2019t easy. They need to be soft but strong, responsive but safe. And they must avoid triggering the body\u2019s immune system. That means building materials that can survive inside the body \u2014 and learn to belong there.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe always think about not only function, but adaptability,\u201d Yeo said. \u201cIf it\u2019s going to be part of someone\u2019s body, it has to work with them, not against them.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHis team calibrates these synthetic fibers like precision instruments \u2014 tested, adjusted, and re-tuned until they operate in sync with the body\u2019s natural movements. Over time, they develop a kind of \u201cmuscle memory,\u201d adapting fluidly to changing conditions. That dynamic adaptability, Yeo explained, is what separates a machine from a prosthetic that truly feels alive.\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFrom Collaboration to Innovation\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESolving problems this complex requires more than one discipline. It takes an entire ecosystem of collaboration. Yeo\u2019s lab brings together experts in mechanical engineering, materials science, medicine, and computer science to design smarter, safer devices.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cYou can\u2019t solve this kind of problem in isolation,\u201d he said. \u201cWe need all of it \u2014 polymers, artificial intelligence, biomechanics \u2014 working together.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat collaborative model is supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF), the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nih.gov\/\u0022\u003ENational Institutes of Health\u003C\/a\u003E, and Georgia Tech\u2019s\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/matter-systems.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EInstitute for Matter and Systems.\u003C\/a\u003E In 2023, Yeo received a\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/news.gatech.edu\/news\/2024\/08\/30\/3-million-nsf-grant-will-support-training-sustainable-medical-devices\u0022\u003E$3 million NSF grant\u003C\/a\u003E to train the next generation of engineers building smart medical technology.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHis team now works closely with healthcare providers and industry partners to bring these devices out of the lab and into patients\u2019 lives.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe Future You Can Feel\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EThe future of robotics, according to Yeo, won\u2019t be defined by power or complexity but by feel.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cIf it feels foreign, people won\u2019t use it,\u201d he said. \u201cBut if it feels like part of you, that\u2019s when it can truly change lives.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EIt\u2019s the opposite of \u003Cem\u003EThe Terminator\u003C\/em\u003E, where machines replace us. Yeo is designing these machines to help us reclaim ourselves.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech researchers are redefining what robotics can feel like \u2014 developing AI-powered artificial muscles made from life-like materials that move and adapt like human tissue.\u003Cbr\u003ELed by mechanical engineering professor \u003Cstrong\u003EHong Yeo\u003C\/strong\u003E, the team\u2019s work flips the Hollywood image of cold, metal machines into one of soft, intelligent systems built for healing and human connection.\u003Cbr\u003ETheir latest study in \u003Cem\u003EMaterials Horizons\u003C\/em\u003E could transform prosthetics and rehabilitation, helping people regain motion, strength, and confidence.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"AI-powered artificial muscles made from pliable materials are reshaping recovery, from stroke rehabilitation to prosthetic design. These machines help people regain motion, strength, and confidence."}],"uid":"36410","created_gmt":"2025-10-27 14:24:17","changed_gmt":"2025-11-06 17:00:25","author":"mazriel3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-10-27T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-10-27T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678452":{"id":"678452","type":"image","title":"Artificial Muscle Sensors","body":"\u003Cp\u003EA mock-up of an AI-powered glove with muscles made from lifelike materials paired with intelligent control systems. The technology learns from the body and adapts in real time, creating motion that feels natural, responsive, and safe enough to support recovery.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1761575490","gmt_created":"2025-10-27 14:31:30","changed":"1761576142","gmt_changed":"2025-10-27 14:42:22","alt":"A mock-up of an AI-powered glove","file":{"fid":"262476","name":"artificial-muscle-sensors.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/27\/artificial-muscle-sensors.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/27\/artificial-muscle-sensors.png","mime":"image\/png","size":767022,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/10\/27\/artificial-muscle-sensors.png?itok=Txaxw9b0"}}},"media_ids":["678452"],"groups":[{"id":"660369","name":"Matter and Systems"},{"id":"66220","name":"Neuro"},{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"194606","name":"Artificial Intelligence"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187812","name":"artificial intelligence (AI)"},{"id":"190245","name":"Robotics and Artificial Intelligence"},{"id":"182705","name":"artificial limbs"},{"id":"12939","name":"Controlling Prosthetic Limbs"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"},{"id":"172970","name":"go-neuro"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"193655","name":"Artificial Intelligence at Georgia Tech"},{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"},{"id":"193652","name":"Matter and Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71881","name":"Science and Technology"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EMichelle Azriel Writer\/Editor, Research Communications\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["mazriel3@gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686255":{"#nid":"686255","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Say When: GTRI\u2019s SatisfAI Game Helps You Determine How Much AI You Want in Your Life","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWould you let artificial intelligence (AI) mow your lawn? File your taxes? Defend you in a trial?\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo help people answer these types of questions, researchers at the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) have developed SatisfAI, a serious tabletop and digital card game that encourages players to consider how much agency they are willing to share with AI-based systems to solve real-world problems.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESatisfAI uses a player-judge mechanic to promote both introspection and consideration of the preferences of others, indexing real-world objectives against Max Neef\u2019s model of fundamental human needs, and asks players to indicate their preferred level of autonomy, from choices such as \u201cNo AI,\u201d \u201cAssistant,\u201d and \u201cSurrogate.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe wanted to create a tool to better understand how people prefer to interact with AI,\u201d said Moon Kim, a GTRI senior research associate and project co-lead. \u201cWe focused on two key questions: Would you use AI for a particular task? And if so, how much automation would you prefer? Our motivation was to elicit insights that could inform the design and alignment of AI systems to human needs.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOriginally supported by GTRI\u2019s Independent Research and Development (IRAD) program between 2021 and 2023, the game has since been played by approximately 270 K-12 teachers and education professionals across Georgia. It has received enthusiastic feedback from educators, who value the meaningful conversations it sparks during and after gameplay.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne teacher shared the following: \u201cWhat SatisfAI gives teachers is a humanizing experience of talking with each other about AI based on their values, a conversation that was likely often skipped over when ChatGPT was released upon the world.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother said: \u201cSatisfAI causes you to think about what using AI really means and how it impacts you.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor classroom use, SatisfAI is currently being customized to help students explore the tradeoffs of AI, fostering critical thinking and encouraging intentional decision-making about their learner agency. Through gameplay and guided discussions, GTRI aims to equip teachers and students with valuable insights as part of preparing for an AI-driven future in education.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn each round of the game, which is playable in person and online, one player acts as the judge. The judge player is given a real-world objective and is asked to decide whether AI should solve this objective, and how much agency they prefer to retain.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor example, a scenario might state the objective of taking care of a sick family member, asking the judge to imagine what different solutions might exist for various levels of AI automation \u2014 from a robotic assistant, an intelligent medication dispenser, a medical information advisor, or possibly no AI at all \u2014 then decide which level they prefer. Other players then try to predict the judge\u2019s choice, earning points when they match the judge, with the highest score winning.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cUltimately, SatisfAI is not based on the assumption that more AI is naturally better,\u201d said Ethan Trewhitt, a GTRI senior research engineer and project co-lead. \u201cInstead, it investigates how much automation people want and where they want AI involved in their life.\u201dLooking ahead, the researchers plan to expand the game\u2019s reach to more K-12 partners across the state and beyond, with future considerations to extend the game to industry partners and government sponsors to further explore the tradeoffs and broader implications of AI adoption and its impact on human agency.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you are interested in learning more about SatisfAI, please contact Moon Kim at \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:moon.kim@gtri.gatech.edu\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Emoon.kim@gtri.gatech.edu\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E or Ethan Trewhitt at \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:ethan.trewhitt@gtri.gatech.edu\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Eethan.trewhitt@gtri.gatech.edu\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWriter: Anna Akins\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003EPhotos: Sean McNeil\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003EGTRI Communications\u003Cbr\u003EGeorgia Tech Research Institute\u003Cbr\u003EAtlanta, Georgia USA\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor more information, please contact \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:gtri.media@gtri.gatech.edu\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Egtri.media@gtri.gatech.edu\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo learn more about GTRI, visit: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/gtri.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGeorgia Tech Research Institute | GTRI\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EResearchers created SatisfAI to gather insights crucial for designing AI systems that align with human needs.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Researchers created SatisfAI to gather insights crucial for designing AI systems that align with human needs. "}],"uid":"35874","created_gmt":"2025-11-06 14:48:03","changed_gmt":"2025-11-06 14:59:22","author":"Anna Akins","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-11-06T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2025-11-06T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678559":{"id":"678559","type":"image","title":"2025_0804_image_ICL_SatisfAI-Card-Game_05.JPG","body":"\u003Cp\u003EIn SatisfAI, players take turns as the judge, deciding how much AI involvement they prefer in real-world scenarios, while others predict their choice to earn points (Photo Credit: Sean McNeil, GTRI).\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1762440545","gmt_created":"2025-11-06 14:49:05","changed":"1762440545","gmt_changed":"2025-11-06 14:49:05","alt":"A photo of two GTRI researchers playing a game they developed called SatisfAI. ","file":{"fid":"262611","name":"2025_0804_image_ICL_SatisfAI-Card-Game_05.JPG","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/06\/2025_0804_image_ICL_SatisfAI-Card-Game_05.JPG","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/06\/2025_0804_image_ICL_SatisfAI-Card-Game_05.JPG","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":16059294,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/06\/2025_0804_image_ICL_SatisfAI-Card-Game_05.JPG?itok=lc35W5R9"}},"678558":{"id":"678558","type":"image","title":"2025_0804_image_ICL_SatisfAI-Card-Game_15--2-.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EGTRI Senior Research Associate Moon Kim (left) and GTRI Senior Research Engineer Ethan Trewhitt co-developed SatisfAI to help players reflect on how much agency they\u2019d share with AI to solve real-world problems. So far, about 270 K-12 educators in Georgia have played, with expansion plans underway (Photo Credit: Sean McNeil, GTRI).\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1762440545","gmt_created":"2025-11-06 14:49:05","changed":"1762440545","gmt_changed":"2025-11-06 14:49:05","alt":"A photo of two GTRI researchers standing in front of a GTRI sign. ","file":{"fid":"262610","name":"2025_0804_image_ICL_SatisfAI-Card-Game_15--2-.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/06\/2025_0804_image_ICL_SatisfAI-Card-Game_15--2-.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/11\/06\/2025_0804_image_ICL_SatisfAI-Card-Game_15--2-.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":2101901,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/11\/06\/2025_0804_image_ICL_SatisfAI-Card-Game_15--2-.jpg?itok=8ySxRM_1"}}},"media_ids":["678559","678558"],"groups":[{"id":"1276","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI)"}],"categories":[{"id":"130","name":"Alumni"},{"id":"42911","name":"Education"},{"id":"194612","name":"Workforce Development"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"415","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute"},{"id":"11243","name":"Information and Communications Laboratory"},{"id":"187812","name":"artificial intelligence (AI)"},{"id":"192019","name":"K-12 education STEM research"},{"id":"46351","name":"K-12 education"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"193653","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EFor more information, please contact \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:gtri.media@gtri.gatech.edu\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Egtri.media@gtri.gatech.edu\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWriter: Anna Akins (anna.akins@gtri.gatech.edu).\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"653573":{"#nid":"653573","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Research Test news item ","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThis text is added in Mercury. This is to see what happens to the text I added in Drupal. Changed the alt text as well. MARCH 23, 2023.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis is a bunch of greek text to have something here...\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELorem ipsum dolor sit amet,\u003C\/strong\u003E consectetur adipiscing elit. Morbi at sollicitudin lectus. Aenean tempor lacus vel urna semper, ac eleifend ligula rhoncus. Fusce mattis neque sed est faucibus, ac lobortis risus pellentesque. Nullam semper velit non tincidunt vulputate. Suspendisse commodo turpis eu ligula commodo iaculis. Praesent semper, dui ut facilisis tempor, sem diam maximus purus, hendrerit sagittis justo justo et ex. Integer sagittis purus aliquam orci luctus molestie. Ut ex neque, mollis sed ullamcorper finibus, fermentum in justo. Donec condimentum et sapien eu facilisis. Quisque ullamcorper risus metus, a ultrices urna efficitur at.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn ut diam sit amet enim cursus posuere. Curabitur at lorem magna. Nam vestibulum finibus ex ac ultricies. Phasellus est sem, facilisis at rhoncus in, pretium porttitor libero. Integer luctus est nec posuere bibendum. Phasellus iaculis finibus porta. Fusce iaculis placerat sagittis. Proin sed facilisis justo. Etiam et metus facilisis, commodo nunc ut, egestas arcu. Nunc commodo, tortor vel mollis blandit, libero dui aliquet tellus, eu interdum leo mi at lectus. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENullam in ornare quam. Quisque blandit nunc lacinia elit ornare fringilla. Praesent molestie justo nec neque venenatis, id dictum dolor convallis. Phasellus eu orci vitae mauris blandit lacinia sed sit amet arcu. \u003Cstrong\u003EVestibulum porta vitae diam finibus\u003C\/strong\u003E porta. Nam vitae risus quis libero bibendum facilisis. Mauris auctor mi id lectus sodales, ut molestie massa convallis. Sed elit ipsum, ullamcorper at ornare sit amet, ultrices quis nisl. Nulla facilisi. Quisque dignissim tincidunt \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/apple.com\u0022\u003Eligula, eu tristique magna sollicitudin\u003C\/a\u003E eu.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENunc varius massa tortor, sit amet mattis orci condimentum sit amet. Proin et mattis tortor, ut malesuada ex. Aliquam erat volutpat. Mauris ac gravida diam, ac mattis risus. Nullam accumsan efficitur aliquet. Maecenas mauris diam, consequat eget turpis eu, facilisis semper lacus. Suspendisse ut metus sit amet nulla lacinia facilisis.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"Research Test news item for feed creation"}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EResearch Test news item for feed creation\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Research Test news item for feed creation"}],"uid":"28778","created_gmt":"2021-12-09 17:47:14","changed_gmt":"2025-11-03 17:43:42","author":"Timothy Whelan","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2024-02-16T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2024-02-16T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"671188":{"id":"671188","type":"image","title":"Tim Test image for news items","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThis is a description about Frankie on my computer goofing off while Boris tries to get close a snuggle.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1689788093","gmt_created":"2023-07-19 17:34:53","changed":"1724787339","gmt_changed":"2024-08-27 19:35:39","alt":"Frankie and Boris on the couch playing","file":{"fid":"254203","name":"IMG_3960.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2023\/07\/19\/IMG_3960.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2023\/07\/19\/IMG_3960.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":2840391,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2023\/07\/19\/IMG_3960.jpeg?itok=iMhndDx5"}},"653589":{"id":"653589","type":"image","title":"Research Test Image 002","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThis is a description about the good boy Boris. He loves to be outside in cooler weather.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1639148311","gmt_created":"2021-12-10 14:58:31","changed":"1724787522","gmt_changed":"2024-08-27 19:38:42","alt":"this is alt text for boris","file":{"fid":"247901","name":"research-test-002.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/research-test-002.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/research-test-002.png","mime":"image\/png","size":4097782,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/images\/research-test-002.png?itok=x1QwrrUr"}},"653587":{"id":"653587","type":"image","title":"Research Test Image .001","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThis description is about a screen shot of a water color video.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1639147499","gmt_created":"2021-12-10 14:44:59","changed":"1724787385","gmt_changed":"2024-08-27 19:36:25","alt":"Research Test Image 001","file":{"fid":"247900","name":"research-test.001.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/research-test.001.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/research-test.001.png","mime":"image\/png","size":500577,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/images\/research-test.001.png?itok=pPlyuytL"}}},"media_ids":["671188","653589","653587"],"related_links":[{"url":"http:\/\/whelandesign.com","title":"Old Site"},{"url":"http:\/\/apple.com","title":"My computer"}],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ETim Whelan \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/whelandesign.com\u0022\u003Ewebsite\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["tim.whelan@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686100":{"#nid":"686100","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Alumni Spotlight: Ann Dunkin, SEI Distinguished External Fellow","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAnn Dunkin joined the Georgia Tech Strategic Energy Institute (\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.research.gatech.edu\/energy\u0022\u003ESEI\u003C\/a\u003E) as a distinguished external fellow in April. Before that, she served as the chief information officer at the U.S. Department of Energy, where she managed the department\u2019s information technology portfolio and modernization; oversaw its cybersecurity efforts; led technology innovation and digital transformation; and enabled collaboration across the agency. Dunkin also served in former President Barack Obama\u2019s administration as chief information officer of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOther previous roles include chief strategy and innovation officer at Dell Technologies; chief information officer for the County of Santa Clara, California; chief technology officer for Palo Alto Unified School District in California; and leadership positions at Hewlett Packard focused on engineering, research and development, IT, manufacturing engineering, software quality, and operations.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDunkin is a published author, most recently of the book \u003Cem\u003EIndustrial Digital Transformation\u003C\/em\u003E, and a frequent speaker on topics such as government technology modernization, digital transformation, and organizational development. She received the 2022 Capital CIO Large Enterprise ORBIE Award and has earned numerous honors, including Washington, D.C.\u2019s Top 50 Women in Technology for 2015 and 2016; \u003Cem\u003EComputerworld\u003C\/em\u003E\u2019s Premier 100 Technology Leaders for 2016; StateScoop\u2019s Top 50 Women in Technology list for 2017; FedScoop\u2019s Golden Gov Executive of the Year in 2016 and 2021; and FedScoop\u2019s Best Bosses in Federal IT 2022.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDunkin holds a master of science degree and a bachelor of industrial engineering degree, both from Georgia Tech. She is a licensed professional engineer in California and Washington state. In 2018, she was inducted into Georgia Tech\u2019s Academy of Distinguished Engineering Alumni.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBelow is a short Q\u0026amp;A with Dunkin reflecting on how the Institute influenced her career.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow did your Georgia Tech education shape your approach to leadership and innovation throughout your career?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMy Georgia Tech education instilled the core ideas and values that we see in our graduates today, and that made me successful in my career. You can\u2019t graduate from Georgia Tech without learning how to be part of a team and to lead through influence, which may be the hardest part of leadership. It\u2019s far easier, although less effective, to lead through authority. In addition, the concept of grit has informed my approach to my roles \u2014 that my team and I will work hard together to find solutions to difficult challenges and that no challenge is too hard if we set our minds to accomplishing it.\u0026nbsp;This may seem like an unusual connection to innovation, but it\u2019s not.\u0026nbsp;A lot of people think that innovation is about a light bulb going off in your head with a great idea.\u0026nbsp;Sure, that happens sometimes. But the idea is only the spark of innovation. Innovation is about the hard work to turn an idea into reality \u2014 and that\u2019s why it takes grit. You have to do the work and not be discouraged by setbacks. \u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat does it mean to you to return to Georgia Tech as a distinguished external fellow?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst, coming back to Georgia Tech feels like the ultimate full circle moment. It\u2019s an honor to be invited back as a distinguished external fellow and a distinguished professor of the practice. It shows that the leadership team at Georgia Tech, one of the best engineering institutions in the world, respects the work that I\u2019ve done in my career.\u0026nbsp;Second, this is an exciting opportunity to shift gears in my career, continue to do interesting work, and contribute at a high level.\u0026nbsp;I\u2019m excited to be here and look forward to what we\u2019re going to accomplish together.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat aspect of your collaboration with the SEI are you most passionate about?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are so many things that it\u2019s hard to identify just one.\u0026nbsp;The SEI is at the center of the future of energy, working to solve difficult problems to ensure that we have abundant, affordable, clean energy.\u0026nbsp;During my time at the Energy Department, I developed a strong interest in energy technology, including next-generation nuclear, fusion, and battery technologies.\u0026nbsp;I\u2019m also interested in grid resilience, particularly permitting, planning, and cybersecurity. I hope to help the SEI deepen collaboration with the Energy Department\u2019s labs and to engage other partners as well.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow do you see the SEI influencing the energy landscape of our nation?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe SEI has the ability to influence at a level that exceeds its size.\u0026nbsp;It can drive collaboration between Georgia Tech, national labs, and the private sector on critical issues in the energy sector from research to implementation.\u0026nbsp;I like that the SEI embraces its role as a convener, bringing all the parties together to make something happen.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAnn Dunkin joined the Georgia Tech Strategic Energy Institute (SEI) as a distinguished external fellow in April.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"A short Q\u0026A with Ann Dunkin reflecting on how the Institute influenced her career."}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2025-10-31 11:49:12","changed_gmt":"2025-10-31 20:55:15","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-10-24T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-10-24T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678507":{"id":"678507","type":"image","title":"AnnDunkinInformal-cropped-web.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAnn Dunkin\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1761911508","gmt_created":"2025-10-31 11:51:48","changed":"1761911508","gmt_changed":"2025-10-31 11:51:48","alt":"Portrait of Ann Dunkin","file":{"fid":"262555","name":"AnnDunkinInformal-cropped-web.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/31\/AnnDunkinInformal-cropped-web.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/31\/AnnDunkinInformal-cropped-web.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":311548,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/10\/31\/AnnDunkinInformal-cropped-web.jpg?itok=oX6uqsOz"}}},"media_ids":["678507"],"groups":[{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EPriya Devarajan\u003C\/a\u003E || Research Communications Program Manager\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.research.gatech.edu\/energy\u0022\u003EGeorgia Tech Strategic Energy Institute\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"667926":{"#nid":"667926","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Mitigating Climate Change Through Restoration of Coastal Ecosystems","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EOne of the primary drivers of climate change is excess greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Mitigating climate change in the coming century will require both decarbonization \u2014 electrifying the power grid or reducing fossil fuel-guzzling transportation \u2014 \u0026nbsp;and removing already existing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, a process called carbon dioxide removal.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EResearchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology and Yale University are proposing a novel pathway through which coastal ecosystem restoration can permanently capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Seagrass and mangroves \u2014 known as blue carbon ecosystems \u2014 naturally capture carbon through photosynthesis, which converts carbon dioxide into living tissue.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cMangroves and seagrasses extract carbon dioxide from the atmosphere all day long and turn it into biomass,\u201d said \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/eas.gatech.edu\/people\/reinhard-dr-chris\u0022\u003EChris Reinhard\u003C\/a\u003E, an associate professor in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/eas.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences\u003C\/a\u003E (EAS). \u201cSome of this biomass can get buried in sediments, and if it stays there, then you\u2019ve basically just removed carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERestoring these ecosystems could potentially benefit local flora and fauna and help to energize coastal economies. But Reinhard and colleagues now suggest that restoring them could also remove additional carbon through a novel pathway while combating increasing acidity in the ocean. \u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn May, they presented their research in \u201c\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s41893-023-01128-2\u0022\u003EOcean Alkalinity Enhancement Through Restoration of Blue Carbon Ecosystems\u003C\/a\u003E\u201d in\u0026nbsp;\u003Cem\u003ENature Sustainability\u003C\/em\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECarbon 101\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are two major types of carbon that cycle through the Earth system: organic carbon and inorganic carbon. Organic carbon is contained in living matter, such as algae, plants, animals, and even humans. This form of carbon can remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere temporarily, but if it becomes buried in sediments at the seafloor, it can lead to permanent carbon dioxide removal. Inorganic carbon can also be found in many forms, including rocks and minerals, but is present as a significant dissolved component of ocean water. Roughly 30% of the carbon emitted by human activities since the industrial revolution is now stored as dissolved inorganic carbon in the ocean. Although carbon dioxide stored as organic carbon can be disrupted, effectively redistributing carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere, carbon dioxide removal by inorganic carbon is potentially much more durable.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cEven if you change the way a coastal ecosystem restoration project is operating, potentially remobilizing previously stored organic carbon, inorganic carbon capture is largely a one-way street,\u201d said Mojtaba Fakhraee, lead author of the study and former postdoctoral researcher in EAS. \u201cSo even if a massive ecosystem disruption in the future undoes organic carbon storage, the inorganic carbon that has been captured will still be in the ocean permanently.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECapturing Carbon, Counteracting Acidity\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECoastal ecosystems naturally remove carbon from the atmosphere and provide a range of environmental and economic benefits to coastal communities, but many human interventions have caused extensive degradation or destruction of natural coastal environments. Planting more mangroves and seagrasses, maintaining them, and protecting the overall ecosystem can restore their functioning and lead to additional carbon removal from the atmosphere. Reinvigorating coastal ecosystems as a technique for mitigating carbon emissions is not a new idea, but past research has focused on carbon removal through organic carbon burial and has not explored the potential for carbon removal through the formation of inorganic carbon.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother major result of human fossil fuel use beyond climate change is ocean acidification from carbon dioxide in the atmosphere dissolving in the water and driving down the pH of the ocean, which can have severe, negative impacts on many organisms like corals. Storing carbon dioxide as inorganic carbon in the ocean could help mitigate this, because the chemical processes that lead to carbon capture as inorganic carbon involves alkalinizing ocean waters.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe basic idea here is that you are shifting the acid-base balance of the ocean to drive conversion of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere to inorganic carbon in the ocean,\u201d Reinhard said. \u201cThis means that the process can help to partially offset the negative ecological consequences of ocean acidification.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EModeling Carbon Capture\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo explore how effective restoring coastal ecosystems could be for inorganic carbon capture, the researchers built a numerical model to represent the chemistry and physics of sedimentary systems \u2014 the complex mixture of solid particles, living organisms, and seawater that accumulates at the seafloor. A key advance of the model is that it specifically tracks the potential benefits of restored mangrove or seagrass ecosystems and their impacts on organic and inorganic carbon cycling. It also calculates the effects of other greenhouse gases, such as methane, that can sometimes be created in the process of restoring mangrove and seagrass ecosystems.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThis model comes up with representations for the rates of carbon transformation in the sediment based on how much mangrove is growing above the sediment,\u201d said Noah Planavsky, senior author on the study and professor of Earth and planetary sciences at Yale. \u201cWe found that across an extremely large range of scenarios, restoration of blue carbon ecosystems leads to durable carbon dioxide removal as dissolved inorganic carbon.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe team hopes this research could provide an impetus to protect current coastal ecosystems and economically incentivize restoration of degraded ecosystems, potentially as a new form of carbon offset.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cCompanies that are trying to offset their own emissions could potentially purchase carbon removal through funding restoration of coastal ecosystems,\u201d Reinhard said. \u201cThis could help rebuild these ecosystems and all of the environmental benefits they provide, while leading to durable carbon dioxide removal from the atmosphere.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECITATION: Fakhraee, M., Planavsky, N.J. \u0026amp; Reinhard, C.T. Ocean alkalinity enhancement through restoration of blue carbon ecosystems.\u0026nbsp;\u003Cem\u003ENat Sustain\u003C\/em\u003E\u0026nbsp;(2023). \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41893-023-01128-2\u0022\u003Ehttps:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41893-023-01128-2\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EResearchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology and Yale University are proposing a novel pathway through which coastal ecosystem restoration can permanently capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Seagrass and mangroves \u2014 known as blue carbon ecosystems \u2014 naturally capture carbon through photosynthesis, which converts carbon dioxide into living tissue.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology and Yale University are proposing a novel pathway through which coastal ecosystem restoration can permanently capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. "}],"uid":"34541","created_gmt":"2023-05-30 15:07:36","changed_gmt":"2025-10-30 14:40:50","author":"Tess Malone","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2023-05-30T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2023-05-30T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"670885":{"id":"670885","type":"image","title":"GettyImages-520865516.jpg","body":null,"created":"1685459357","gmt_created":"2023-05-30 15:09:17","changed":"1685459357","gmt_changed":"2023-05-30 15:09:17","alt":"mangroves","file":{"fid":"253849","name":"GettyImages-520865516.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2023\/05\/30\/GettyImages-520865516.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2023\/05\/30\/GettyImages-520865516.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":9603906,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2023\/05\/30\/GettyImages-520865516.jpg?itok=D9WajdCq"}}},"media_ids":["670885"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"192254","name":"cos-climate"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71911","name":"Earth and Environment"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ETess Malone, Senior Research Writer\/Editor\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["tess.malone@gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"686048":{"#nid":"686048","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Community Spotlight - Ali Sarhadi","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/d7.eas.gatech.edu\/people\/sarhadi-dr-ali\u0022\u003EAli Sarhadi\u003C\/a\u003E and his research team at Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sarhadi.eas.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EClimate Risk and Extreme Dynamics Lab\u003C\/a\u003E are focused on a growing threat: hurricanes fueled by a warming climate. These storms are no longer behaving like those of the past \u2014 and his research is helping explain why. \u201cPeople often think hurricanes are about wind, but water is by far the deadliest part,\u201d\u0026nbsp;says\u0026nbsp;Sarhadi, assistant professor in Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/eas.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u201cWhat\u2019s alarming now is how quickly storms intensify and how much flooding they unleash.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile the future frequency of hurricanes remains uncertain, scientists agree on key trends: A warmer atmosphere holds more moisture, fueling heavier rainfall. Rising sea levels are amplifying storm surge. Warmer ocean temperatures fuel rapid storm growth. When these factors combine, researchers call this phenomenon hurricane-induced compound flooding.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESarhadi studies\u0026nbsp;this phenomenon. \u201cIn a warming climate, this type of flooding is becoming more frequent and more severe,\u201d he explains. \u201cWith U.S. hurricane damages exceeding $28 billion annually, most loss of life and destruction comes from water, not wind,\u201d says Sarhadi, who joined Georgia Tech in 2024 after postdoctoral work in MIT\u2019s Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELearning From Hurricane Sandy\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBuilding on insights from his postdoctoral work, Sarhadi has developed advanced physics-based and machine learning frameworks to model hurricane hazards such as storm surge and compound flooding and assess their potential economic impacts on coastal infrastructure. His models predict both hazard magnitude and how risk may evolve.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHe applied this framework to analyze\u0026nbsp;Hurricane Sandy, which struck New York City in 2012, causing $70 billion in damage. \u201cOur analysis shows that flooding events like Sandy may occur once every 150 years in the current climate,\u201d Sarhadi explains. \u201cBut with warming oceans and shifting storm dynamics, that timeline could shrink to once every 60 years by midcentury and once every 30 years by century\u2019s end.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELeveraging Georgia Tech\u2019s Multidisciplinary Strengths\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESarhadi says that joining Georgia Tech has opened the door to new interdisciplinary collaborations aimed at advancing hurricane forecasting and strengthening the resilience of coastal regions. From seawalls to AI-enhanced power grids and smarter warning systems, he sees real potential to reduce the vulnerability of communities facing increasingly severe storm impacts.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cI\u2019m excited to be here. It\u2019s a vibrant and supportive community,\u201d Sarhadi says. \u201cThe students are incredibly bright and deeply passionate about science.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHis research draws on the intersection of\u0026nbsp;engineering, physics-based modeling, and AI, reflecting Georgia Tech\u2019s broad strengths in climate resilience and computational science.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn 2024, Sarhadi received a seed grant to advance his research from the Georgia Tech College of Sciences (COS) Climate Frontiers Symposium, co-funded by COS, the Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems, and the Strategic Energy Institute. \u201cGeorgia Tech is strong in every direction,\u201d he adds. \u201cIt\u2019s a highly collaborative environment where everyone is committed to advancing meaningful solutions.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAn Avid Soccer Player and Foodie\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOutside the lab, Sarhadi enjoys traveling and hiking. A longtime soccer enthusiast who once played semi-professionally, he still joins local pickup games. He also enjoys exploring Atlanta\u2019s diverse food scene. \u201cI really like Persian and Mexican cuisine \u2014 there are so many great restaurants here,\u201d he says.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u2014 writen by Anne Wainscott-Sargent\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"Georgia Tech researcher uses physics-based computational modeling to understand and mitigate hurricane risk in the age of climate change."}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAli Sarhadi\u0027s research draws on the intersection of\u0026nbsp;engineering, physics-based modeling, and AI, reflecting Georgia Tech\u2019s broad strengths in climate resilience and computational science.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Ali Sarhadi and his research team at GT\u0027s Climate Risk and Extreme Dynamics Lab are focused on a phenomenon called hurricane-induced compound flooding \u2014 hurricanes fueled by a warming climate."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2025-10-28 15:30:37","changed_gmt":"2025-10-28 20:17:03","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-10-28T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-10-28T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678480":{"id":"678480","type":"image","title":"Ali_Sarhadi_headshot_adjusted.png","body":"\u003Cp\u003EPortrait of Ali Sarhadi.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1761665449","gmt_created":"2025-10-28 15:30:49","changed":"1761665449","gmt_changed":"2025-10-28 15:30:49","alt":"Portrait of Ali Sarhadi.","file":{"fid":"262518","name":"Ali_Sarhadi_headshot_adjusted.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/28\/Ali_Sarhadi_headshot_adjusted.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/28\/Ali_Sarhadi_headshot_adjusted.png","mime":"image\/png","size":392737,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/10\/28\/Ali_Sarhadi_headshot_adjusted.png?itok=8BDNkR1K"}}},"media_ids":["678480"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"},{"id":"1278","name":"College of Sciences"},{"id":"364801","name":"School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences (EAS)"}],"categories":[{"id":"154","name":"Environment"}],"keywords":[{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Research Communications Program Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"684909":{"#nid":"684909","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Saad Bhamla Named 2025 Schmidt Polymath","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ESaad Bhamla of Georgia Tech\u2019s School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (ChBE) is a member of a global cohort of eight scientists and engineers who were named Schmidt Polymaths. They will each receive up to $2.5 million over five years to pursue research in new disciplines or using new methodologies, Schmidt Sciences announced today.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.schmidtsciences.org\/schmidt-science-polymaths\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESchmidt Polymaths\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, the researchers pursue new approaches compared to previous work. The new cohort of polymaths will answer questions like how to expand access to healthcare with low-cost technologies, what happens to our chromosomes when we age and how to create more accurate computer simulations of climate.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.google.com\/search?q=bhamla+lab\u0026amp;sca_esv=73afc9bb409a06fd\u0026amp;sxsrf=AE3TifOfqNlLCdHq4wvr_64y9NXiH73Tcw%3A1758035101256\u0026amp;source=hp\u0026amp;ei=nXzJaLXUDIHJp84Pvf7z8AM\u0026amp;iflsig=AOw8s4IAAAAAaMmKrb7w4pqFvU896hGOX8S7oZ5a32xU\u0026amp;ved=0ahUKEwj1lteNx92PAxWB5MkDHT3_HD4Q4dUDCBo\u0026amp;uact=5\u0026amp;oq=bhamla+lab\u0026amp;gs_lp=Egdnd3Mtd2l6IgpiaGFtbGEgbGFiMgoQIxiABBgnGIoFMgUQABiABDIFEAAYgAQyBhAAGBYYHjIGEAAYFhgeMgYQABgWGB4yCBAAGKIEGIkFMggQABiABBiiBDIIEAAYogQYiQUyCBAAGIAEGKIESIkHUABYsQZwAHgAkAEAmAFPoAHDBaoBAjEwuAEDyAEA-AEBmAIKoALgBcICBBAjGCfCAgoQIxjwBRgnGMkCwgIOEC4YgAQYsQMYgwEYigXCAhEQLhiABBixAxjRAxiDARjHAcICDhAuGIAEGLEDGNEDGMcBwgIFEC4YgATCAggQLhiABBixA8ICCxAuGIAEGLEDGIMBwgIOEAAYgAQYsQMYgwEYigXCAgsQABiABBixAxiDAcICDhAuGIAEGMcBGI4FGK8BwgILEC4YgAQYsQMY5QTCAggQABiABBixA8ICBxAuGIAEGArCAgsQLhiABBjHARivAcICBRAAGO8FmAMAkgcCMTCgB898sgcCMTC4B-AFwgcFMC45LjHIBxg\u0026amp;sclient=gws-wiz\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBhamla\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, associate professor in ChBE@GT, is the first Schmidt Polymath from Georgia Tech. He will develop low-cost technologies to tackle planetary-scale challenges, including AI-enabled point-of-care diagnostics in low-resource environments, and he will also engineer autonomous morphing machines that adapt, evolve and learn like living systems.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe eight selected scientists represent the fifth cohort of the highly selective Schmidt Polymaths program. Awardees must have been tenured\u2014or achieved similar status\u2014within the previous three years. Previous cohorts have used the award to design new sensor devices, perform experiments at atomic resolutions, analyze trees of life with faster and more efficient algorithms, discover new mathematical formulas assisted by AI, and more.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDrawn from universities worldwide and selected through a competitive application process, Schmidt Polymaths are required to demonstrate past ability and future potential to pursue early-stage, novel research that would otherwise be challenging to fund\u2014even without the current dramatic declines in U.S. funding for science.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cOur world is one deeply interconnected system---but to study it more deeply, we\u2019ve divided it into increasingly narrow categories,\u201d said Wendy Schmidt, who co-founded Schmidt Sciences with her husband Eric. \u201cSchmidt Polymaths see the bigger picture, pursue answers beyond boundaries and expand the edges of what\u2019s possible.\u0026nbsp; Their work can help steer\u0026nbsp; us all toward a healthier\u0026nbsp; future, for people and the planet.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAbout Schmidt Sciences\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.schmidtsciences.org\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESchmidt Sciences\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E is a nonprofit organization founded in 2024 by Eric and Wendy Schmidt that works to accelerate scientific knowledge and breakthroughs with the most promising, advanced tools to support a thriving planet. The organization prioritizes research in areas poised for impact including AI and advanced computing, astrophysics, biosciences, climate, and space\u2014as well as supporting researchers in a variety of disciplines through its science systems program.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERELATED: Forbes featured Bhamla in the article: \u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/johndrake\/2025\/09\/16\/saad-bhamla-is-a-polymath\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESaad Bhamla Is A Polymath\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":" Schmidt Polymaths each receive up to $2.5 million over five years to pursue research in new disciplines or using new methodologies"}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESaad \u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.google.com\/search?q=bhamla+lab\u0026amp;sca_esv=73afc9bb409a06fd\u0026amp;sxsrf=AE3TifOfqNlLCdHq4wvr_64y9NXiH73Tcw%3A1758035101256\u0026amp;source=hp\u0026amp;ei=nXzJaLXUDIHJp84Pvf7z8AM\u0026amp;iflsig=AOw8s4IAAAAAaMmKrb7w4pqFvU896hGOX8S7oZ5a32xU\u0026amp;ved=0ahUKEwj1lteNx92PAxWB5MkDHT3_HD4Q4dUDCBo\u0026amp;uact=5\u0026amp;oq=bhamla+lab\u0026amp;gs_lp=Egdnd3Mtd2l6IgpiaGFtbGEgbGFiMgoQIxiABBgnGIoFMgUQABiABDIFEAAYgAQyBhAAGBYYHjIGEAAYFhgeMgYQABgWGB4yCBAAGKIEGIkFMggQABiABBiiBDIIEAAYogQYiQUyCBAAGIAEGKIESIkHUABYsQZwAHgAkAEAmAFPoAHDBaoBAjEwuAEDyAEA-AEBmAIKoALgBcICBBAjGCfCAgoQIxjwBRgnGMkCwgIOEC4YgAQYsQMYgwEYigXCAhEQLhiABBixAxjRAxiDARjHAcICDhAuGIAEGLEDGNEDGMcBwgIFEC4YgATCAggQLhiABBixA8ICCxAuGIAEGLEDGIMBwgIOEAAYgAQYsQMYgwEYigXCAgsQABiABBixAxiDAcICDhAuGIAEGMcBGI4FGK8BwgILEC4YgAQYsQMY5QTCAggQABiABBixA8ICBxAuGIAEGArCAgsQLhiABBjHARivAcICBRAAGO8FmAMAkgcCMTCgB898sgcCMTC4B-AFwgcFMC45LjHIBxg\u0026amp;sclient=gws-wiz\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBhamla\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, associate professor in ChBE@GT, will develop low-cost technologies to tackle planetary-scale challenges, including AI-enabled point-of-care diagnostics in low-resource environments. He will also engineer autonomous morphing machines that adapt, evolve and learn like living systems.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Schmidt Sciences announces next cohort of early-to mid- career scientists to each receive up to $2.5 million to pursue novel research "}],"uid":"27271","created_gmt":"2025-09-16 15:22:23","changed_gmt":"2025-10-24 19:13:27","author":"Brad Dixon","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-09-16T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-09-16T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678015":{"id":"678015","type":"image","title":"bhamla2019.jpeg","body":"\u003Cp\u003ESaad Bhamla, associate professor in Georgia Tech\u0027s School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1758036152","gmt_created":"2025-09-16 15:22:32","changed":"1758036152","gmt_changed":"2025-09-16 15:22:32","alt":"Saad Bhamla","file":{"fid":"261987","name":"bhamla2019.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/16\/bhamla2019.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/16\/bhamla2019.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":102841,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/16\/bhamla2019.jpeg?itok=T0rn3U53"}}},"media_ids":["678015"],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"194606","name":"Artificial Intelligence"},{"id":"138","name":"Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics"},{"id":"141","name":"Chemistry and Chemical Engineering"}],"keywords":[{"id":"2556","name":"artificial intelligence"},{"id":"194768","name":"Schmidt Polymaths"},{"id":"184331","name":"access to healthcare"},{"id":"194391","name":"AI in Healthcare"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"}],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71871","name":"Campus and Community"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EBrad Dixon, braddixon@gatech.edu\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["braddixon@gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"684058":{"#nid":"684058","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Tiny Fans on the Feet of Water Bugs Could Lead to Energy Efficient, Mini Robots","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA new study explains how tiny water bugs use fan-like propellers to zip across streams at speeds up to 120 body lengths per second. The researchers then created a similar fan structure and used it to propel and maneuver an insect-sized robot.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe discovery offers new possibilities for designing small machines that could operate during floods or other challenging situations.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInstead of relying on their muscles, the insects about the size of a grain of rice use the water\u2019s surface tension and elastic forces to morph the ribbon-shaped fans on the end of their legs to slice the water surface and change directions.\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EOnce they understood the mechanism, the team built a self-deployable, one-milligram fan and installed it into an insect-sized robot capable of accelerating, braking, and maneuvering right and left.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe study is featured\u003Cstrong\u003E \u003C\/strong\u003Eon the cover of the journal \u003Cem\u003EScience.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/coe.gatech.edu\/news\/2025\/08\/tiny-fans-feet-water-bugs-could-lead-energy-efficient-mini-robots\u0022\u003ERead the entire story and see the robot in action on the College of Engineering website.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"Researchers built an insect-sized robot that uses surface water and collapsable propellers as an idea to improve fast-moving machines that can operate in rivers or flooded areas. "}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA new study explains how tiny water bugs use fan-like propellers to zip across streams at speeds up to 120 body lengths per second. The researchers then created a similar fan structure and used it to propel and maneuver an insect-sized robot.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe discovery offers new possibilities for designing small machines that could operate during floods or other challenging situations.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"A new study explains how tiny water bugs use fan-like propellers to zip across streams at speeds up to 120 body lengths per second"}],"uid":"27560","created_gmt":"2025-08-21 20:11:55","changed_gmt":"2025-10-24 19:13:09","author":"Jason Maderer","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-08-21T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-08-21T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677766":{"id":"677766","type":"image","title":"water-bug-hero.jpg","body":null,"created":"1755807401","gmt_created":"2025-08-21 20:16:41","changed":"1755807401","gmt_changed":"2025-08-21 20:16:41","alt":"a water bug standing on water","file":{"fid":"261702","name":"water-bug-hero.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/21\/water-bug-hero.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/21\/water-bug-hero.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1405312,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/08\/21\/water-bug-hero.jpg?itok=uud43Bki"}}},"media_ids":["677766"],"groups":[{"id":"142761","name":"IRIM"},{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"152","name":"Robotics"}],"keywords":[{"id":"194701","name":"go-resarchnews"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"},{"id":"39521","name":"Robotics"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71881","name":"Science and Technology"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EJason Maderer\u003Cbr\u003ECollege of Engineering\u003Cbr\u003Emaderer@gatech.edu\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["maderer@gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"685973":{"#nid":"685973","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Peatlands\u2019 \u2018Huge Reservoir\u2019 of Carbon at Risk of Release","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis story by Caitlin Hayes is shared jointly with the \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/news.cornell.edu\/stories\/2025\/10\/peatlands-huge-reservoir-carbon-risk-release\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003ECornell Chronicle newsroom\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EStudy co-author Joel E. Kostka is the Tom and Marie Patton Distinguished Professor and associate chair for Research in the\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/biosciences.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003ESchool of Biological Sciences\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E with a joint appointment in the\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/eas.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003ESchool of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E. He also serves as faculty director of\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cos.gatech.edu\/news\/new-center-science-georgias-tomorrow\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EGeorgia Tech for Georgia\u0027s Tomorrow\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sites.gatech.edu\/kostkalab\/peatlands-and-climate-change\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThe Kostka Lab\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u0026nbsp;works in peatland ecosystems to quantify changes in microbial communities brought on by climate change drivers. In particular, next generation gene sequencing and omics approaches are employed to investigate the microbial groups that mediate organic matter degradation and the release of greenhouse gases.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPeatlands make up just 3% of the earth\u2019s land surface but store more than 30% of the world\u2019s soil carbon, preserving organic matter and sequestering its carbon for tens of thousands of years. A new study sounds the alarm that an extreme drought event could quadruple peatland carbon loss in a warming climate.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the study, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1126\/science.adv7104\u0022\u003Epublished October 23 in \u003Cem\u003EScience\u003C\/em\u003E,\u003C\/a\u003E researchers find that, under conditions that mimic a future climate (with warmer temperatures and elevated carbon dioxide), extreme drought dramatically increases the release of carbon in peatlands by nearly three times. This means that droughts in future climate conditions could turn a valuable carbon sink into a carbon source, erasing between 90 and 250 years of carbon stores in a matter of months.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cAs temperatures increase, drought events become more frequent and severe,\u0026nbsp; making peatlands more vulnerable than before,\u201d said\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cals.cornell.edu\/people\/yiqi-luo\u0022\u003EYiqi Luo\u003C\/a\u003E, senior author and the Liberty Hyde Bailey Professor in the School of Integrative Plant Science\u2019s Soil and Crop Sciences Section, in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) at\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.cornell.edu\/\u0022\u003ECornell University\u003C\/a\u003E. \u201cWe add new evidence to show that with peatlands, the stakes are high. We observed that these extreme drought events can wipe out hundreds of years of accumulated carbon, so this has a huge implication.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cTo me, this study is striking in that it shows that around 10 to 100 years of carbon uptake by one of the most important global soil carbon stores can be erased by just two months of extreme drought,\u201d adds \u003Cstrong\u003EJoel Kostka\u003C\/strong\u003E, Tom and Marie Patton Distinguished Professor in Biological Sciences at Georgia Tech.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt was already well-established that drought reduces ecosystem productivity and increases carbon release in peatlands, but this study is the first to examine how that carbon loss is exacerbated as the planet warms and more carbon dioxide enters the atmosphere. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change estimates extreme drought will become 1.7 to 7.2 times more likely in the near future.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ERead the full story in the \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/news.cornell.edu\/stories\/2025\/10\/peatlands-huge-reservoir-carbon-risk-release\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003ECornell newsroom\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E###\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOther co-authors\u003C\/strong\u003E include Cornell postdoctoral researchers Jian Zhou and Ning Wei; senior research associate Lifen Jiang; and researchers from Georgia Institute of Technology, Florida State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), ETH Zurich, Northern Arizona University, the Australian National University, the University of Western Ontario and Duke University.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFunding\u003C\/strong\u003E for the study came in part from the National Science Foundation, USDA, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EPeatlands make up just 3% of the earth\u2019s land surface but store more than 30% of the world\u2019s soil carbon, preserving organic matter and sequestering its carbon for tens of thousands of years. A new study sounds the alarm that an extreme drought event could quadruple peatland carbon loss in a warming climate.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Researchers analyzed data from 10, yurt-like test chambers in a natural boreal spruce bog in northern Minnesota."}],"uid":"34528","created_gmt":"2025-10-24 14:03:13","changed_gmt":"2025-10-24 14:05:18","author":"jhunt7","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-10-23T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-10-23T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678444":{"id":"678444","type":"image","title":"Yurt-like test chambers in a natural boreal spruce bog in northern Minnesota (provided).","body":null,"created":"1761314632","gmt_created":"2025-10-24 14:03:52","changed":"1761314632","gmt_changed":"2025-10-24 14:03:52","alt":"Yurt-like test chambers in a natural boreal spruce bog in northern Minnesota (provided).","file":{"fid":"262467","name":"1023_peatlands1.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/24\/1023_peatlands1.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/24\/1023_peatlands1.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":374455,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/10\/24\/1023_peatlands1.jpg?itok=9kQxCKho"}}},"media_ids":["678444"],"groups":[{"id":"1278","name":"College of Sciences"},{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"1275","name":"School of Biological Sciences"},{"id":"364801","name":"School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences (EAS)"}],"categories":[{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71911","name":"Earth and Environment"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMedia contacts:\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:jess@cos.gatech.edu\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJess Hunt-Ralston\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EDirector of Communications\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003ECollege of Sciences\u003Cbr\u003EGeorgia Tech\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:kms465@cornell.edu\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EKaitlyn Serrao\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EMedia Relations\u003Cbr\u003ECornell University\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:natalia.burgess@anu.edu.au\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENatalia Burgess\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EMedia Assistant\u003Cbr\u003EANU Communications and Engagement\u003Cbr\u003EThe Australian National University\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["jess@cos.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"685913":{"#nid":"685913","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Ph.D. Candidate Shazia Awarded Carter Center Digital Democracy Fellowship","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EShazia, who uses one name, a Ph.D. candidate in sociology at Georgia Tech, has been named the recipient of The Carter Center Digital Democracy Fellowship for the 2025\u20132026 academic year. The fellowship, jointly supported by The Carter Center and Georgia Tech\u2019s Institute for People and Technology (IPaT), recognizes graduate students working at the intersection of digital technologies and democratic processes.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOpen to all Georgia Tech graduate students, the fellowship provides $15,000 in support\u2014disbursed to the recipient\u2019s advisor\u2014and offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with The Carter Center\u2019s Democracy Program. Fellows are expected to engage in IPaT programming and contribute to ongoing research and communications efforts throughout the year.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShazia\u2019s research centers on the sociopolitical dynamics of the Hazara community in Balochistan, Pakistan. Her dissertation, titled \u201cAssemblages of Security: Violence and (re)Construction of identities in the Case of Hazaras,\u201d explores how digital platforms have reshaped traditional forms of resistance and identity formation. As part of the fellowship, she will focus on how Hazaras have used platforms like Facebook and Twitter (now X) to transform sit-in protests into new modes of democratic struggle.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHer study poses critical questions: How have digital technologies influenced local governance in Balochistan? In what ways have these platforms enabled global advocacy for Hazaras? And how has digital activism contributed to the shaping of Hazara identity both within Pakistan and on the international stage?\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThese questions speak directly to the missions of both The Carter Center and IPaT,\u201d said Shazia. \u201cI have always wanted to bring digital democracy into my research because of the 2013 Hazaras protest in Balochistan, Pakistan, which incorporated the use of online digital platforms. Online posts and engagement eventually resulted in the dissolution of the local government.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe concept of \u201cdigital democracy\u201d has gained traction in recent scholarship, often described as a transformative force capable of revolutionizing governance and citizen engagement. Shazia\u2019s work exemplifies this potential, offering insights into how marginalized communities leverage technology for political agency and global visibility.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHer selection as Digital Democracy Fellow underscores Georgia Tech\u2019s commitment to interdisciplinary research and highlights The Carter Center\u2019s ongoing efforts to support democratic engagement through technology.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShazia will be working closely with Anthony DeMattee, Ph.D., a data scientist in The Carter Center Democracy Program. She is advised by Amit Prasad, professor of sociology in the School of History and Sociology.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThis Fellowship represents the significant partnership between IPaT and the Democracy Program at The Carter Center, centered on the digital transformations of democratic practice,\u201d said Michael Best, executive director of IPaT. \u201cShazia\u2019s research will focus on how social media platforms have reshaped the politics of a community that is too often overlooked.\u201d \u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EShazia, a Ph.D. candidate in sociology at Georgia Tech, has been named the recipient of The Carter Center Digital Democracy Fellowship for the 2025\u20132026 academic year.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Shazia, a Ph.D. candidate in sociology at Georgia Tech, has been named the recipient of The Carter Center Digital Democracy Fellowship for the 2025\u20132026 academic year. "}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2025-10-22 15:31:16","changed_gmt":"2025-10-22 16:05:10","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-10-22T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-10-22T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678414":{"id":"678414","type":"image","title":"Shazia","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EShazia\u003C\/strong\u003E, the Carter Center Digital Democracy Fellow, with \u003Cstrong\u003EMichael Best\u003C\/strong\u003E, Executive Director of the Institute for People and Technology\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1761146881","gmt_created":"2025-10-22 15:28:01","changed":"1761147016","gmt_changed":"2025-10-22 15:30:16","alt":"Shazia, the Carter Center Digital Democracy Fellow, with Michael Best, Executive Director of the Institute for People and Technology","file":{"fid":"262438","name":"IMG_3457-Shazia-Mike-smaller.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/22\/IMG_3457-Shazia-Mike-smaller.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/22\/IMG_3457-Shazia-Mike-smaller.png","mime":"image\/png","size":4354131,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/10\/22\/IMG_3457-Shazia-Mike-smaller.png?itok=Vh-0TWnG"}}},"media_ids":["678414"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWalter Rich\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["walter.rich@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"685578":{"#nid":"685578","#data":{"type":"news","title":"ChBE Professor Leads Team Awarded $9.2M NSF Grant to Build \u201cPlug-and-Play\u201d Biotechnology","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EImagine if building new medicines or sustainable materials were as straightforward as snapping together LEGO\u00ae bricks. That\u2019s the goal of a new project led by the Georgia Institute of Technology that could help transform the future of biomanufacturing.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe project, headed by Professor Mark Styczynski in Georgia Tech\u2019s School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (ChBE@GT), recently received a $9.2 million grant from the National Science Foundation Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (NSF TIP) to accelerate the adoption of cell-free systems in biomanufacturing.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPromising Technology\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBiotechnology has largely relied on living cells for production of products such as medicines, fragrances, or renewable fuels. But working with living cells can be complex and expensive.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECell-free systems, by contrast, strip biology down to its essential parts, the enzymes and molecules that carry out life\u2019s chemical reactions. This can simplify and speed up biomanufacturing, making it easier to scale.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe challenge, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sites.gatech.edu\/styczynski\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStyczynski\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E explained, is that most cell-free projects still require custom-built setups. \u201cRight now, engineering biology is like reinventing the wheel for every application,\u201d he said. \u201cYou have to figure out how all the parts fit together each time. We want to change that by making ready-to-use modules that work right out of the box.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStyczynski\u2019s project, called Meta-PURE (PUrified Recombinant Elements), will create eight standardized modules, each designed for a key function in cell-free systems, such as generating energy, producing proteins, or assembling complex molecules.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cLike interchangeable puzzle pieces, these modules can be mixed and matched to support different applications,\u201d Styczynski said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDemonstrating Uses\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHis team will demonstrate the system\u2019s versatility by producing santalene (a plant-derived fragrance used widely in consumer products), GamS protein (a tool that can improve cell-free processes), and a bacteriophage (a virus that can be safely used in research and the development of new therapeutic treatments).\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese examples highlight the technology\u2019s potential across industries ranging from pharmaceuticals and agriculture to chemicals and sustainable materials.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe want to make these tools so that someone in industry can create their molecule or product more quickly and efficiently, and get it out the door,\u201d Styczynski said.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cRight now, cell-free systems are mostly limited to high-value products because the cost is too high. The goal is to drive costs down and productivity up, so we can move closer to commodity chemicals like biofuels or monomers for polymers, not just niche applications. One of our partners recently developed a butanol process that shows where this can go,\u201d he said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENSF Initiative\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStyczynski\u2019s team is one of four recently awarded an \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nsf.gov\/tip\/updates\/nsf-invests-more-32m-biotechnology-accelerating-adoption?utm_medium=email\u0026amp;utm_source=govdelivery\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Einaugural investment of $32.4 million\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E to help grow the U.S. bioeconomy. The initiative is called the NSF Advancing Cell-Free Systems Toward Increased Range of Use-Inspired Applications (\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nsf.gov\/funding\/opportunities\/cfire-ideas-lab-advancing-cell-free-systems-toward-increased-range\/506275\/nsf24-552\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENSF CFIRE\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E).\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cNSF is resolute in our commitment to advancing breakthroughs in biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, and other key technologies of significance to the U.S. economy,\u201d said Erwin Gianchandani, assistant director for NSF TIP. \u201cThe novel approaches from these four CFIRE teams will speed up and expand the adoption of cell-free systems across a variety of industries and ensure America\u2019s competitive position in the global bioeconomy.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECollaborative Effort\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile ChBE@GT is the lead, Meta-PURE is a broad collaboration with partners across academia, industry, and government. Co-principal investigators include Paul Opgenorth, co-founder and vice president of development at the biotech firm eXoZymes; Nicholas R. Sandoval, associate professor of Tulane University\u2019s Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering; and Anton Jackson-Smith, founder of the biotech startup b.next.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMeta-PURE will also train graduate students and postdocs in partnership with industry, government, and other universities, helping prepare trainees to be the future of a highly interdisciplinary U.S. bioeconomy. The team will also engage the scientific community on the implementation of metrics and standards in cell-free biotechnology to better facilitate broad adoption and interoperability of not just the results of the Meta-PURE project, but of cell-free efforts more broadly.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EImagine if building new medicines or sustainable materials were as straightforward as snapping together LEGO\u00ae bricks. That\u2019s the goal of a new project led by the Georgia Institute of Technology that could help transform the future of biomanufacturing. The project, headed by Professor Mark Styczynski in Georgia Tech\u2019s School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (ChBE@GT), recently received a $9.2 million grant from the National Science Foundation Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (NSF TIP) to accelerate the adoption of cell-free systems in biomanufacturing.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Researchers received a $9.2 million grant from the National Science Foundation to accelerate the adoption of cell-free systems in biomanufacturing."}],"uid":"27271","created_gmt":"2025-10-07 18:46:50","changed_gmt":"2025-10-22 15:06:17","author":"Brad Dixon","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-10-07T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-10-07T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678296":{"id":"678296","type":"image","title":"Mark-Styczynski-Alexandra-Patterson-Protein-Biosensor-0279-h.jpg","body":null,"created":"1759862848","gmt_created":"2025-10-07 18:47:28","changed":"1759862848","gmt_changed":"2025-10-07 18:47:28","alt":"Mark Styczynski in lab","file":{"fid":"262305","name":"Mark-Styczynski-Alexandra-Patterson-Protein-Biosensor-0279-h.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/07\/Mark-Styczynski-Alexandra-Patterson-Protein-Biosensor-0279-h.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/07\/Mark-Styczynski-Alexandra-Patterson-Protein-Biosensor-0279-h.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":612548,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/10\/07\/Mark-Styczynski-Alexandra-Patterson-Protein-Biosensor-0279-h.jpg?itok=-U_D2zfs"}}},"media_ids":["678296"],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"138","name":"Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics"},{"id":"141","name":"Chemistry and Chemical Engineering"},{"id":"194685","name":"Manufacturing"}],"keywords":[{"id":"14854","name":"biomanufacturing"},{"id":"194811","name":"cell-free systems"},{"id":"1503","name":"Biotechnology"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"},{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"39461","name":"Manufacturing, Trade, and Logistics"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EBrad Dixon, \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:braddixon@gatech.edu. \u0022\u003Ebraddixon@gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["braddixon@gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"685671":{"#nid":"685671","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Fixing Flooding for the Southeast\u2019s Future","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EFlooding can be an existential threat, affecting everything from infrastructure to health. Georgia Tech researchers are developing solutions to monitor and forecast flooding, as well as restore ecosystems to prevent future flooding. These efforts support communities\u2019 resilience in the face of climate change and keep the U.S. secure.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/node\/44095\u0022\u003ERead more \u00bb\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"Georgia Tech researchers use models to monitor flooding and improve the resilience of coastal cities."}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EFlooding can be an existential threat, affecting everything from infrastructure to health. Georgia Tech researchers are developing solutions to monitor and forecast flooding, as well as restore ecosystems to prevent future flooding. These efforts support communities\u2019 resilience in the face of climate change and keep the U.S. secure.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Coastal communities throughout the Southeast are now facing constant challenges from flooding and sea level rise and they are looking to nature-based solutions to prevent flooding and erosion related to storms."}],"uid":"27255","created_gmt":"2025-10-10 19:34:37","changed_gmt":"2025-10-22 15:02:48","author":"Josie Giles","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-10-09T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-10-09T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678333":{"id":"678333","type":"image","title":"kostka.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EJoel Kostka and Michael Hodges, a\u0026nbsp;shellfish biologist in the South Carolina Department of Resources,\u0026nbsp;determining the elevation of degraded marsh habitat. [Photo courtesy of Joel Kostka]\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1760124907","gmt_created":"2025-10-10 19:35:07","changed":"1760124907","gmt_changed":"2025-10-10 19:35:07","alt":"two people walking in flood water","file":{"fid":"262349","name":"kostka.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/10\/kostka.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/10\/kostka.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":3796327,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/10\/10\/kostka.jpg?itok=E0sW1Z8-"}}},"media_ids":["678333"],"groups":[{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"685723":{"#nid":"685723","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Head to Toe: Georgia Tech Researchers Treat the Entire Human Body Through Neuroscience Research","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ENeuroscience experts from across Georgia Tech will soon come together for a new interdisciplinary research institute, the Institute for Neuroscience, Neurotechnology, and Society (INNS), launched in July. Faculty in INNS are helping to solve some of neuroscience\u2019s most pressing problems, and many have promising medical applications. One important aspect of studying the brain is understanding how the brain and the body work together. Meet the researchers who study brain-body interactions, from monitoring the neuron degradation that causes Alzheimer\u2019s to enhancing mobility for stroke survivors, in an effort to improve the health and quality of life for millions of Americans.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/node\/44169\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERead more \u00bb\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"From treatment-resistant depression to Parkinson\u0027s, Georgia Tech neuroscience researchers are tackling lifelong health problems."}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ENeuroscience experts from across Georgia Tech will soon come together for a new interdisciplinary research institute, the Institute for Neuroscience, Neurotechnology, and Society (INNS), launched in July. Faculty in INNS are helping to solve some of neuroscience\u2019s most pressing problems, and many have promising medical applications. One important aspect of studying the brain is understanding how the brain and the body work together. Meet the researchers who study brain-body interactions, from monitoring the neuron degradation that causes Alzheimer\u2019s to enhancing mobility for stroke survivors, in an effort to improve the health and quality of life for millions of Americans.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Meet Georgia Tech\u2019s neurology experts exploring the brain\u2019s impact on the entire body."}],"uid":"27255","created_gmt":"2025-10-15 19:06:15","changed_gmt":"2025-10-22 14:52:29","author":"Josie Giles","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-10-15T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-10-15T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678358":{"id":"678358","type":"image","title":"Wheaton.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003ELewis Wheaton (back) directs Georgia Tech\u2019s Cognitive Motor Control Lab.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1760555215","gmt_created":"2025-10-15 19:06:55","changed":"1760555363","gmt_changed":"2025-10-15 19:09:23","alt":"A person seated in a beige chair using a computer setup with multiple cables and devices, facing a large monitor in a testing or research room, with another individual visible through a window in an adjacent control room.","file":{"fid":"262376","name":"Wheaton.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/15\/Wheaton.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/15\/Wheaton.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":301329,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/10\/15\/Wheaton.jpg?itok=8frNLUem"}}},"media_ids":["678358"],"groups":[{"id":"1278","name":"College of Sciences"},{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"1275","name":"School of Biological Sciences"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"},{"id":"193652","name":"Matter and Systems"},{"id":"193656","name":"Neuro Next Initiative"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"685709":{"#nid":"685709","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Mapping Evolution: James Stroud Named 2025 Packard Fellow","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sites.gatech.edu\/stroudlab\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJames Stroud\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E has been named a\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.packard.org\/approach\/fellowships-for-science-engineering\/\u0022\u003E2025 Packard Fellow\u003C\/a\u003E for his pioneering research in evolutionary biology. Stroud, Elizabeth Smithgall-Watts Early Career Assistant Professor in the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/biosciences.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Biological Sciences\u003C\/a\u003E, will receive $875,000 over five years to fund his work on \u201cLizard Island\u201d in South Florida. His goal? To create evolution\u2019s first high-definition map \u2014 with the help of 1,000 backpack-wearing lizards.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EAwarded annually to just 20 individuals by the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.packard.org\/\u0022\u003EDavid and Lucile Packard Foundation\u003C\/a\u003E, Packard Fellowships for Science and Engineering support researchers pursuing cutting-edge research and ambitious goals. \u201cThese visionary Packard Fellows are pushing the boundaries of knowledge, and their bold ideas will become tomorrow\u2019s real-world solutions,\u201d says\u0026nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ENancy Lindborg\u003C\/strong\u003E, president and CEO of the Packard Foundation \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.packard.org\/2025fellows\u0022\u003Ein a recent press release\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EThe flexible funding allows researchers to maximize their creativity and ingenuity. Stroud will spend the next five years transforming Lizard Island into the world\u2019s premier evolutionary observatory, merging groundbreaking technology with long-term field research.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EOn Lizard Island, that means equipping every lizard with an ultra-lightweight sensor \u201cbackpack.\u201d Although the sensors weigh just six-hundredths of a gram each \u2014 the same as two grains of rice \u2014 when combined with innovations in mapping technology, they will help Stroud investigate the role that behavior plays in driving evolution in the wild.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u201cI\u2019m incredibly honored to be named a 2025 Packard Fellow,\u201d says Stroud. \u201cThis support allows me to pursue a question that has fascinated evolutionary biologists for centuries: how does behavior shape evolution? It\u2019s a transformative opportunity, and I\u2019m deeply grateful to the Packard Foundation for believing in the potential of this work.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETiny sensors, big questions\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EBegun in 2015, Stroud\u2019s work on Lizard Island is one of the longest-running evolutionary studies of its kind: for the last 10 years, he has carefully caught and released every lizard on the island, measuring evolution through documenting their body characteristics, habitat use, and survival.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EThrough his studies, he has captured\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cos.gatech.edu\/news\/when-two-lizards-meet-first-time-scientists-witness-evolution-action\u0022\u003Eevolution in action\u003C\/a\u003E, but monitoring and measuring behavior in evolutionary studies has historically been an extremely difficult and elusive task. The problem? While smaller animals tend to have higher population densities and reproduce more quickly (making them ideal candidates for evolutionary field studies), it has been difficult to find durable and long-lasting sensors small enough for these animals to carry.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u201cThis has been a missing link because behavior is a critical component of evolution,\u201d Stroud says. \u201cBehavior can both expose individuals to \u2014 or shield them from \u2014 natural selection. For example, an animal with a less favorable trait, like bad eyesight, could change its behavior to avoid situations where it is disadvantaged.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u201cThese decisions can ultimately determine whether they survive and reproduce in the wild, directly influencing the outcome of natural selection. However, until now, we just haven\u2019t had the technology to measure these types of extremely intricate behaviors across many individuals before.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMapping the future\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EStroud won\u2019t just know exactly where each lizard is \u2014 he\u2019ll also create a detailed three-dimensional map of the entire island using remote sensing technology called LiDAR, updating it each year. \u201cBy shooting millions of laser beams, we can create a highly detailed three-dimensional map of Lizard Island, capturing the shape of every branch, rock, and blade of grass on the island,\u201d he explains. \u201cWhen connected to our lizard backpacks, we\u2019ll know the exact microhabitats and resources available to each lizard as they move through this environment.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EStroud will also deploy hundreds of microclimate sensors to understand how species are reacting to changes in temperature and climate. The result will be the world\u2019s first comprehensive database: a record of minute lizard movements, the resources each individual uses, daily interactions, and changes in the environment spanning seasons and years.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u201cFor evolutionary scientists, it has been seemingly impossible to track the moment-by-moment decisions of individual organisms\u2026 until now,\u201d he says.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003E\u201cToday, it\u2019s possible to study what Darwin could only dream of \u2014 evolution occurring in real time,\u201d Stroud adds. \u201cBehavior is a critical component of evolution, understanding evolution is critical to understanding life on Earth, and understanding life on Earth is more important than ever.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe award will support Stroud as he creates evolution\u2019s first high-definition map \u2014 with the help of 1,000 backpack-wearing lizards.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The award will support Stroud as he creates evolution\u2019s first high-definition map \u2014 with the help of 1,000 backpack-wearing lizards."}],"uid":"35599","created_gmt":"2025-10-14 15:33:34","changed_gmt":"2025-10-22 00:44:10","author":"sperrin6","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-10-15T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-10-15T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678350":{"id":"678350","type":"image","title":"A lizard wearing one of the sensors, which weigh just three-hundredths of a gram each \u2014 the same as a two grains of rice. (Credit: Jon Suh)","body":"\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EA lizard wearing one of the sensors, which weigh just three-hundredths of a gram each \u2014 the same as a two grains of rice. (Credit: Jon Suh)\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1760456026","gmt_created":"2025-10-14 15:33:46","changed":"1760546990","gmt_changed":"2025-10-15 16:49:50","alt":"A lizard wearing one of the sensors, which weigh just three-hundredths of a gram each \u2014 the same as a two grains of rice. (Credit: Jon Suh)","file":{"fid":"262368","name":"AB4A1966.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/14\/AB4A1966.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/14\/AB4A1966.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":2677038,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/10\/14\/AB4A1966.jpg?itok=AFpraiZV"}},"678351":{"id":"678351","type":"image","title":"Stroud will spend the next five years transforming Lizard Island into the world\u2019s premier evolutionary observatory (Credit: Jon Suh)","body":"\u003Cp dir=\u0022ltr\u0022\u003EStroud will spend the next five years transforming Lizard Island into the world\u2019s premier evolutionary observatory (Credit: Jon Suh)\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1760456026","gmt_created":"2025-10-14 15:33:46","changed":"1760547098","gmt_changed":"2025-10-15 16:51:38","alt":"Stroud will spend the next five years transforming Lizard Island into the world\u2019s premier evolutionary observatory (Credit: Jon Suh)","file":{"fid":"262369","name":"AB4A2042.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/14\/AB4A2042.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/14\/AB4A2042.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":9084848,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/10\/14\/AB4A2042.jpg?itok=xnivhidD"}},"678098":{"id":"678098","type":"image","title":"James Stroud examines a lizard in the field. (Credit: Day\u2019s Edge Productions)","body":"\u003Cp\u003EJames Stroud examines a lizard in the field. (Credit: Day\u2019s Edge Productions)\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1758636184","gmt_created":"2025-09-23 14:03:04","changed":"1760547417","gmt_changed":"2025-10-15 16:56:57","alt":"James Stroud examines a lizard in the field. (Credit: Day\u2019s Edge Productions)","file":{"fid":"262081","name":"brighter_StroudResearchMiami_003_DaysEdgeProds.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/23\/brighter_StroudResearchMiami_003_DaysEdgeProds.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/23\/brighter_StroudResearchMiami_003_DaysEdgeProds.png","mime":"image\/png","size":2817190,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/23\/brighter_StroudResearchMiami_003_DaysEdgeProds.png?itok=8uLh4VRQ"}}},"media_ids":["678350","678351","678098"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.packard.org\/2025fellows","title":"The David and Lucile Packard Foundation Announces the 2025 Class of Packard Fellows for Science and Engineering"},{"url":"https:\/\/theconversation.com\/3-legged-lizards-can-thrive-against-all-odds-challenging-assumptions-about-how-evolution-works-in-the-wild-262467","title":"3-legged lizards can thrive against all odds, challenging assumptions about how evolution works in the wild"},{"url":"https:\/\/cos.gatech.edu\/news\/when-two-lizards-meet-first-time-scientists-witness-evolution-action","title":"When Two Lizards Meet for the First Time, Scientists Witness Evolution in Action"},{"url":"https:\/\/cos.gatech.edu\/news\/natures-time-machine-how-long-term-studies-unlock-evolutions-secrets","title":"Nature\u0027s Time Machine: How Long-Term Studies Unlock Evolution\u0027s Secrets"},{"url":"https:\/\/cos.gatech.edu\/news\/james-stroud-receives-maxwellhanrahan-award-field-biology","title":"James Stroud Receives Maxwell\/Hanrahan Award in Field Biology"}],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"146","name":"Life Sciences and Biology"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"},{"id":"192249","name":"cos-community"},{"id":"194631","name":"cos-georgia"},{"id":"192254","name":"cos-climate"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"},{"id":"193653","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71881","name":"Science and Technology"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWritten by \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto: sperrin6@gatech.edu\u0022\u003ESelena Langner\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"685724":{"#nid":"685724","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Kristin Janacek Named Associate Director for Interdisciplinary Research Impact at BBISS","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems (BBISS) is welcoming a new leader to drive its mission of fostering interdisciplinary sustainability research that demonstrates a measurable impact. Kristin Janacek, who brings a wealth of experience in sustainability leadership, consulting, and industry collaboration, has been appointed associate director for Interdisciplinary Research Impact.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cMy primary goal is to help drive collaboration and sustainability research on campus as an interdisciplinary grant development professional, seeking out what grants are appropriate for Georgia Tech colleagues to submit proposals for, and helping facilitate interdisciplinary research teams,\u201d says Janacek, who graduated from Tech in 2005 with a master\u2019s degree in aerospace engineering and then spent six years as a research engagement manager for the Daniel Guggenheim School of Aerospace Engineering\u2019s Aerospace Systems Design Laboratory.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn this newly created BBISS role, Janacek is eager to amplify the Institute\u2019s interdisciplinary research portfolio and foster stronger relationships between Georgia Tech and its partners. Her primary focus is on interdisciplinary grant development to support innovative research, and secondarily, she will serve as research engagement manager, coordinating collaborative research opportunities with industry partners.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBefore joining BBISS, Janacek was the North American sustainability lead at Avanade, a joint venture between Accenture and Microsoft, where she helped clients use data for impact-driven sustainability initiatives. Her career also included significant stints at GE, where she led sponsorships for energy-focused student competitions and volunteered with campus initiatives like the Georgia Tech Energy Camp. Janacek also co-founded a consulting firm with former GE colleagues and has worked closely with a range of partners to foster industry engagement. Her track record in marketing, sales, and business development will position her to build teams that can secure funding and deliver measurable results.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cI\u0027m really excited about establishing a way to quantify the outcomes of BBISS\u2019s efforts,\u201d she says. \u201cBy tracking how many grants we\u0027ve identified, applied for, and secured \u2014 and by assessing how the resulting research is driving tangible improvements in our community \u2014 we can clearly demonstrate the value and effectiveness of our work.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShe also plans to help community and industry partners become more engaged with BBISS\u2019 work, leveraging her broad industry network to secure additional resources \u2014 whether that\u2019s through volunteering, technical support, or real-world impact for community-based organizations.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cCorporate and industry organizations are always looking for a way to better their world around them, and they have mechanisms to help employees volunteer their time and knowledge,\u201d she says.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECalling All Innovative Collaborators\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJanacek welcomes engagement from faculty, researchers, and students who are passionate about making an impact \u2014 particularly those open to interdisciplinary collaboration. \u201cI look forward to having an open dialogue about how we can combine disciplines to have a broader impact,\u201d she says, adding that her ideal Georgia Tech partners are collaborative, open-minded, and forward-thinking in how they seek to advance their research.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInspired by BBISS\u2019 recent grant-writing workshop, Janacek says,\u0026nbsp; \u201cI have a lot of ideas about how we can reach out to small businesses, community nonprofits, and industry partners.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cKristin\u2019s combination of strategic skills, teamwork, and holistic vision signals a new chapter of meaningful impact at BBISS \u2014 one poised to benefit not only Georgia Tech, but also the wider communities the Institute serves,\u201d says Ameet Pinto, BBISS\u2019 associate director of Interdisciplinary Research and Collaboration and Carlton S. Wilder Associate Professor in the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBeyond the Office: Endurance, Wellness, Balance\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOutside of work, Janacek is a seasoned triathlon competitor, certified triathlon coach, and avid tennis player. The mom of two sees physical and mental well-being as essential, just as achieving broader sustainability goals within communities and organizations depends on a balance between environmental, social, and economic factors.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u2014 written by Anne Wainscott-Sargent\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"The triathlon competitor and coach brings a winning attitude to her alma mater."}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EIn this newly created BBISS role, Janacek is eager to amplify the Institute\u2019s interdisciplinary research portfolio and foster stronger relationships between Georgia Tech and its partners.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"In this newly created BBISS role, Janacek is eager to amplify the Institute\u2019s interdisciplinary research portfolio and foster stronger relationships between Georgia Tech and its partners."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2025-10-15 19:50:33","changed_gmt":"2025-10-15 19:56:57","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-10-15T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-10-15T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678359":{"id":"678359","type":"image","title":"Kristin_Janacek_portrait_square.jpg","body":null,"created":"1760557920","gmt_created":"2025-10-15 19:52:00","changed":"1760557920","gmt_changed":"2025-10-15 19:52:00","alt":"Portrait of Kristin Janacek","file":{"fid":"262377","name":"Kristin_Janacek_portrait_square.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/15\/Kristin_Janacek_portrait_square.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/15\/Kristin_Janacek_portrait_square.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":685627,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/10\/15\/Kristin_Janacek_portrait_square.jpg?itok=gjux9XC-"}}},"media_ids":["678359"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Research Communications Program Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"685485":{"#nid":"685485","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech\u2019s Growing Climate Innovation Footprint: Reflections from Climate Week NYC ","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EBeril Toktay, Regents\u2019 Professor and Brady Family Chair, Scheller College of Business\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cem\u003EExecutive Director, Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cem\u003EBoard of Directors, New York Climate Exchange\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI returned from\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.climateweeknyc.org\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EClimate Week NYC\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;energized by what I witnessed: Georgia Tech faculty, students, and startups showcasing the breadth and depth of our climate innovation work on one of the world\u0027s biggest stages.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EClimate Week NYC brings together more than 900 events, but what stood out wasn\u2019t the scale \u2014 it was the substance. Across five\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nyclimateexchange.org\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENew York Climate Exchange\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;partner events, the Georgia Tech community demonstrated something essential. Georgia Tech bridges research and real-world impact where it matters most \u2014 in people\u2019s lives.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/luma.com\/d38ftasf\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESuper South\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;event, we flipped the script on where climate innovation happens and demonstrated the Southeast as a climate tech powerhouse. Too often, conversations about climate tech center on coastal hubs. But Georgia Tech-affiliated entrepreneurs\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/arch.gatech.edu\/people\/tarek-rakha\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETarek Rakha\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;(\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/lamarr.ai\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELamarr.AI\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E),\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/myalovegriesbaum\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMya Love Griesbaum\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;(\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.mycorrhizafashion.com\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMycorrhiza Fashion\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E),\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/joe-metzler-concepcion\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJoe Metzler\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;(\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.metzev.com\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMetzev\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E),\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/lauramstoy\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELaura Stoy\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;(Ph.D. ECE 2021,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.rivaliachemical.com\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERivalia Chemical\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E),\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/charliecichetti\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECharlie Cichetti\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;(MGT 2004,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/o.lu.ma\/xhmHeIkrCq?cid=zgv124vi6diwjrh\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESkema\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E),\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/joseph-mooney-33528313a\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJoseph Mooney\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;(research engineer, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/o.lu.ma\/8v06uSVSCO?cid=zgv124vi6diwjrh\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWattAir\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E),\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/lewismotion\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELewis Motion\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;(MBA 2017,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/o.lu.ma\/C8lQkdLdDf?cid=zgv124vi6diwjrh\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWEAV3D\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E), and\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/ramtinmotahar\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERamtin Motahar\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;(IE 2004, ECON 2004, M.S. AE 2017,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.joulea.com\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJoulea\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E)\u0026nbsp;showed that the Southeast isn\u2019t just participating in the clean energy transition \u2014 we\u2019re leading it.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.climateweeknyc.org\/events\/climate-tech-showcase-supporting-early-stage-climate-tech-innovation\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EClimate Tech Fellowship Showcase\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;was personal. Seeing two Georgia Tech teams \u2014 \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.chbe.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/patricia-stathatou\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPatricia Stathatou\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;and\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ae.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/christos-e-athanasiou\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EChristos Athanasiou\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u2019s yeast-based water purification system, and\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.isye.gatech.edu\/users\/xiao-liu\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EXiao Liu\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u2019s AI-powered wildfire management platform \u2014 selected for the inaugural cohort reminded me why partnerships like the New York Climate Exchange matter. These early-stage innovators need more than good ideas. They need networks, mentorship, and funding pathways. NYCE provides those connections.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFrom flooding to batteries, two symposia highlighted GT faculty doing research that matters. At\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/aecom.com\/cw-nyc-2025\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWeathering the Future\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ce.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/iris-tien\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIris Tien\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;joined experts from AECOM, NVIDIA, and the NYC Department of Environmental Protection to discuss integrating resilience into urban infrastructure. Her work on coastal adaptation and infrastructure resilience addresses real vulnerabilities that cities face today. The\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/posts\/global-battery-alliance_batterybenchmarks-activity-7378350034167177216-HlSS?utm_source=share\u0026amp;utm_medium=member_desktop\u0026amp;rcm=ACoAAAF48nIBc11QoKdQbFKeg8r0Etcpqa5e7Ag\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGlobal Battery Alliance Leadership Meeting\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;and\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/luma.com\/k4kmurei\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUrban Battery Forum\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003Ebrought\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ce.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/yuanzhi-tang\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYuanzhi Tang\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;into conversations about building sustainable, circular battery value chains. As EVs scale and stationary storage grows, how we manage battery lifecycles \u2014 from securing raw resources to manufacturing to second-life reuse\/recycling \u2014 will determine how we balance electrification, sustainability, environmental considerations, and economics; more details can be found in the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/static1.squarespace.com\/static\/6871137ee404181e610ad3cd\/t\/68d3ffb80c27e66b122018f8\/1758724024399\/NYCE_BatteryCirculatory_v3_WEB.pdf\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENYCE report\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;on battery circularity co-authored by\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/wyatt-williams\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWyatt Williams\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;(M.S. CEE 2024, MBA 2024).\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/nicole-kennard\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENicole Kennard\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u2019s leadership in the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/engineering.nyu.edu\/events\/2025\/09\/24\/climate-storytelling-community-engaged-workshop\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EClimate Storytelling Workshop\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;reinforced something I believe deeply: Technical solutions alone won\u2019t solve the climate crisis. We need approaches that center community voices, acknowledge environmental justice concerns, and build trust. This became particularly clear in Kennard\u2019s lecture for NYU\u2019s Center for Urban Science and Progress: \u0022\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/luma.com\/4o75m8fz\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFood, Place, and Belonging: From Global Visions to Local Sustainability\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0022 Presented with\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/janelle-wright\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJanelle Wright\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;(M CP 2022) from the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.wawa-online.org\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWest Atlanta Watershed Alliance\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, this lecture demonstrated how sustainable food systems can draw on global frameworks but must center community values and honor the history of place.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA few insights emerged from the week:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1. Geography matters \u2014 and so does bridging it.\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;Collaborative platforms like NYCE that create genuine partnerships across regions will be more effective in achieving Georgia Tech\u2019s vision of doing climate work that is grounded in Georgia and global in impact.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E2. Visibility accelerates impact.\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;Several faculty and entrepreneurs told me that Climate Week NYC opened doors \u2014 to investors, to funders, to partners, and to media. Platforms like NYCE amplify work that might otherwise stay local.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E3. Students are passionate about climate opportunities.\u003C\/strong\u003E\u0026nbsp;Every conversation about internships, fellowships, and experiential learning generated immediate interest. We need to build more pathways for students like\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/rohan-datta\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERohan Datta\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;and\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/amanda-ehrenhalt-41938723a\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAmanda Ehrenhalt\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;to engage in climate work across both New York and Atlanta ecosystems \u2014 creating opportunities for hands-on experience, knowledge diffusion across regions, and the professional networks that will define their careers.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E4. Our community extends far beyond campus.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003EMeeting alumnus\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.cc.gatech.edu\/people\/alan-warren-physmath-78\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlan Warren\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;(PHYS 1978) drove this message home. Alan brings a unique vantage point on coastal resilience challenges faced in New York \u2014 and he\u2019s energized by what our partnership can achieve. His offer to serve as Georgia Tech\u2019s \u201cenvoy\u201d in NYC, connecting our climate work to networks and opportunities there, is exactly the kind of volunteer leadership that accelerates impact. Alan\u2019s own inspirational story of resilience and regeneration makes his commitment to climate resilience work even more meaningful.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELooking ahead, I see Georgia Tech\u2019s partnership with the NYCE creating a powerful platform: NYCE amplifies our work through capital and convening; Georgia Tech anchors deployment with Southeast roots and global reach. Working alongside a distinguished board led by incoming chair \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/andrea-goldsmith-02811a7\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAndrea Goldsmith\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, president of Stony Brook University, gives me confidence in this direction.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/president.gatech.edu\/about\/biography\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPresident\u0026nbsp;\u00c1ngel Cabrera\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;met with Goldsmith this week and reaffirmed our shared vision for bridging research and impact.\u0026nbsp;\u201cGeorgia Tech\u2019s mission has always been about translating knowledge into progress that serves society,\u201d said Cabrera. \u201cThe New York Climate Exchange partnership exemplifies this commitment to innovative solutions that can be scaled to create real human impact. By connecting our strengths in community-engaged climate research with networks that can amplify and accelerate solutions, we\u2019re living our motto of Progress and Service as we address one of humanity\u2019s most urgent challenges.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/sustainability\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u0026nbsp;(BBISS) convenes faculty, students, and partners to address sustainability challenges through research, education, and collaboration. Connect with BBISS on\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/georgia-tech-bbiss\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELinkedIn\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u0026nbsp;to be part of the ongoing discussion and\/or reach out to Susan Ryan (susan.ryan@gatech.edu) to be added to BBISS\u2019 climate science and solutions community of practice.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EClimate Week NYC brings together 900+ events, but what stood out wasn\u2019t the scale\u2014it was the substance. Across five \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nyclimateexchange.org\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ENew York Climate Exchange\u003C\/a\u003E partner events, the Georgia Tech community demonstrated something essential: Georgia Tech bridges research and real-world impact where it matters most \u2013 in people\u2019s lives.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Across five New York Climate Exchange partner events, the Georgia Tech community demonstrated something essential: Georgia Tech bridges research and real-world impact where it matters most \u2013 in people\u2019s lives."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2025-10-03 15:39:46","changed_gmt":"2025-10-09 19:51:16","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-10-03T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-10-03T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678255":{"id":"678255","type":"image","title":"NYCE_2025_Collage.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003ECollage of four images taken at the New York Climate Exchange 2025 events with Georgia Tech participants.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1759506006","gmt_created":"2025-10-03 15:40:06","changed":"1759506006","gmt_changed":"2025-10-03 15:40:06","alt":"Collage of four images taken at the New York Climate Exchange 2025 events with Georgia Tech participants.","file":{"fid":"262255","name":"NYCE_2025_Collage.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/03\/NYCE_2025_Collage.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/03\/NYCE_2025_Collage.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1762951,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/10\/03\/NYCE_2025_Collage.jpg?itok=0ResI8BF"}}},"media_ids":["678255"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[{"id":"131","name":"Economic Development and Policy"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"145","name":"Engineering"},{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"132","name":"Institute Leadership"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"134","name":"Student and Faculty"}],"keywords":[{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Research Communications Program Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"685646":{"#nid":"685646","#data":{"type":"news","title":"What Happens When AI Comes to the Cotton Fields","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EPrecision agriculture uses tools and technologies such as GPS and sensors to monitor, measure and respond to changes within a farm field in real time. This includes \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/3-ways-ai-can-help-farmers-tackle-the-challenges-of-modern-agriculture-213210\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Eusing artificial intelligence\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E technologies for tasks such as helping farmers apply pesticides only where and when they are needed.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHowever, precision agriculture has \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gao.gov\/assets\/870\/865822.pdf\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Enot been widely implemented\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E in many rural areas of the United States.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe study \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?hl=en\u0026amp;user=Smg8NicAAAAJ\u0026amp;view_op=list_works\u0026amp;sortby=pubdate\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Esmart communities\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?hl=en\u0026amp;user=bRCOhqUAAAAJ\u0026amp;view_op=list_works\u0026amp;sortby=pubdate\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Eenvironmental health sciences\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholars.georgiasouthern.edu\/en\/persons\/james-e-thomas-2\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Ehealth policy and community health\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, and we participated in a research project on AI and pesticide use in a rural Georgia agricultural community.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOur team, led by Georgia Southern University and the City of Millen, with support from University of Georgia Cooperative Extension, local high schools and agriculture technology company \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.farmsense.io\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFarmSense\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, is piloting AI-powered sensors to help cotton farmers optimize pesticide use. Georgia is one of the top cotton-producing states in the U.S., with cotton \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.farm-monitor.com\/georgia-cotton-growers-face-challenges-change-in-2025\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Econtributing nearly US$1 billion\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E to the state\u2019s economy in 2024. But \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gao.gov\/assets\/870\/865822.pdf\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Eonly 13%\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E of Georgia farmers use precision agriculture practices.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/news.gatech.edu\/news\/2025\/09\/23\/what-happens-when-ai-comes-cotton-fields\u0022\u003ERead the full story here \u0026gt;\u0026gt;\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA Georgia Tech team is piloting AI-powered sensors to help cotton farmers optimize pesticide use.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"A Georgia Tech team is piloting AI-powered sensors to help cotton farmers optimize pesticide use."}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2025-10-09 18:54:37","changed_gmt":"2025-10-09 18:56:20","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-09-23T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-09-23T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678322":{"id":"678322","type":"image","title":"Cotton Field","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EA researcher works in a cotton field in Jenkins County, Georgia, as part of a project on AI and pesticide use. Dorothy Seybold\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1760036126","gmt_created":"2025-10-09 18:55:26","changed":"1760036152","gmt_changed":"2025-10-09 18:55:52","alt":"A researcher works in a cotton field in Jenkins County, Georgia, as part of a project on AI and pesticide use. Dorothy Seybold","file":{"fid":"262335","name":"file-20250915-56-jv2dth1.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/09\/file-20250915-56-jv2dth1.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/09\/file-20250915-56-jv2dth1.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":331807,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/10\/09\/file-20250915-56-jv2dth1.jpg?itok=HQdaVT-V"}}},"media_ids":["678322"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"685394":{"#nid":"685394","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Startup Sets Sights on Transforming Heart Failure Care","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EHeart failure remains one of the most challenging conditions to monitor outside the clinic. Patients may experience changes in symptoms, such as fatigue or shortness of breath, between visits, yet many current devices provide limited data, leaving physicians without continuous insight into heart function.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cDespite advances in digital health, continuous monitoring of the heart\u2019s mechanical function has remained difficult outside clinical settings,\u201d said Omer Inan, researcher and entrepreneur at Georgia Tech. \u201cPatients and physicians have long needed a tool that provides deeper, real-time insights into heart performance without invasive procedures. We decided to tackle that problem head-on with a wearable device.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/commercialization.gatech.edu\/node\/1568\u0022\u003ERead more \u00bb\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"CardioTag\u2122: A Breakthrough Wearable for Continuous, Noninvasive Heart Failure Monitoring Using Seismocardiography and Machine Learning"}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EHeart failure remains one of the most challenging conditions to monitor outside the clinic. Patients may experience changes in symptoms, such as fatigue or shortness of breath, between visits, yet many current devices provide limited data, leaving physicians without continuous insight into heart function.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Heart failure remains one of the most challenging conditions to monitor outside the clinic. "}],"uid":"27255","created_gmt":"2025-09-29 23:32:36","changed_gmt":"2025-10-09 15:41:29","author":"Josie Giles","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-09-23T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-09-23T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678204":{"id":"678204","type":"image","title":"Cardiotag-heart-device.jpg","body":null,"created":"1759188855","gmt_created":"2025-09-29 23:34:15","changed":"1759188855","gmt_changed":"2025-09-29 23:34:15","alt":"man baring chest an holding a patch against his skin","file":{"fid":"262200","name":"Cardiotag-heart-device.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/29\/Cardiotag-heart-device.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/29\/Cardiotag-heart-device.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":10248122,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/29\/Cardiotag-heart-device.jpg?itok=c59FxZWn"}}},"media_ids":["678204"],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"},{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"},{"id":"193652","name":"Matter and Systems"},{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71891","name":"Health and Medicine"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"685409":{"#nid":"685409","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Nathan Wallace Takes Steps to Advance Prosthetics","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENathan Wallace was born with proximal femoral focal deficiency, a congenital limb disorder, which led to the amputation of his left foot at 8 months old. He was fitted for his first prosthetic at 13 months.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow, the third-year biomedical engineering student is using his life experience to develop advanced prostheses as a member of the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.epic.gatech.edu\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EExoskeleton and Prosthetic Intelligent Controls (EPIC) Lab\u003C\/a\u003E. Wallace is part of the development and machine learning teams on an ongoing \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.epic.gatech.edu\/powered-knee-ankle-prosthesis\/\u0022\u003Evertically integrated project\u003C\/a\u003E led by Associate Professor Aaron Young and senior research scientist Kinsey Herrin. The teams are engineering a microprocessor-powered leg and ankle capable of mimicking gait and providing stability in walking patterns across various surfaces.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETraditional prosthetics, like the one Wallace uses, don\u2019t provide ankle flexion, but the current iteration of the lab\u2019s leg offers something that he views as an evolution of products on the market today. The latest tests allowed Wallace, while wearing the leg, to walk up a ramp with the ankle and knee adapting to the slope.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cA lot of our power comes from the ankle, and our version of the leg better recreates a complete gait cycle, which includes the knee and ankle flexion and everything in between. With my current prosthetic, I don\u2019t have that same gait control, so I\u2019m swinging my foot around and overcompensating on my right leg. With our leg, I\u2019m walking up the ramp normally, and it\u2019s creating a movement that I\u0027ve never felt before,\u201d he said.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlong with the improved performance of the leg, Wallace and the team intend to use machine learning to assist in fitting patients with prosthetics that meet their unique needs.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe\u0027re trying to get away from patients having to spend hours in an office tuning a prosthetic to their preferences. Instead, it allows the machine learning model to learn as the person walks on it. This can help reduce costs related to both time and personnel,\u201d he said.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGrowing up, Wallace was an active child at recess and eventually became a high school wrestler. While there were times he felt he couldn\u2019t keep up with his classmates, he found ways to adapt. He credits his condition for helping him develop a strong work ethic and a desire to help others find the same confidence he has found as he\u2019s gotten older.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cLearning to embrace who I am has made me the person I am today. It\u2019s given me perspective and a capacity for empathy and sympathy for others in the disabled community,\u201d he said. \u201cMy past and my condition have driven me to where I am today, and I feel privileged to be at Georgia Tech. It touches a special place in my heart to know that this kind of work is going on, and that I can be a part of it.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOutside of the lab, Wallace is a member of the student organization \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/gatech.campuslabs.com\/engage\/organization\/tikkun-olam-makers\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ETikkun Olam Makers\u003C\/a\u003E, which develops open-source solutions for members of disabled communities. He also creates props for DramaTech, and, continuing to push himself beyond his comfort zone, he recently starred in the student-run theater\u2019s production of \u003Cem\u003EEurydice\u003C\/em\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"Born with a congenital limb disorder, Wallace wants to use his own experience to develop new prosthetics.  "}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EBorn with a congenital limb disorder, Wallace wants to use his own experience to develop new prosthetics.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Born with a congenital limb disorder, Wallace wants to use his own experience to develop new prosthetics.  "}],"uid":"36418","created_gmt":"2025-09-30 17:08:41","changed_gmt":"2025-10-08 16:14:02","author":"sgagliano3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-09-30T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-09-30T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678226":{"id":"678226","type":"image","title":"Nathan Wallace","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENathan Wallace testing the microprocessor-powered leg in the Exoskeleton and Prosthetic Intelligent Controls (EPIC) Lab at Georgia Tech. Submitted photo.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1759252630","gmt_created":"2025-09-30 17:17:10","changed":"1759252630","gmt_changed":"2025-09-30 17:17:10","alt":"Nathan Wallace in the lab","file":{"fid":"262221","name":"Screenshot-2025-09-29-at-1.15.01-PM.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/30\/Screenshot-2025-09-29-at-1.15.01-PM.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/30\/Screenshot-2025-09-29-at-1.15.01-PM.png","mime":"image\/png","size":2233040,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/30\/Screenshot-2025-09-29-at-1.15.01-PM.png?itok=zWrJLCKm"}}},"media_ids":["678226"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.epic.gatech.edu","title":"EPIC Lab"}],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"}],"categories":[{"id":"138","name":"Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics"}],"keywords":[{"id":"179350","name":"biomedical egnineering"},{"id":"1612","name":"BME"},{"id":"13559","name":"EPIC"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71891","name":"Health and Medicine"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:steven.gagliano@gatech.edu\u0022\u003ESteven Gagliano\u003C\/a\u003E \u2013 Institute Communications\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"684399":{"#nid":"684399","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Rampi Ramprasad Awarded $2 Million Grant to Pioneer AI-Driven Recyclable Packaging Materials Design","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nsf.gov\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENational Science Foundation (NSF)\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E has awarded \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.mse.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESchool of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE)\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E Professor \u0026amp; Regents\u2019 Entrepreneur \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.mse.gatech.edu\/people\/rampi-ramprasad\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERampi Ramprasad\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E a $2 million grant to advance research at the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and polymer science. He and a multidisciplinary team of Georgia Tech researchers will design next-generation polymer-based packaging materials that can easily be recycled or biodegraded at the end of their use.\u0026nbsp;The project addresses one of the most pressing challenges in global sustainability: plastic waste.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.mse.gatech.edu\/news\/rampi-ramprasad-awarded-2-million-grant-pioneer-ai-driven-recyclable-packaging-materials\u0022\u003ERead more on the Georgia Tech Materials Science and Engineering Newspage\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nsf.gov\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENational Science Foundation (NSF)\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E has awarded \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.mse.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESchool of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE)\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E Professor \u0026amp; Regents\u2019 Entrepreneur \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.mse.gatech.edu\/people\/rampi-ramprasad\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERampi Ramprasad\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E a $2 million grant to advance research at the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and polymer science. He and a multidisciplinary team of Georgia Tech researchers will design next-generation polymer-based packaging materials that can easily be recycled or biodegraded at the end of their use.\u0026nbsp;The project addresses one of the most pressing challenges in global sustainability: plastic waste.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The project addresses one of the world\u2019s most pressing challenges in sustainability: eliminating plastic waste."}],"uid":"36413","created_gmt":"2025-09-04 12:36:07","changed_gmt":"2025-10-06 17:39:33","author":"pdevarajan3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-09-04T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-09-04T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677901":{"id":"677901","type":"image","title":"Photo_RampiRamprasad_crop-e1529935087576.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003ERampi Ramprasad\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1756989376","gmt_created":"2025-09-04 12:36:16","changed":"1756989376","gmt_changed":"2025-09-04 12:36:16","alt":"Rampi Ramprasad","file":{"fid":"261855","name":"Photo_RampiRamprasad_crop-e1529935087576.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/04\/Photo_RampiRamprasad_crop-e1529935087576.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/04\/Photo_RampiRamprasad_crop-e1529935087576.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":10892,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/04\/Photo_RampiRamprasad_crop-e1529935087576.jpg?itok=MuuVsyCH"}}},"media_ids":["677901"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.mse.gatech.edu\/news\/rampi-ramprasad-awarded-2-million-grant-pioneer-ai-driven-recyclable-packaging-materials","title":"Read Story on MSE Newspage"}],"groups":[{"id":"372221","name":"Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI)"},{"id":"367481","name":"SEI Energy"}],"categories":[{"id":"138","name":"Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"145","name":"Engineering"},{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"},{"id":"188020","name":"go-rbi"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"39491","name":"Renewable Bioproducts"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"685551":{"#nid":"685551","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Lisa Marks Named Interim Chair of Arts, Entertainment, and Creative Technologies","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech has appointed \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/id.gatech.edu\/people\/lisa-marks\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELisa Marks\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, associate professor in the School of Industrial Design, as the interim chair for the new Arts, Entertainment, and Creative Technologies major within the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/design.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECollege of Design\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E. The school\u2019s new undergraduate degree, which was approved by the Board of Regents in August, will welcome its first students in Fall 2026.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMarks, an award-winning designer and educator, is known for her research that merges endangered and traditional handcraft with algorithmic modeling to create new methods of production. Before joining Georgia Tech, she worked in New York with clients including Google, Nike, and Swarovski. She holds both undergraduate and graduate degrees from Parsons School of Design.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn her new role, Marks is leading the program\u2019s launch and laying the groundwork for a vibrant student community. \u201cThis year, we\u2019re piloting classes and renovating studio spaces to welcome incoming students,\u201d she explained. \u201cMy goal is to make sure that when the permanent chair steps in, they inherit a strong, well-planned program and a supportive community.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor Marks, the opportunity to shape a new academic program is a milestone. \u201cI always thought this was something I might do ten years from now. Getting the chance to help launch a new school so early in my career is both exciting and humbling. This has always been a goal of mine.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShe also emphasized the significance of this moment for the Institute. \u201cAt an Institute best known for its strengths in engineering and technology, it\u2019s remarkable to see leadership embrace the arts as essential to innovation. The enthusiasm across campus\u2014from students, faculty, and administration alike\u2014shows how much creative technologies can strengthen every discipline.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDean Ellen Bassett highlighted the importance of Marks\u2019 leadership \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/news.gatech.edu\/news\/2025\/08\/12\/georgia-tech-launches-arts-entertainment-and-creative-technologies-degree\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Eduring the program\u2019s formative stage\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, noting that the degree offers \u201cthe most creative option in the state of Georgia for combining talents in design and technology into viable, thriving careers.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith Marks at the helm, Georgia Tech is positioning its Arts, Entertainment, and Creative Technologies degree to become a national model\u2014blending creativity, arts practice, and technology into a transformative educational experience.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy Melissa Alonso | September 24, 2025\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/design.gatech.edu\/feature\/lisa-marks-chair-aect?utm_source=newsletter\u0026amp;utm_medium=email\u0026amp;utm_content=Marks%20Named%20Interim%20Chair%20of%20New%20School\u0026amp;utm_campaign=Daily%20Digest%20-%20Oct.%206%2C%202025\u0022\u003EView the news posting at the College of Design \u0026gt;\u0026gt;\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech has appointed \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/id.gatech.edu\/people\/lisa-marks\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELisa Marks\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, associate professor in the School of Industrial Design, as the interim chair for the new Arts, Entertainment, and Creative Technologies major within the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/design.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECollege of Design\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech has appointed Lisa Marks, associate professor in the School of Industrial Design, as the interim chair for the new Arts, Entertainment, and Creative Technologies major within the College of Design."}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2025-10-06 14:26:34","changed_gmt":"2025-10-06 14:26:57","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-10-06T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-10-06T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678270":{"id":"678270","type":"image","title":"Lisa Marks, associate professor in the School of Industrial Design, as the interim chair for the new Arts, Entertainment, and Creative Technologies major within the College of Design.","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/id.gatech.edu\/people\/lisa-marks\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELisa Marks\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, associate professor in the School of Industrial Design, as the interim chair for the new Arts, Entertainment, and Creative Technologies major within the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/design.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECollege of Design\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1759760604","gmt_created":"2025-10-06 14:23:24","changed":"1759760626","gmt_changed":"2025-10-06 14:23:46","alt":"Lisa Marks, associate professor in the School of Industrial Design, as the interim chair for the new Arts, Entertainment, and Creative Technologies major within the College of Design.","file":{"fid":"262274","name":"lisamarksEDIT.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/06\/lisamarksEDIT.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/10\/06\/lisamarksEDIT.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1223045,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/10\/06\/lisamarksEDIT.jpg?itok=Hjq_sQLI"}}},"media_ids":["678270"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"685207":{"#nid":"685207","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Advanced Manufacturing Takes Off in Georgia Classrooms","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ESmart manufacturing, data-driven design, and artificial intelligence aren\u2019t just buzzwords \u2014 they are fields that are creating high-paying, high-tech careers across the country. In rural communities across Georgia, these advanced manufacturing roles are growing, but the talent pipeline isn\u2019t keeping pace.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIt\u2019s not just about creating jobs, it\u2019s about filling them,\u201d says \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/11182\u0022\u003ETom Kurfess\u003C\/a\u003E, Regents\u2019 Professor in mechanical engineering and executive director of the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/manufacturing.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia Tech Manufacturing Institute\u003C\/a\u003E (GTMI). \u201cTo do that, we need to show students how exciting and innovative manufacturing can be. Manufacturing has really changed over the past few years. Today, going from an idea to a physical part is much easier to do. It is fun and exciting to bring ideas to life and to actually hold the results in your hands.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGTMI is working to\u0026nbsp;reignite student interest in the art and science of making\u0026nbsp;through its new K\u201312 initiative: the\u0026nbsp;Advanced Manufacturing Pathways (AMP) Program. Modeled after Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ceismc.gatech.edu\/rural-cs-initiative\u0022\u003ERural CS Initiative\u003C\/a\u003E, AMP\u0026nbsp;empowers schools with faculty expertise, cutting-edge equipment, and a hands-on curriculum\u0026nbsp;to give students early exposure to the tools, technologies, and creativity behind modern manufacturing while building a pipeline of future talent ready to thrive in high-tech careers.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFunded by the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.swgrc.org\/\u0022\u003ESouthwest Georgia Regional Commission\u003C\/a\u003E (SWGRC), AMP is kicking off in three school districts this fall \u2014 Decatur County,\u0026nbsp;Thomas County, and\u0026nbsp;the city of Thomasville\u0026nbsp; \u2014 with plans to expand to additional schools in the spring of 2026. The program will start by engaging more than 200 students through hands-on learning, virtual instruction, and in-person lab experiences led by Georgia Tech researchers and faculty.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cHere in Southwest Georgia, we believe that opportunities like this are vital for integrated learning in schools and for growing our future workforce,\u201d says Beka Shiver, economic development and transportation planner for SWGRC. \u201cWorkforce development and K-12 integration are at the heart of our Southwest Georgia Ecosystem Building Project, and we are so pleased to be able to provide funding for this program.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe launch of the AMP Program is\u0026nbsp;centered around Design, Build, Race, a course putting a modern spin on the classic pinewood derby. Students will use digital design, 3D printing, and machining to build and race custom cars, while also learning how to collect and analyze performance data to improve their designs and predict outcomes. The course blends engineering with data science, sparking curiosity and showing students how modern manufacturing is powered by both technical skills and smart data.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThis program delivers real-world industry experience to students while strengthening the talent pipeline that drives innovation, competitiveness, and resilience in advanced manufacturing\u201d, says \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/21289\u0022\u003ESteven Ferguson\u003C\/a\u003E, interim director of operations at GTMI and one of the project\u2019s leaders. \u201cAfter more than 20 years of driving education and workforce development innovation, I\u2019m more energized than ever to help launch the AMP program to open doors for students and advance U.S. manufacturing leadership.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBuilding the Blueprint\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBefore it evolved into the AMP Program, Design, Build, Race was a course developed by GTMI research engineer \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/people\/kyle-saleeby\u0022\u003EKyle Saleeby\u003C\/a\u003E in 2023. Originating in GTMI\u2019s Advanced Manufacturing Pilot Facility (AMPF), the course was designed to introduce Morehouse and Georgia Tech students to the possibilities of modern manufacturing through digital design, 3D printing, machining, and competitive creativity.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cEven after the first week, it was powerful to watch students discover how exciting it is to design and manufacture a competition-ready car in a matter of hours,\u201d said Saleeby. \u201cThat\u2019s when I knew we were onto something special.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESaleeby teamed up with\u0026nbsp;Ferguson to transform the course into a broader initiative. The duo engaged colleagues from \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gtri.gatech.edu\/outreach\/stem-at-gtri\u0022\u003ESTEM@GTRI\u003C\/a\u003E and\u0026nbsp;secured funding from SWGRC to modify the curriculum and scale the course for a high school audience.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe are thrilled that we have been able to take the lessons learned during the development of the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ceismc.gatech.edu\/rural-cs-initiative\u0022\u003ERural Computer Science Initiative\u003C\/a\u003E and expand opportunities for students in Southwest Georgia,\u201d says Sean Mulvanity, a senior research associate in the Georgia Tech Research Institute. Mulvanity is one of the founders of the initiative and has been a key contributor to the AMP Program. \u201cWe hope this program can grow and expose students across the state to the field of advanced manufacturing.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThough granted by the SWGRC, funds for the program were provided by \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/georgiaaim.org\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing\u003C\/a\u003E, a statewide initiative founded by GTMI and Georgia Tech\u2019s\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/innovate.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EEnterprise Innovation Institute\u003C\/a\u003E to advance AI-driven manufacturing.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo bring AMP into classrooms,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/southernregional.edu\/\u0022\u003ESouthern Regional Technical College\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;helped set up labs and provide technical support, ensuring schools were ready to launch.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cAt all levels, the community has rallied around this program,\u201d says Saleeby. \u201cProviding students with a unique experience learning advanced manufacturing technologies will open countless career opportunities. I cannot wait to see where they go.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ELaunched this fall, Georgia Tech\u2019s Advanced Manufacturing Pathways Program works to spark interest in high-tech careers and strengthen Georgia\u2019s talent pipeline.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Launched this fall, Georgia Tech\u2019s Advanced Manufacturing Pathways Program works to spark interest in high-tech careers and strengthen Georgia\u2019s talent pipeline."}],"uid":"35575","created_gmt":"2025-09-23 18:32:30","changed_gmt":"2025-09-25 18:25:01","author":"adavidson38","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-09-23T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-09-23T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678139":{"id":"678139","type":"image","title":"GT-Pinewood-Derby-Cars.png","body":"\u003Cp\u003EStudents across Georgia are designing and 3D printing pinewood derby cars as part of a new hands-on advanced manufacturing initiative.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1758811031","gmt_created":"2025-09-25 14:37:11","changed":"1758811031","gmt_changed":"2025-09-25 14:37:11","alt":"Students across Georgia are designing and 3D printing pinewood derby cars as part of a new hands-on advanced manufacturing initiative.","file":{"fid":"262126","name":"GT-Pinewood-Derby-Cars.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/25\/GT-Pinewood-Derby-Cars.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/25\/GT-Pinewood-Derby-Cars.png","mime":"image\/png","size":8283257,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/25\/GT-Pinewood-Derby-Cars.png?itok=5NM2T1H7"}},"678140":{"id":"678140","type":"image","title":"Saleeby-setting-up-equipment.jpeg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EKyle Saleeby (left) works side-by-side with a teacher to set up precision milling equipment, a key part of the AMP Program\u2019s hands-on curriculum.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1758811233","gmt_created":"2025-09-25 14:40:33","changed":"1758811233","gmt_changed":"2025-09-25 14:40:33","alt":"Kyle Saleeby (left) works side-by-side with a teacher to set up precision milling equipment, a key part of the AMP Program\u2019s hands-on curriculum.","file":{"fid":"262127","name":"Saleeby-setting-up-equipment.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/25\/Saleeby-setting-up-equipment.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/25\/Saleeby-setting-up-equipment.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":221625,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/25\/Saleeby-setting-up-equipment.jpeg?itok=38NIH9i0"}},"678141":{"id":"678141","type":"image","title":"Steven-Ferguson.jpeg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWith more than two decades of workforce development experience, Steven Ferguson is helping launch a new era of hands-on learning through the AMP Program.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1758811394","gmt_created":"2025-09-25 14:43:14","changed":"1758811394","gmt_changed":"2025-09-25 14:43:14","alt":"With more than two decades of workforce development experience, Steven Ferguson is helping launch a new era of hands-on learning through the AMP Program.","file":{"fid":"262128","name":"Steven-Ferguson.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/25\/Steven-Ferguson.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/25\/Steven-Ferguson.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":2690472,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/25\/Steven-Ferguson.jpeg?itok=87CORHJc"}}},"media_ids":["678139","678140","678141"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/news.research.gatech.edu\/2025\/09\/16\/georgia-tech-taps-military-talent-boost-manufacturing-workforce","title":"Georgia Tech Taps Military Talent to Boost Manufacturing Workforce"},{"url":"https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/manufacturing-workforce-future","title":"Manufacturing the Workforce of the Future"},{"url":"https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/impact\/workforce\/michael-trigger","title":"How a Veteran Gained Invaluable Skills in AI Manufacturing at Georgia Tech"}],"groups":[{"id":"155831","name":"Georgia Tech Manufacturing Institute (GTMI)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"42911","name":"Education"},{"id":"194685","name":"Manufacturing"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"194612","name":"Workforce Development"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"186857","name":"go-gtmi"},{"id":"193651","name":"Enterprise Innovation Institiute"},{"id":"415","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"193653","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute"},{"id":"39461","name":"Manufacturing, Trade, and Logistics"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:audra.davidson@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EAudra Davidson\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EResearch Communications Program Manager\u003Cbr\u003EGeorgia Tech Manufacturing Institute\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["audra.davidson@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"684992":{"#nid":"684992","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Molecular \u2018Fossils\u2019 Offer Microscopic Clues to the Origins of Life \u2013 But They Take Care to\u00a0Interpret","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe questions of how humankind came to be, and whether we are alone in the universe, have \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1017\/S1473550407003692\u0022\u003Ecaptured imaginations for millennia\u003C\/a\u003E. But to answer these questions, scientists must first understand life itself and how it could have arisen.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn our work as \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?user=0SOG_SsAAAAJ\u0026amp;hl=vi\u0022\u003Eevolutionary biochemists\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?user=e_IKMz4AAAAJ\u0026amp;hl=en\u0022\u003Eprotein historians\u003C\/a\u003E, these core questions form the foundation of our research programs. To study life\u2019s history billions of years ago, we often use clues called \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/embor.2013.162\u0022\u003Emolecular \u201cfossils\u201d\u003C\/a\u003E \u2013 ancient structures shared by all living organisms.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERecently, we discovered that an important molecular fossil found in an ancient protein family \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1093\/molbev\/msaf055\u0022\u003Emay not be what it seems\u003C\/a\u003E. The dilemma centers, in part, on a simple question: What does it mean if a simple molecular structure \u2013 the fossil \u2013 is found in every single organism on Earth? Do molecular fossils point to the seeds that gave rise to modern biological complexity, or are they simply the stubborn pieces that have resisted erosion over time? The answers have far-reaching implications for how scientists understand the origins of biology.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EFollow the Phosphorus to Follow Life\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELife is made of many different building blocks, one of the most important of which is the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.smithsonianmag.com\/air-space-magazine\/phosporus-you-cant-have-life-without-it-least-earth-180967243\/\u0022\u003Echemical element phosphorus\u003C\/a\u003E. Phosphorus makes up part of your genetic material, powers complex metabolic reactions and acts as a molecular switch to control enzymes.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPhosphorus compounds \u2013 specifically a charged form called phosphate \u2013 have a number of unique chemical properties that other biological compounds cannot match. In the words of the pioneering organic chemist F.H. Westheimer, they are chemically able to \u201c\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1126\/science.2434996\u0022\u003Edo almost everything\u003C\/a\u003E.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETheir unique combination of stability, versatility and adaptability is why many researchers argue that \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.popularmechanics.com\/space\/solar-system\/a19685943\/alien-life-phosphorus\/\u0022\u003Efollowing phosphorus is key to finding life\u003C\/a\u003E. The presence of phosphorus both close to home \u2013 in the ocean or on one of Saturn\u2019s moons \u2013 and in the farthest reaches of our galaxy is strong evidence for the potential for life beyond Earth.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/690272\/original\/file-20250910-56-jjsn6y.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/690272\/original\/file-20250910-56-jjsn6y.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 alt=\u0022Chemical structure of a nucleotide, made of a phosphate, ribose sugar and base\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPhosphate is part of many essential biological molecules, including the building blocks of DNA. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/biology\/chapter\/9-1-the-structure-of-dna\/\u0022\u003ECharles Molnar and Jane Gair\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0\/\u0022\u003ECC BY-SA\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf phosphorus is so critical to life, how did early biology \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/evolution.berkeley.edu\/from-soup-to-cells-the-origin-of-life\/how-did-life-originate\/\u0022\u003Epredating cells\u003C\/a\u003E first use it?\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToday, biological organisms are able to make use of phosphates \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/what-is-a-protein-a-biologist-explains-152870\u0022\u003Ethrough proteins\u003C\/a\u003E \u2013 molecular machines that regulate all aspects of life. By \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1039\/B9NJ00718K\u0022\u003Ebinding to proteins, phosphates\u003C\/a\u003E regulate metabolism and cellular communication, and they serve as a source of cellular energy.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFurther, the process of phosphorylation, or adding a phosphate group to a protein, is ubiquitous in biology and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1098\/rstb.2012.0013\u0022\u003Eallows proteins to perform functions\u003C\/a\u003E their individual building blocks cannot. Without proteins, the existence of organisms such as bacteria and humans may not be possible.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGiven how essential phosphorus is to life, scientists hypothesize that phosphate binding was among the first biological functions to emerge on Earth. In fact, current evidence suggests that the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.7554\/eLife.64415\u0022\u003Efirst phosphate-binding proteins are truly ancient\u003C\/a\u003E \u2013 even older than the last universal common ancestor, the hypothetical mother cell to all life on Earth that \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1371\/journal.pgen.1007518\u0022\u003Eexisted around 4 billion years ago\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EA Mysterious Phosphate-Binding Fossil\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne family of phosphate-binding proteins, called \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1073\/pnas.1812400115\u0022\u003EP-loop NTPases\u003C\/a\u003E, regulates everything from the communication between cells to the storage of energy and are found across the tree of life. Because P-loop NTPases are among the most ancient protein families, analyzing their properties can provide key insights into both the emergence of proteins and how primitive life used phosphates.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlthough P-loop NTPases are diverse in structure, they share a common motif called a P-loop. This component binds to phosphate by wrapping a nest of amino acids \u2013 the building blocks that make up proteins \u2013 around the molecule. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.7554\/eLife.64415\u0022\u003EEvery known organism\u003C\/a\u003E has multiple families of P-loop NTPase, which makes the P-loop an excellent example of a molecular fossil that can provide clues about the evolution of life. Our crude analysis of the human genome estimates that humans have about 5,000 copies of P-loops.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen part of a larger protein structure, the P-loop folds like origami into a shape that is ideal for \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1073\/pnas.1812400115\u0022\u003Ehugging a phosphate molecule\u003C\/a\u003E. These nests are extremely similar to each other, even when the surrounding proteins are only distantly related in function. A landmark study in 2012 argued that even if the P-loop nest is extracted from a protein, it can \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1002\/prot.24038\u0022\u003Estill bind to phosphate\u003C\/a\u003E. In other words, the ability of a P-loop to form a nest is determined by its interactions with phosphate, not its protein scaffold.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis study provided the first evidence that some forms of the P-loop sequence could have functioned billions of years ago, even before the emergence of large, complex proteins. If true, this implies that P-loop nests may have seeded the emergence and evolution of many of the phosphate-binding proteins seen today.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EInterrogating the History of the P-loop\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe pioneer of bioinformatics, Margaret Oakley Dayhoff, hypothesized in 1966 that the large collection of big proteins seen today \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1002\/anie.201609977\u0022\u003Earose from small peptides\u003C\/a\u003E that were duplicated and fused over long periods of time. Although P-loops may have evolved in a different way, Dayhoff\u2019s realization was the first to clarify how complex forms could have arisen from much simpler ones.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInspired by Dayhoff\u2019s hypothesis, we sought to interrogate the role that simple P-loops may have played in the evolution of the complex proteins key to life. Our findings challenge what\u2019s currently known about these molecular fossils.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/690273\/original\/file-20250910-56-q9xtll.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/690273\/original\/file-20250910-56-q9xtll.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 alt=\u0022Diagram showing the evolution of amino acids to oligopeptides to complex proteins\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Dayhoff hypothesis proposed that large, complex proteins arose from the duplication and merging of smaller, simpler peptides over time. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.3390\/biom12060793\u0022\u003EMerski et al.\/Biomolecules\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0\/\u0022\u003ECC BY-SA\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUsing computer models, we compared a range of P-loops from the P-loop NTPase family to a control group made of the same amino acids but in a different order. While these control loops are also found in proteins, they do not form nests.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlthough the P-loops and the control loops are very different in their nest-forming ability, we found that they both are able to \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1093\/molbev\/msaf055\u0022\u003Eform transient nests\u003C\/a\u003E when embedded in proteins. This meant that, contrary to popular belief, the amino acid sequence of P-loops aren\u2019t special in their ability to form nests \u2013 as would be expected if they alone were the seeds for many modern proteins.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EA Fossil Eroded Over Time\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOur work strongly suggests that while the P-loop is a molecular fossil, the true nature of its form billions of years ago may have been eroded by the sands of time.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor example, when \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1093\/molbev\/msaf055\u0022\u003Ewe repeated our simulations\u003C\/a\u003E in a different solvent \u2013 specifically methanol \u2013 we found that P-loops situated in their parent proteins were able to regain some of their ability to form nests. This doesn\u2019t mean that being in methanol drove the first proteins with P-loops to form the nests critical for life. But it does emphasize the importance of considering the surrounding environment when studying peptides and proteins.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJust as archaeologists know to be careful in how they \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/was-it-a-stone-tool-or-just-a-rock-an-archaeologist-explains-how-scientists-can-tell-the-difference-251126\u0022\u003Einterpret physical fossils\u003C\/a\u003E, historians of protein evolution could take similar care in their interpretation of molecular fossils. Our results complicate the current understanding of early protein evolution and, consequently, some aspects of the origins of life.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn resetting the field\u2019s broader understanding of how these crucial proteins emerged, scientists are poised to start rewriting our own evolutionary history on this planet.\u003C!-- Below is The Conversation\u0027s page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --\u003E\u003Cimg src=\u0022https:\/\/counter.theconversation.com\/content\/259271\/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic\u0022 alt=\u0022The Conversation\u0022 width=\u00221\u0022 height=\u00221\u0022\u003E\u003C!-- End of code. If you don\u0027t see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https:\/\/theconversation.com\/republishing-guidelines --\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis article is republished from \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThe Conversation\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E under a Creative Commons license. Read the \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/molecular-fossils-offer-microscopic-clues-to-the-origins-of-life-but-they-take-care-to-interpret-259271\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003Eoriginal article\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"full_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe questions of how humankind came to be, and whether we are alone in the universe, have captured imaginations for millennia. But to answer these questions, scientists must first understand life itself and how it could have arisen.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The questions of how humankind came to be, and whether we are alone in the universe, have captured imaginations for millennia. But to answer these questions, scientists must first understand life itself and how it could have arisen."}],"uid":"27469","created_gmt":"2025-09-17 13:13:05","changed_gmt":"2025-09-18 16:37:43","author":"Kristen Bailey","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-09-16T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-09-16T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678052":{"id":"678052","type":"image","title":"ATP synthase is an enzyme that has been using phosphate to generate life\u2019s energy for millions of years.","body":"\u003Cp\u003EATP synthase is an enzyme that has been using phosphate to generate life\u2019s energy for millions of years. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gettyimages.com\/detail\/photo\/synthase-enzyme-complex-illustration-royalty-free-image\/1328336178\u0022\u003ENanoclustering\/Science Photo Library via Getty Images\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1758125600","gmt_created":"2025-09-17 16:13:20","changed":"1758125600","gmt_changed":"2025-09-17 16:13:20","alt":"ATP synthase is an enzyme that has been using phosphate to generate life\u2019s energy for millions of years.","file":{"fid":"262030","name":"file-20250910-66-w313hf.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/17\/file-20250910-66-w313hf.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/17\/file-20250910-66-w313hf.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":182818,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/17\/file-20250910-66-w313hf.jpg?itok=wnfLg1eK"}}},"media_ids":["678052"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/theconversation.com\/molecular-fossils-offer-microscopic-clues-to-the-origins-of-life-but-they-take-care-to-interpret-259271","title":"Read This Article on The Conversation"}],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"85951","name":"School of Chemistry and Biochemistry"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71881","name":"Science and Technology"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Ch5\u003EAuthors:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/profiles\/caroline-lynn-kamerlin-2416162\u0022\u003ECaroline Lynn Kamerlin\u003C\/a\u003E, professor of chemistry and biochemistry, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/institutions\/georgia-institute-of-technology-1310\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EGeorgia Institute of Technology\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/profiles\/liam-longo-2423771\u0022\u003ELiam Longo\u003C\/a\u003E, specially appointed associate professor, Earth-Life Science Institute, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/institutions\/institute-of-science-tokyo-6525\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EInstitute of Science Tokyo\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch5\u003EMedia Contact:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShelley Wunder-Smith\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:shelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003Eshelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"684926":{"#nid":"684926","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Taps Military Talent to Boost Manufacturing Workforce","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAs the U.S. works to strengthen its industrial base and reshore critical manufacturing capabilities, workforce development has emerged as a central challenge \u2014 and opportunity.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/manufacturing.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia Tech Manufacturing Institute\u003C\/a\u003E (GTMI) recently welcomed its first Hiring Our Heroes (HOH) Fellow to help address this growing need. Lukas Berg, a retiring U.S. Army officer, will be working with GTMI to support new education and training programs aimed at preparing Georgians for careers in advanced manufacturing.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cLukas Berg brings a unique blend of operational experience, academic insight, and a deep commitment to service,\u201d said \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/people.research.gatech.edu\/node\/11182\u0022\u003EThomas Kurfess\u003C\/a\u003E, executive director of GTMI. \u201cHis perspective will be invaluable as we work to build stronger connections between Georgia\u2019s communities and the advanced manufacturing sector.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.hiringourheroes.org\/career-services\/fellowships\/\u0022\u003EHiring Our Heroes\u003C\/a\u003E is a nationwide initiative led by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation that helps veterans and military spouses transition into civilian careers through short-term fellowships. Since 2021, Georgia Tech has hosted more than two dozen HOH fellows, beginning with U.S. Army veteran \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gtri.gatech.edu\/people\/erik-andersen\u0022\u003EErik Andersen\u003C\/a\u003E, who now serves as interim deputy director for the Research, Electronics, Optics, and Systems Directorate at the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI), where he also helps lead the HOH program.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBerg is the first fellow to be placed outside of GTRI, a sign of the program\u2019s growing reach across campus and its potential to support a broader range of workforce development efforts.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIt\u2019s been exciting to see how the Hiring Our Heroes program has grown at Georgia Tech,\u201d said Andersen. \u201cBerg\u2019s placement at GTMI reflects the Institute\u2019s commitment to connecting military talent with real-world innovation and workforce development. Veterans bring a unique perspective and skill set to these challenges, and I\u2019m proud to see the program expanding to new parts of campus.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBerg\u2019s military career includes aviation command roles, teaching positions at West Point and the Joint Special Operations University, and deployments across multiple regions. At GTMI, he will be contributing to a new initiative that partners with rural school districts to introduce students to hands-on learning in advanced manufacturing, an effort designed to spark interest in high-potential career paths and support long-term workforce readiness.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith personal ties to Georgia Tech and a strong sense of purpose, Berg sees this fellowship as a meaningful next step. We spoke with him to learn more about what brought him to GTMI and how he views the role of manufacturing and workforce development in shaping the country\u2019s future.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat inspired you to pursue a fellowship at the Georgia Tech Manufacturing Institute after your military service?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELast year, I visited Georgia Tech with many of the junior officers and pilots assigned to my helicopter battalion in Savannah. Our agenda included stops at the Georgia Tech Manufacturing Institute and the Advanced Manufacturing Pilot Facility, both of which struck me as being absolutely vital to maintaining the technological edge required to fight and win on the modern battlefield. Pursuing a fellowship at GTMI felt like a natural extension of my military service, and I suspected that it would put me back at the intersection of thinkers and doers (where I have always felt most at home).\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYou mentioned your grandmother taught at Georgia Tech for over 30 years \u2014 how has her legacy influenced your academic and professional journey?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMy grandmother, Maria Venable, was the first woman to serve as a full-time faculty member in Georgia Tech\u2019s School of Modern Languages. She poured herself into both her family and her students, and I was lucky to count myself in both populations, as she agreed to tutor me for the AP German exam in high school (but only if I behaved as well as her students at Tech). Her example inspired me to pursue a teaching assignment at West Point halfway through my Army career, and I experienced the same joy in teaching that she did. It\u2019s something that I will continue to do for the rest of my life, whether in a formal or informal capacity.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECan you share more about the specific initiatives you\u0027ll be working on at GTMI related to advanced manufacturing education?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMost immediately, I am joining a new GTMI initiative that partners with rural school districts to deliver several weeks\u2019 worth of curriculum and hands-on practice in advanced manufacturing. We just kicked off a pilot program with Bainbridge High School in Decatur, and it\u2019s exciting to see their students leveraging sophisticated systems to design and build Pinewood Derby cars that would make Cub Scouts across the country green with envy. Beyond this initiative, I hope to contribute to other efforts that get young people excited about careers in manufacturing and that assist adult learners in re-skilling and up-skilling for this high-potential industry.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat are you most looking forward to as you begin your fellowship at GTMI?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech feels like a physical and intellectual crossroads of modern civilization. I\u2019m excited to not only contribute as a member of GTMI but also to learn about the countless other departments, institutes, and programs that are convening talent to solve the world\u2019s thorniest problems.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat skills or insights are you hoping to gain during your time at GTMI that will support your next career chapter?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs an Army officer, I\u2019ve been stationed across the country and deployed around the world, but Georgia has always been home. (Gladys Knight\u2019s \u201cMidnight Train to Georgia\u201d has been a fixture on my playlist since I left for West Point at the age of 17.) Now back with my family, I look forward to using my time at GTMI to learn about my home state and identify ways that I can contribute to its near and long-term prosperity, whether through roles in academia, government, or private industry. I also look forward to expanding my network in all these communities, as no single one has a monopoly on problem-solving.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhy do you believe rebuilding America\u2019s industrial base and manufacturing workforce is critical to national security today?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs a career aviator, much of my professional life was spent agonizing over the availability of parts to repair my helicopters. It seemed like there were never enough, and they always took too long to get to me. This experience, coupled with lessons learned from our support of Ukraine\u2019s self-defense, contrasted starkly with my recent study of America\u2019s 20th-century role as the \u201carsenal of democracy.\u201d I\u2019m convinced that we need to regain that reputation, and I would like to see Georgia at the forefront of associated design, manufacturing, and education initiatives.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow do you see veterans playing a unique role in strengthening the U.S. manufacturing workforce?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI think veterans are the most natural candidates in the world for roles in the manufacturing workforce. They possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities to be successful in most endeavors, but most are looking for ways to extend their service beyond their time in uniform. What better way than to contribute to a field that is so vital to our national security and prosperity?\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat does \u201cProgress and Service\u201d mean to you, and what does it mean to you personally to be contributing to that mission?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI love Tech\u2019s motto. I grew up in a family and community that reinforced at every turn the idea that our highest potential as human beings is realized when we serve others. This motivated my choice to serve in the military for the past 20 years, and it remains my North Star for this next chapter. I also love the idea of technological progress being the vehicle by which Georgia Tech collectively serves others, and I hope to accelerate this progress during my time at GTMI.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIf you could give one piece of advice to other service members considering a fellowship like this, what would it be?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInventory your passions and define your purpose. Then start reaching out to people in related fields. I have been amazed at how generous people have been with their time and how eager they have been to help me find my second calling and related opportunities.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s partnership with the Hiring Our Heroes program grows with a new fellowship placement focused on rural outreach and manufacturing workforce readiness.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech\u2019s partnership with the Hiring Our Heroes program grows with a new fellowship placement focused on rural outreach and manufacturing workforce readiness."}],"uid":"35575","created_gmt":"2025-09-16 18:04:56","changed_gmt":"2025-09-17 14:38:15","author":"adavidson38","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-09-16T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-09-16T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"678018":{"id":"678018","type":"image","title":"497731223_1107871948051058_460928682481553540_n.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003ELukas Berg (right), who flew several variants of the UH-60 Blackhawk over the course of his career, celebrated his final flight before joining the Georgia Tech Manufacturing Institute in August.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1758045905","gmt_created":"2025-09-16 18:05:05","changed":"1758045905","gmt_changed":"2025-09-16 18:05:05","alt":"Lukas Berg (right), who flew several variants of the UH-60 Blackhawk over the course of his career, celebrated his final flight before joining the Georgia Tech Manufacturing Institute in August.","file":{"fid":"261990","name":"497731223_1107871948051058_460928682481553540_n.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/16\/497731223_1107871948051058_460928682481553540_n.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/16\/497731223_1107871948051058_460928682481553540_n.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":344535,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/16\/497731223_1107871948051058_460928682481553540_n.jpg?itok=TTcvjYVr"}},"678019":{"id":"678019","type":"image","title":"Lukas-Berg-GTMI.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EBerg will be working with GTMI for the course of his fellowship with the Hiring Our Heroes program.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1758046108","gmt_created":"2025-09-16 18:08:28","changed":"1758046108","gmt_changed":"2025-09-16 18:08:28","alt":"Berg will be working with GTMI for the course of his fellowship with the Hiring Our Heroes program.","file":{"fid":"261991","name":"Lukas-Berg-GTMI.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/16\/Lukas-Berg-GTMI.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/16\/Lukas-Berg-GTMI.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":14094481,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/16\/Lukas-Berg-GTMI.jpg?itok=AyYwhmUm"}},"678020":{"id":"678020","type":"image","title":"Maria-Venable.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EMaria Venable, Berg\u0027s grandmother, joined the Georgia Tech faculty in 1963 as a 28-year-old native German speaker.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1758046193","gmt_created":"2025-09-16 18:09:53","changed":"1758046193","gmt_changed":"2025-09-16 18:09:53","alt":"Maria Venable, Berg\u0027s grandmother, joined the Georgia Tech faculty in 1963 as a 28-year-old native German speaker.","file":{"fid":"261992","name":"Maria-Venable.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/16\/Maria-Venable.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/16\/Maria-Venable.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":327739,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/16\/Maria-Venable.jpg?itok=sHFnui7w"}},"678021":{"id":"678021","type":"image","title":"Berg-Final-Flight-Family.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EBerg and his family stand next to the model of helicopter frequently flown during his career.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1758046255","gmt_created":"2025-09-16 18:10:55","changed":"1758046255","gmt_changed":"2025-09-16 18:10:55","alt":"Berg and his family stand next to the model of helicopter frequently flown during his career.","file":{"fid":"261993","name":"Berg-Final-Flight-Family.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/16\/Berg-Final-Flight-Family.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/16\/Berg-Final-Flight-Family.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":12273657,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/16\/Berg-Final-Flight-Family.jpg?itok=5nPicDlf"}}},"media_ids":["678018","678019","678020","678021"],"groups":[{"id":"155831","name":"Georgia Tech Manufacturing Institute (GTMI)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"131","name":"Economic Development and Policy"},{"id":"42911","name":"Education"},{"id":"194685","name":"Manufacturing"},{"id":"194610","name":"National Interests\/National Security"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"194612","name":"Workforce Development"}],"keywords":[{"id":"186857","name":"go-gtmi"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"193653","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute"},{"id":"39461","name":"Manufacturing, Trade, and Logistics"},{"id":"39511","name":"Public Service, Leadership, and Policy"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:audra.davidson@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EAudra Davidson\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EResearch Communications Program Manager\u003Cbr\u003EGeorgia Tech Manufacturing Institute\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["audra.davidson@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"684670":{"#nid":"684670","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Liberian Students Awarded Georgia Tech Fellowships in Computer Science","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EIn a landmark achievement for higher education and international collaboration, 12 faculty and staff from the University of Liberia have been accepted into the Georgia Institute of Technology\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/omscs.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EOnline Master of Science in Computer Science\u003C\/a\u003E (OMSCS) program. This marks the first time \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia Tech\u003C\/a\u003E has offered full fellowships to students for its acclaimed online graduate program.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe inaugural cohort began their studies in August, setting a precedent for future scholarship opportunities and academic collaboration between Georgia Tech and Liberian institutions.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe initiative results from a strategic partnership between the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ucliberia.com\/\u0022\u003EUniversity Consortium for Liberia\u003C\/a\u003E (UCL) and Georgia Tech aimed at expanding access to world-class computer science education for Liberian students. Cynthia Blandford, president and CEO of UCL and former honorary consul for the Republic of Liberia in Atlanta expressed her pride in the milestone.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe UCL\u0027s mission is to help provide brighter futures through education and understanding and this includes student and faculty exchanges, curriculum development, academic scholarships, joint research, and fundraising,\u201d said Blandford.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe announcement follows a 2023 visit to Atlanta by Liberian President Joseph Boakai during which Georgia Tech formally introduced the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/georgia-tech-introduces-new-computer-science-fellowship-during-liberian-presidential-visit\u0022\u003EOMSCS scholarship program for Liberia\u003C\/a\u003E. Michael Best, executive director of the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/ipat\u0022\u003EInstitute for People and Technology\u003C\/a\u003E at Georgia Tech emphasized the program\u0027s significance.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cGeorgia Tech was delighted to host the president of Liberia,\u201d said Best. \u201cThis is the first time the OMSCS degree at Georgia Tech is providing complete fellowships to students. I am so glad Liberia is our partner in this groundbreaking program.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe OMSCS program, hailed by Forbes as the \u201cgreatest degree program ever,\u201d is the first fully accredited online master\u2019s degree in computer science offered by a major U.S. university. It combines academic rigor with the flexibility of online learning, allowing students to earn the same degree as their on-campus peers.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBest added that completing the program will be a personal achievement for the students and a strategic investment in Liberia\u2019s future.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe graduates of this program will help to ensure that Liberia is a full participant and contributor to our digital age. These students\u2019 advanced training will position them for leadership and impact within Liberia and beyond.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUniversity of Liberia (UL) President Layli Maparyan is excited about the collaboration with Georgia Tech and UCL.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe Georgia Tech OMSCS is equipping UL\u2019s computer science faculty and IT staff with a profound degree of capacity building,\u201d she stated. \u201cThis positions UL well for planned curricular developments in AI, cybersecurity, and other key IT areas of study. We are profoundly grateful to Georgia Tech for the timely launch.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe 12 University of Liberia students accepted in the program are:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EHarris Barwu\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EClarence Carlwolo\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EViola Cheeseman\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAlieu Farhat\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EVarney Jarteh\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EFredrick Juah\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAbubakar Keita\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EYougie Kessellie\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EJosephus Nyumalin\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EMelvin Soclo\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EMichael Umunna\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EMartin Wallace\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EIn a landmark achievement for higher education and international collaboration, 12 faculty and staff from the University of Liberia have been accepted into the Georgia Institute of Technology\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/omscs.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EOnline Master of Science in Computer Science\u003C\/a\u003E (OMSCS) program\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"In a landmark achievement for higher education and international collaboration, 12 faculty and staff from the University of Liberia have been accepted into the Georgia Institute of Technology\u2019s Online Master of Science in Computer Science (OMSCS) prog"}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2025-09-09 17:33:00","changed_gmt":"2025-09-16 18:02:46","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-09-09T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-09-09T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677952":{"id":"677952","type":"image","title":"University of Liberia President Dr. Layli Maparyan","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EUniversity of Liberia President Layli Maparyan is pictured with students starting the Georgia Tech Online Master Program in Computer Science this fall 2025.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1757439061","gmt_created":"2025-09-09 17:31:01","changed":"1758045592","gmt_changed":"2025-09-16 17:59:52","alt":"University of Liberia President Layli Maparyan is pictured with students starting the Georgia Tech Online Master Program in Computer Science this fall 2025.","file":{"fid":"261913","name":"PHOTO-2025-09-09-11-17-41.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/09\/PHOTO-2025-09-09-11-17-41.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/09\/PHOTO-2025-09-09-11-17-41.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":372198,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/09\/PHOTO-2025-09-09-11-17-41.jpg?itok=2m8pUL6R"}}},"media_ids":["677952"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWalter Rich\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["walter.rich@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"683155":{"#nid":"683155","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Improved Cancer Detection, Better MRI Imaging Among 2025-2026 Biolocity Awardees","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EFive teams of researchers from Georgia Tech and Emory University were selected to accelerate their journey from lab to market. Projects include improved cancer detection and therapies, a precise surgical tool and better MRI imaging. Teams will receive funding and commercialization support during the year. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/bme.gatech.edu\/bme\/news\/improved-cancer-detection-better-mri-imaging-among-2025-2026-biolocity-awardees\u0022\u003ERead more about each project here\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ECommercialization program in Coulter BME announces project teams who will receive support to get their research to market.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Commercialization program in Coulter BME announces project teams who will receive support to get their research to market."}],"uid":"35963","created_gmt":"2025-07-16 15:50:54","changed_gmt":"2025-09-11 17:21:40","author":"kpetty30","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-07-16T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-07-16T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677435":{"id":"677435","type":"image","title":"Biolocity 2025 Social and Full Pitch Day ","body":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECommercialization program in Coulter BME announces project teams who will receive support to get their research to market.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","created":"1752679867","gmt_created":"2025-07-16 15:31:07","changed":"1752680057","gmt_changed":"2025-07-16 15:34:17","alt":"A photo shot from the back of a conference room with people sitting at conference tables while a person at the front of the room shows a presentation on a flat TV screen","file":{"fid":"261331","name":"biolocity-pitch-day-2025.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/16\/biolocity-pitch-day-2025.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/16\/biolocity-pitch-day-2025.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":12505488,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/07\/16\/biolocity-pitch-day-2025.jpg?itok=OCwrhaMN"}}},"media_ids":["677435"],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"138","name":"Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics"}],"keywords":[{"id":"182840","name":"Biolocity"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"192255","name":"go-commercializationnews"},{"id":"192256","name":"go-commercializationreserach"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"}],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:kelly.petty@bme.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EKelly Petty\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003ECommunications\u003Cbr\u003EWallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"684459":{"#nid":"684459","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Atlanta Youth to Design \u2018Future of Paper\u2019 Exhibit at Papermaking Museum","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA new educational initiative is set to teach Atlanta high school students how to create electronics, wearable devices, and other technologies that are built on paper and craft materials.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWorkshops hosted by the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/paper.gatech.edu\/visit-0\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERobert C. Williams Museum of Papermaking\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E and led by Georgia Tech Assistant Professor \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/id.gatech.edu\/people\/hyunjoo-oh\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHyunJoo Oh\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E will introduce about 60 students from Atlanta Public Schools to paper-based electronics through hands-on workshops.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Williams Museum will open an exhibit titled \u201cThe Future of Paper\u201d that displays designs created in the workshop alongside visionary examples of paper-based technologies from Georgia Tech researchers.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe exhibit, funded by the National Science Foundation, is slated to open to the public in 2027.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOh is a researcher with joint appointments in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ic.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESchool of Interactive Computing\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E and the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/id.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESchool of Industrial Design.\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E She leads the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.codecraft.group\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EComputational Design and Craft (CoDe Craft) Group\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E at Georgia Tech, where her team integrates everyday craft materials with computing to support creative exploration.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOh believes paper could be widely used to support prototyping printed circuit boards (PCBs) as a sustainable alternative to silicon. While silicon is the most prominent material used by technology companies to build computer chips, it isn\u2019t biodegradable. And it can be harmful to the environment and contribute to e-waste.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPaper, however, provides an eco-friendly platform for printing conductive traces and mounting small electronic components. With the expansion of printed electronic tools and techniques, paper and similar materials have become more popular among technologists who develop sensing technologies and wearable devices.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIt\u2019s widely available and accessible,\u201d Oh said. \u201cI can\u2019t think of anything more affordable and approachable that young makers and the broader maker community can use for circuits than paper.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cPrinted electronics traditionally required expensive equipment, but with recent innovation in materials science, conductive materials such as conductive pens and paint available in local arts and crafts stores can be used to build circuits on paper. We can also print circuits using a regular office inkjet printer with silver ink.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch4\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EShared Vision\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h4\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShortly after arriving at Georgia Tech in 2019, Oh knew she had to develop a project that would let her partner with the Williams Museum.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cI was captivated by the museum\u2019s space and its celebration of paper,\u201d she said. \u201cI wanted a collaboration that would integrate technology in a way that complemented and respected the museum\u2019s existing beauty.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMuseum director Virginia Howell said the project was a perfect match for the museum, which has documented the history of papermaking since it was founded in 1939 by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Georgia Tech became the new home of the museum in 2003.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith more than 100,000 objects in its collection \u2014 some dating back as far as 2,000 years ago \u2014 the museum is unique, Howell said. Most papermaking museums are typically located at an historic mill, but the Williams Museum covers the history of papermaking.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHowell said that before she met Oh, she had been looking for an exhibit that would display the possible future of papermaking.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe do the past of paper fantastically well, and we do the present of paper well through our changing exhibitions,\u201d Howell said. \u201cThe future of paper is something we haven\u2019t spent a lot of time interpreting.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch4\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECrafting the Future\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/h4\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOh and Howell agree that young people will shape that future. Oh said paper is commonly linked to art in the education sphere. As the material\u2019s use in technology increases, however, it can funnel the interests of students toward engineering and computing.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIncorporating paper and craft materials can invite more students to explore engineering and computing concepts. After all, a circuit board created on paper isn\u2019t so different from one built on a silicon PCB, Oh said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThis approach can excite the kind of students who usually feel disconnected from electronics and computing,\u201d she said. \u201cIt gives those who only see themselves as creative or artistic a way to enjoy technology and resonate with it.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cUsually when I work with young students, especially girls, if I start with something technical, their interest wanes. But when I present those same ideas through art using familiar materials like paper, they become more engaged and confident. That\u2019s when they start to flourish.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOh and Howell will hold three rounds of 10-week workshops for the students \u2014 spring 2026, fall 2026, and spring 2027. The best designs from those workshops will be displayed in the exhibit.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThey\u2019ll feel more comfortable with computing and engineering as an introductory experience,\u201d Howell said. \u201cWhen they successfully build on it and realize they did this on a sheet of paper, it\u2019s exciting to think what they\u2019ll do when they get more sophisticated tools and access.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA new educational initiative, funded by the National Science Foundation, will teach Atlanta high school students how to create paper-based electronic devices. The workshops, led by Georgia Tech Assistant Professor HyunJoo Oh, will be hosted at the Robert C. Williams Museum of Papermaking. The workshops will culminate in a public exhibition of their work in 2027.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Paper-based electronics and student scientists"}],"uid":"30829","created_gmt":"2025-09-05 17:02:03","changed_gmt":"2025-09-05 17:12:45","author":"Virginia Howell","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-09-05T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-09-05T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677819":{"id":"677819","type":"image","title":"Hyunjoo-Oh_86A9064-Enhanced-NR.jpg","body":null,"created":"1756309437","gmt_created":"2025-08-27 15:43:57","changed":"1756309437","gmt_changed":"2025-08-27 15:43:57","alt":"HyunJoo Oh","file":{"fid":"261760","name":"Hyunjoo-Oh_86A9064-Enhanced-NR.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/27\/Hyunjoo-Oh_86A9064-Enhanced-NR.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/27\/Hyunjoo-Oh_86A9064-Enhanced-NR.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":130876,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/08\/27\/Hyunjoo-Oh_86A9064-Enhanced-NR.jpg?itok=noERIW_h"}}},"media_ids":["677819"],"groups":[{"id":"372221","name":"Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI)"},{"id":"508641","name":"Robert C. Williams Museum of Papermaking"}],"categories":[{"id":"179356","name":"Industrial Design"}],"keywords":[{"id":"168606","name":"Robert C. Williams Museum of Papermaking"},{"id":"93791","name":"Renewable Bioproducts Institute"},{"id":"362","name":"National Science Foundation"},{"id":"38451","name":"georgia tech school of industrial design"},{"id":"9153","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"64711","name":"eco-friendly"},{"id":"188363","name":"rcw-news"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39491","name":"Renewable Bioproducts"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ENathan Deen\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["ndeen6@gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"684349":{"#nid":"684349","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Steeped in Success: Georgia Tech Brews New Opportunities for Chai Startup","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s Georgia Manufacturing Extension Partnership (GaMEP) helped transform The Chai Box\u2014a family\u2011run business born in Marietta\u2014into a nationally recognized brand by guiding them through rigorous food safety audits for retailers like Costco, streamlining production, and boosting their revenue by 20\u202f%. This collaboration not only enabled larger scale success and a feature in \u003Cem\u003EForbes\u003C\/em\u003E, but vividly illustrated how applied research can turn cultural legacy into commercial opportunities.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/impact\/workforce\/chai-box?utm_source=research_home_page\u0026amp;utm_medium=banner\u0026amp;utm_id=chai_box\u0026amp;utm_content=chai_box_research_home_page_banner\u0022\u003ELearn more.\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s expertise helped The Chai Box transform a family ritual into a successful product featured in Costco and on the pages of Forbes magazine. It\u2019s the perfect blend of heritage, research, and real-life results.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech\u2019s expertise helped The Chai Box transform a family ritual into a successful product featured in Costco and on the pages of Forbes magazine. It\u2019s the perfect blend of heritage, research, and real-life results."}],"uid":"36410","created_gmt":"2025-09-02 21:50:14","changed_gmt":"2025-09-04 13:56:45","author":"mazriel3","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-09-02T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-09-02T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"groups":[{"id":"155831","name":"Georgia Tech Manufacturing Institute (GTMI)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"139","name":"Business"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"187190","name":"-go-gtmi"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"193658","name":"Commercialization"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"668365":{"#nid":"668365","#data":{"type":"news","title":"The Second Research Test News Item","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ENow testing on the research site locally for over writing.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E10:55 am\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENeeding to update this article to see the auto pull and notice ios the Infinite check box gets overwritten.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Eseptember 2, 2025\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBacon ipsum dolor amet pork loin swine cupim turkey landjaeger hamburger turducken picanha porchetta chislic t-bone venison shank. Jerky chislic beef strip steak, flank corned beef pork loin short loin sausage. Spare ribs venison kevin, ham hock swine pastrami hamburger shoulder sirloin ground round cupim tail brisket salami jowl. T-bone turkey meatball chislic cupim, shoulder ground round ball tip meatloaf flank alcatra pastrami leberkas pork loin. Landjaeger capicola shank turducken kielbasa, turkey rump hamburger tri-tip. Turkey short loin leberkas picanha ham hock.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECupim pork loin flank shoulder burgdoggen. Hamburger burgdoggen t-bone tongue cupim. Pork loin frankfurter boudin tail, pancetta meatloaf pork chicken filet mignon cupim brisket alcatra. Fatback t-bone alcatra, cow filet mignon brisket hamburger picanha spare ribs. Tenderloin turducken sausage shoulder, brisket ground round tri-tip tongue chuck pork chop ball tip t-bone buffalo prosciutto. Boudin ball tip buffalo, pork loin bresaola leberkas pancetta salami doner. Pork chop tri-tip andouille beef tongue filet mignon strip steak.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECorned beef t-bone ball tip, sausage ham hock hamburger chuck strip steak shankle beef frankfurter chicken pork belly tenderloin. Frankfurter tenderloin ribeye pork chop, t-bone pork belly beef jerky shoulder. Cupim short ribs jerky drumstick. Tongue venison turducken landjaeger meatball pork loin burgdoggen ribeye spare ribs. Salami pork loin chicken capicola.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ELandjaeger capicola shank turducken kielbasa, turkey rump hamburger tri-tip. Turkey short loin leberkas picanha ham hock.\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Testing Related Keywords"}],"uid":"28778","created_gmt":"2023-07-06 13:36:15","changed_gmt":"2025-09-02 14:55:32","author":"Timothy Whelan","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2023-07-06T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2023-07-06T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"676393":{"id":"676393","type":"video","title":"Tim Test Video for News","body":null,"created":"1740517422","gmt_created":"2025-02-25 21:03:42","changed":"1740517422","gmt_changed":"2025-02-25 21:03:42","video":{"youtube_id":"OArLbn9rSmM","video_url":"https:\/\/youtu.be\/OArLbn9rSmM?si=eo7IogAnfxhcrVqw"}}},"media_ids":["676393"],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"}],"categories":[{"id":"42901","name":"Community"},{"id":"153","name":"Computer Science\/Information Technology and Security"},{"id":"143","name":"Digital Media and Entertainment"}],"keywords":[{"id":"190280","name":"go-timwhelan"}],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ETim Whelan\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003Etim.whelan@research.gatech.edu\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWeb Dev Lead\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"684297":{"#nid":"684297","#data":{"type":"news","title":"IPaT and GTRI Seed Funding Awarded to Four Projects","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Institute for People and Technology at Georgia Tech (IPaT) and the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) co-sponsored more than $55,000 in seed grant awards to four research projects. These 2025-2026 IPaT\/GTRI newly awarded grants provide seed funding for new research collaborations or provide support for new forms of internal and external research community engagement and collaboration.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECongratulations to these four winning project teams:\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1) Proposal title: Building a Research to Impact Collaborative on AI and Global Health\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EResearch overview:\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003EResearch and practice at the intersection of AI and global health has grown rapidly in the last few years, yet most of these efforts are fragmented and disconnected. There is a pressing need for spaces that facilitate knowledge-sharing and resource coordination in this space. We are thus launching a global, interdisciplinary Research to Impact Collaborative (RIC) on AI and global health that will: 1) support knowledge-sharing across research and practice, 2) facilitate student learning, and 3) accelerate cross-sector collaborations. To catalyze the RIC, we will conduct a year-long virtual seminar series and in-person workshops that will bring together researchers, practitioners, and students. This initiative will position Georgia Tech as a leader in AI and global health, build a lasting collaborative, and lay the foundation for interdisciplinary collaborations and future funding.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETeam members:\u003C\/strong\u003E Naveena Karusala, Neha Kumar, and Munmun De Choudhury at the School of Interactive Computing; Kai Wang at the School of Computational Science and Engineering; Gari Clifford at the Department of Biomedical Engineering. Additional members: Azra Ismail (Emory University), Anupriya Tuli and Madeline Balaam (KTH), Pushpendra Singh (IIIT-Delhi), Melissa Densmore (University of Cape Town), Naomi Yamashita (Kyoto University), Neha Madhiwalla (ARMMAN), Shirley Yan and Anubhav Arora (Noora Health)\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E2) Proposal title: Project: Are Data Centers the New Landfills?\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EResearch overview:\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003EData centers are growing rapidly in the U.S., with nowhere more notable than in Georgia, particularly in the Atlanta metropolitan region (Berger, 2025). This expansion continues as policymakers and the data center industry position data centers as a source of innovation in artificial intelligence (AI), national security, and economic growth brought by the financial returns of data centers. Data center energy use has nearly tripled in the last decade to a total of 4.4% of electricity use in the US and may triple again over the next decade (Shehabi et al., 2024). This growth is driven by increasing demands for data-intensive technologies and applications, like AI, and a data center-friendly policy climate in Georgia (see Georgia HB1291). Like landfills, data centers are often sited in ways that impose local external costs, impacting important aspects of everyday life, such as water security, energy prices, taxes, jobs, housing, and air quality. In Georgia, a proposed data center consumes approximately 6 million gallons of water per day, a volume equivalent to filling nine Olympic-sized swimming pools (Mecke, 2025). Furthermore, the tax revenue that Georgia generates from data centers is estimated to be far less than the cost of incentives provided to the industry (e.g. subsidies for equipment), resulting in a negative state fiscal impact of $18 million in 2021 (Hardee et al., 2022). This proposed IPAT Research Grant investigates the trade-offs in constructing data centers, weighing the economic benefits against their external impacts on local Atlanta communities. In doing so, we aim to develop the next generation of responsible and ethical data centers that aim to inform and empower communities exposed to the externalities imposed by data centers. Scholars of data centers argue that community experiences of data centers rarely feature alongside the dominant promises of data centers such as economic growth and technological innovation (Zander 2024). Highlighting these alternative experiences, we will suggest policy and data tools to better site, deploy, and discuss how data centers are built, maintained, and shape the lives of their neighbors.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETeam members:\u003C\/strong\u003E \u0026nbsp;Cindy Lin and Josiah Hester, School of Interactive Computing; Allen Hyde, School of History and Sociology; Joe Bozeman III, School of Civil Engineering; Elora Raymond, School of City and Regional Planning; Anthony Harding, School of Public Policy and Jung Ho Lewe, School of Aerospace Engineering.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E3) Proposal title:\u003C\/strong\u003E The Sound of Motion: Transforming Artistic Body Movement into Music for Motor Therapy Investigators\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EResearch overview:\u003C\/strong\u003E This research proposal aims to initiate a new collaborative project across the Colleges of Sciences, Computing, and Liberal Arts to start designing and developing a novel platform that enables augmented artistic expression exercise through body movements as instruments. When a person moves their trunk, legs, arms, or a handheld object (e.g., a Wizarding wand), the platform will transform their movement trajectories into the associated sounds of musical instruments (i.e., sonification). Turning the movement trajectories into sounds will enable people with motor disabilities (e.g., Parkinson\u2019s disease; stroke) to express their artistry with their less-impaired body parts. Additionally, developing augmented artistic exercises as a new rehabilitation paradigm may stimulate previously untapped neuromotor strategies and facilitate motor recovery. Furthermore, the quality of artistic movement can be objectively assessed through this platform. Experts in human motor control (Shinohara), sonification and human-AI interaction (Walker), and human-computer interaction in the performing arts (Trajkova) will combine their complementary expertise to design and develop such a multimodal system, demonstrating proof of concept. This interdisciplinary R\u0026amp;D will benefit older adults and individuals with motor impairments by enhancing their well-being by introducing new, enjoyable, engaging, and rewarding artistic expressions or exercises. Such activities can enhance the release of neurotransmitters that facilitate neural plasticity (e.g., dopamine), ultimately leading to improved motor function.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETeam members:\u003C\/strong\u003E Minoru Shinohara, College of Sciences; Bruce Walker, College of Computing; Milka Trajkova, Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts; Joshua Posen, College of Engineering.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E4) Proposal title:\u003C\/strong\u003E Generating Space-making Companion Robot Behaviors through Large Language Models (LLMs) for Morally Ambiguous Situations.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EResearch overview:\u003C\/strong\u003E Increasingly operating in public spaces and urban life, robots can be easily caught in such morally ambiguous situations, which are often dynamic, complex, and unpredictable, presenting novel factors and agencies that can quickly exceed the scope of any projected (or pre-programmed) human-robot interaction. LLMs are well-suited to interpreting specific scenarios and producing logically coherent responses, which makes them ideal for contexts where pre-programming robot behavior is impractical. In this project, we investigate whether and how LLMs can generate appropriate behaviors for a space-making robot reading companion in morally ambiguous situations.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETeam members:\u003C\/strong\u003E Yixiao Wang, School of Industrial Design; Tyler Cook, Carter School of Public Policy; Shreyas C Kousik, School of Mechanical Engineering.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Institute for People and Technology at Georgia Tech (IPaT) and the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) co-sponsored more than $55,000 in seed grant awards to four research projects.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The Institute for People and Technology at Georgia Tech (IPaT) and the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) co-sponsored more than $55,000 in seed grant awards to four research projects. "}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2025-08-29 17:23:08","changed_gmt":"2025-08-29 17:24:58","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-08-29T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-08-29T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677859":{"id":"677859","type":"image","title":"screen_1087.png","body":null,"created":"1756488072","gmt_created":"2025-08-29 17:21:12","changed":"1756993540","gmt_changed":"2025-09-04 13:45:40","alt":"IPaT-GTRI 2025-2026 Seed Grant Winners","file":{"fid":"261862","name":"screen_1087.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/04\/screen_1087.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/09\/04\/screen_1087.png","mime":"image\/png","size":806818,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/09\/04\/screen_1087.png?itok=_o_x3s8N"}}},"media_ids":["677859"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWalter Rich\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["walter.rich@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"683086":{"#nid":"683086","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech AI Tool Cuts Supply Chain Planning from Hours to Minutes","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EResearchers at Georgia Tech have developed a new artificial intelligence tool that dramatically improves how companies plan their supply chains, cutting down the time and cost it takes to generate complex production and inventory schedules.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe tool, known as PROPEL, combines machine learning with optimization techniques to help manufacturers make better decisions in less time. It was created by researchers at the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.ai4opt.org\/\u0022\u003ENSF AI Institute for Advances in Optimization\u003C\/a\u003E, or AI4OPT, based at \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia Tech\u003C\/a\u003E under \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/ai.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ETech AI\u003C\/a\u003E (the AI Hub at Georgia Tech).\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe technology is already being tested on real-world supply chain data provided by \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.kinaxis.com\/\u0022\u003EKinaxis\u003C\/a\u003E, a Canada-based company that supplies planning software to global manufacturers in industries ranging from automotive to consumer goods.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/vahid-eghbal-akhlaghi-961854344\u0022\u003EVahid Eghbal Akhlaghi\u003C\/a\u003E, senior research scientist at Kinaxis and former postdoctoral fellow at AI4OPT and the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.isye.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EH. Milton Stewart School of Industrial and Systems Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E (ISyE) at Georgia Tech, said, \u201cOur industry partner has been instrumental in shaping PROPEL\u2019s capabilities. By validating the approach with real operational data, we ensured it addresses true bottlenecks in supply chain planning.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022PROPEL represents a leap forward in how we tackle massive, complex planning problems,\u0022 said \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ai.gatech.edu\/node\/21324\u0022\u003EPascal Van Hentenryck\u003C\/a\u003E, lead researcher, the director of Tech AI and the NSF AI4OPT Institute, and the A. Russell Chandler III Chair and Professor at Georgia Tech with appointments in the colleges of engineering and computing. \u0022By combining supervised and reinforcement learning, we can make near-optimal industrial-scale decisions, an order of magnitude faster.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETraditional supply chain planning problems are typically solved using mathematical models that require immense computing power\u2014often too much to meet real-time business needs. PROPEL, short for Predict-Relax-Optimize using LEarning, reduces this burden by teaching the AI model to first eliminate irrelevant decisions and then fine-tune the solution to meet quality standards.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.isye.gatech.edu\/users\/reza-zandehshahvar\u0022\u003EReza\u0026nbsp;Zandehshahvar\u003C\/a\u003E, one of the paper\u2019s co-authors and postdoctoral fellow with the NSF AI4OPT and the H. Milton Stewart School of Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISyE) at Georgia Tech, said the breakthrough lies not just in the AI algorithms but in how they\u0027re trained and deployed at scale.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cMany AI models struggle when applied to problems with millions of variables. PROPEL was built from the ground up to handle industrial complexity, not just academic examples,\u201d Zandehshahvar said. \u201cWe\u2019re seeing real improvements in both solution speed and quality.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;In trials using Kinaxis\u2019 historical industrial data, PROPEL achieved an 88% reduction in the time needed to find a high-quality plan and improved solution accuracy by more than 60% compared to conventional methods.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile many AI methods in supply chain rely on simulated data or simplified models, PROPEL\u2019s performance has been validated using real-world scenarios, ensuring its reliability in high-stakes operational settings.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Georgia Tech team says PROPEL could benefit industries that manage large, multi-tiered production networks, including pharmaceuticals, electronics, and heavy manufacturing. The researchers are now exploring partnerships with additional companies to deploy PROPEL in live environments.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAccess the abstract on \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/arxiv.org\/abs\/2504.07383\u0022\u003EarXiv\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EResearchers at Georgia Tech have developed a new artificial intelligence tool that dramatically improves how companies plan their supply chains, cutting down the time and cost it takes to generate complex production and inventory schedules.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"PROPEL, a new AI tool combines machine learning with optimization techniques to help manufacturers make better decisions in less time."}],"uid":"36348","created_gmt":"2025-07-10 14:39:10","changed_gmt":"2025-08-29 14:42:42","author":"Breon Martin","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-07-10T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-07-10T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677380":{"id":"677380","type":"image","title":"Georgia Tech AI Tool Cuts Supply Chain Planning from Hours to Minutes Article Image","body":null,"created":"1752158373","gmt_created":"2025-07-10 14:39:33","changed":"1752158373","gmt_changed":"2025-07-10 14:39:33","alt":"Georgia Tech AI Tool Cuts Supply Chain Planning from Hours to Minutes Article Image","file":{"fid":"261274","name":"PROPEL-IMAGE.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/10\/PROPEL-IMAGE.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/10\/PROPEL-IMAGE.png","mime":"image\/png","size":3094480,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/07\/10\/PROPEL-IMAGE.png?itok=Dtbjafx4"}}},"media_ids":["677380"],"groups":[{"id":"155831","name":"Georgia Tech Manufacturing Institute (GTMI)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"194609","name":"Industry"}],"keywords":[{"id":"192863","name":"go-ai"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"186857","name":"go-gtmi"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"193655","name":"Artificial Intelligence at Georgia Tech"},{"id":"39461","name":"Manufacturing, Trade, and Logistics"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EBreon Martin\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAI Marketing Communications Manager\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["breon@gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"684263":{"#nid":"684263","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Plugged Him In. Now He\u2019s Wired for Problem-Solving","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EScott Gilliland\u2019s winding path led to breakthroughs in wearable tech that solve challenges for people with Parkinson\u2019s and help us understand dolphin communication.\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA research team in the Atlantic Ocean listens to dolphins, testing technology that may one day decode their communication system. Thousands of miles away, a Parkinson\u2019s patient may speak more clearly, thanks to a device that helps them overcome speech challenges caused by the condition. One sounds like science fiction; the other is a transformative medical breakthrough. Yet both are rooted in the same field of research: ubiquitous computing.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EScott Gilliland\u003C\/strong\u003E, a senior research scientist at Georgia Tech\u2019s Institute for People and Technology (IPaT), has played a key role in developing these technologies. IPaT connects researchers across disciplines to turn innovative ideas into practical applications. It\u2019s a natural fit for Gilliland, whose work blends human-centered design with embedded systems, which are small computers built into everyday devices to perform specific tasks.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs a researcher, he often partners with colleagues in the College of Computing, where he also earned his bachelor\u2019s and master\u2019s degrees. His work in ubiquitous computing and wearable systems is quietly reshaping how we interact with the world.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cUbiquitous computing\u201d refers to technology that is embedded in everyday objects and environments \u2014 for example, clothing. It makes computing power accessible without being intrusive. Gilliland\u2019s projects span different fields of study that aim for the same goal: real-world benefit through innovative, human-centered technology.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/feature\/unexpected-paths\/scott-gilliland\u0022\u003ELearn more about research scientist Scott Gilliland \u0026gt;\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EScott Gilliland\u2019s winding path led to breakthroughs in wearable tech that solve challenges for people with Parkinson\u2019s and help us understand dolphin communication.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Scott Gilliland\u2019s winding path led to breakthroughs in wearable tech that solve challenges for people with Parkinson\u2019s and help us understand dolphin communication."}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2025-08-28 18:32:53","changed_gmt":"2025-08-28 18:34:10","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-08-28T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-08-28T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677848":{"id":"677848","type":"image","title":"Scott Gilliland","body":"\u003Cp\u003EScott Gilliland, senior research scientist at Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/ipat\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EInstitute for People and Technology\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1756405726","gmt_created":"2025-08-28 18:28:46","changed":"1756405791","gmt_changed":"2025-08-28 18:29:51","alt":"Scott Gilliland","file":{"fid":"261794","name":"Unexpected-Paths_August-Issue_Scott-Gilliland-16.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/28\/Unexpected-Paths_August-Issue_Scott-Gilliland-16.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/28\/Unexpected-Paths_August-Issue_Scott-Gilliland-16.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1713077,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/08\/28\/Unexpected-Paths_August-Issue_Scott-Gilliland-16.jpg?itok=k9JXMSQd"}}},"media_ids":["677848"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"684250":{"#nid":"684250","#data":{"type":"news","title":"GTRI Will be Prominent Partner With New Space Research Institute, Says Executive Director Jud Ready","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EW. Jud Ready, Ph.D., a longtime leader in space-related research at the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) for more than two decades, has been appointed as the inaugural executive director of Georgia Tech\u2019s newly established Space Research Institute (SRI). With his extensive background in engineered materials and proven track record in managing groundbreaking research projects, Georgia Tech\u2019s space innovation leadership is ready to \u201cblast off.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESRI\u0026nbsp;will become the center of all things space-related at the Institute. It will work in partnership with academics, business partners, philanthropists, students, and governments.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReady says the role of SRI is \u201cto amplify the space-based research environment that we have had for decades at Georgia Tech by providing dedicated facility, communications, collaboration, and financial resources, as well as assistance on large-scale proposals.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe existence of SRI is directly tied to one of Georgia Tech\u2019s \u201cBig Bets,\u201d outlined in the Institute\u2019s current Strategic Plan: \u201c\u003Cstrong\u003EDouble the Scale and Amplify the Impact of Our Research Enterprise.\u201d\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EGTRI to Play a Prominent Role With SRI\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cGTRI has an unfair advantage in so many areas: we\u0027ve got great capabilities, great people, great equipment, great connections across the United States as well as the globe,\u201d said Ready. \u201cTo be able to take curiosity-driven fundamental research and turn it into a widget, whether that widget is a radar or a spacecraft or whatever it may be, GTRI is good at that.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe\u0027re not a commercial entity, so we\u0027re not trying to make thousands, hundreds, or even dozens of a device or a system. We\u0027re very good at one-off prototypes, and that\u0027s what space research is. We\u0027re not trying to build a constellation of 1,000s of \u2018Starlink\u2019 satellites. We are trying to create sensors, systems, spacecraft, constellations -- whatever it takes \u2013 to solve problems, whether they\u0027re national security problems, scientific problems, economic problems, communication problems -- there are many uses for spacecraft.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReady\u2019s vision for SRI emphasizes leveraging and enhancing the robust infrastructure already in place at GT and GTRI, including C-SHAFT (Center for Space Hardware Assembly, Fabrication and Testing). As he articulated during his \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/mediaspace.gatech.edu\/media\/Jud+Ready%3A+Space+Research+Institute+Candidate+vision+talk\/1_t8w65gtf\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Evision presentation\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, before being named to the executive director role, he views GTRI facilities such as thermal vacuum chambers and ground station networks as strategic assets that provide Georgia Tech with a significant competitive edge in space research and exploration.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReady\u2019s leadership will emphasize bridging the robust academic and research elements within Georgia Tech to include all Colleges and GTRI. By strengthening the collaborative relationship among all arms of the Institute, Ready seeks to enhance Georgia Tech\u2019s institutional capacity for securing competitive federal, industry and philanthropic funding. He plans to strategically use GTRI\u2019s contract vehicles, such as its University Affiliated Research Center (UARC) agreements, to streamline funding processes, thereby advancing GTRI\u2019s and Georgia Tech\u2019s collective research enterprise.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnder Ready\u2019s direction, educational and outreach initiatives will also expand significantly. Ready says he intends to draw on previous Georgia Tech successes, such as the Symposium on Space Innovations and championing \u201cK through gray\u201d educational programs. He intends to integrate educational activities that involve both academic and research personnel from across Georgia Tech and GTRI. These efforts aim to support the existing cadre of space engineering professionals, as well as cultivate a new generation of engineers and scientists equipped with the skills and experiences necessary for leadership in space technology.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EQ\u0026amp;A with Jud Ready, SRI Executive Director\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EQ: What are your initial, big priorities for SRI?\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReady:\u003C\/strong\u003E We\u0027re looking for partnerships internally at Georgia Tech, within GTRI, in Georgia, and externally. Whether governmental, philanthropic, or industrial sponsorships, that\u0027s what we\u0027re seeking. We want SRI to help faculty, students, small businesses, major corporations, and the USA in general succeed in space.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EQ: How soon and how aggressively will you pursue funding and sponsorships?\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReady:\u003C\/strong\u003E \u0022Immediately. We\u0027ve already got proposals pending. We\u0027ll continue pursuing federal funding, corporate funding, and philanthropic efforts. Space access has become much cheaper, opening new funding avenues.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EQ: Will SRI take over existing projects such as Lunar Flashlight (a CubeSat integrated and tested by GTRI and operated by Georgia Tech) or MISSE (a NASA mission series in which GTRI is heavily involved)?\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReady:\u003C\/strong\u003E \u0022No, SRI won\u2019t take over someone\u0027s research projects. SRI will not be a principal investigator. It enables individual principal investigators, providing necessary resources, whether they\u0027re at GTRI, GT, or industry.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EQ: Does SRI have a physical space, lab space, cleanrooms, etc.?\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReady:\u003C\/strong\u003E \u0022The administrative offices are in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/coda.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECoda building\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E. But the resources we have at Georgia Tech and GTRI aren\u0027t moving. We have cleanrooms and testing facilities at Baker and Cobb County, antennas for communication, and eventually, we\u0027ll have a new building near Coca-Cola Tower.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EQ: Given the long-term nature of space research, do you have a short-term plan for SRI?\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReady:\u003C\/strong\u003E \u0022I\u0027ve certainly got a 90-day plan. We\u0027ll have something going on every month this fall. We\u2019ll release an RFP for our CPI (centers, programs, initiatives) process around Labor Day. The LSIC fall meeting is at Georgia Tech on November 5-6. We\u0027re also organizing a networking event and a star-watching party for homecoming in October.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EQ: Will you maintain your existing appointments at Georgia Tech and GTRI?\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReady:\u003C\/strong\u003E \u0022Yes, I\u0027m still 50\/50. Technically, 49% SRI and 51% GTRI, so I didn\u0027t have to reorganize my reporting chain. I\u2019ve dialed back my teaching a notch and only plan to teach my Material Science and Engineering of Sports class (MSE3300) next spring, but I will also be teaching my \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/catalog.gatech.edu\/coursesaz\/vip\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EVertically Integrated Project (VIP\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E) class in the fall. And, of course, advising several graduate students along the way.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EQ: Is there more to Jud Ready than just space research?\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReady:\u003C\/strong\u003E \u0022I haven\u2019t stopped thinking about space since Skylab. But yes, I like things more than space. I\u0027m also a scout leader. I enjoy camping, fishing, sailing, and sports, especially, even though, historically, I\u2019ve been exceptionally mediocre at them.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s 11 IRIs support collaboration between researchers and students across the Institute\u2019s seven colleges, the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI), national laboratories, and corporate entities to tackle critical topics of strategic significance for the Institute as well as for local, state, national, and international communities.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EW. Jud Ready, Ph.D., a longtime leader in space-related research at the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) for more than two decades, has been appointed as the inaugural executive director of Georgia Tech\u2019s newly established Space Research Institute (SRI). With his extensive background in engineered materials and proven track record in managing groundbreaking research projects, Georgia Tech\u2019s space innovation leadership is ready to \u201cblast off.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"SRI will become the center of all things space-related at the Institute. It will work in partnership with academics, business partners, philanthropists, students, and governments."}],"uid":"35875","created_gmt":"2025-08-28 13:57:32","changed_gmt":"2025-08-28 14:01:26","author":"cweems8","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-07-09T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-07-09T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677835":{"id":"677835","type":"image","title":"Ready--Jud_2022_v3_0.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EW. Jud Ready, Ph.D.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1756389480","gmt_created":"2025-08-28 13:58:00","changed":"1756389480","gmt_changed":"2025-08-28 13:58:00","alt":"W. Jud Ready, Ph.D.","file":{"fid":"261780","name":"Ready--Jud_2022_v3_0.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/28\/Ready--Jud_2022_v3_0.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/28\/Ready--Jud_2022_v3_0.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":3029306,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/08\/28\/Ready--Jud_2022_v3_0.jpg?itok=chDny9UC"}},"677836":{"id":"677836","type":"image","title":"jud-ready-solar-cells_0.jpeg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EJud Ready holds a sample of a perovskite solar cell, along with other samples similar to those launched to the International Space Station.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1752069551","gmt_created":"2025-07-09 13:59:11","changed":"1756389551","gmt_changed":"2025-08-28 13:59:11","alt":"Jud Ready holds a sample of a perovskite solar cell, along with other samples similar to those launched to the International Space Station.","file":{"fid":"261781","name":"jud-ready-solar-cells_0.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/28\/jud-ready-solar-cells_0.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/28\/jud-ready-solar-cells_0.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":35665,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/08\/28\/jud-ready-solar-cells_0.jpeg?itok=Ug4ATUYO"}}},"media_ids":["677835","677836"],"groups":[{"id":"1276","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI)"}],"categories":[{"id":"136","name":"Aerospace"}],"keywords":[],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"193657","name":"Space Research Initiative"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":["christopher.weems@gtri.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"684249":{"#nid":"684249","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Institute Researcher Paul Schlumper Reflects on Hurricane Katrina, 20 Years Later","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWhen Hurricane Katrina made landfall on the Gulf Coast on Aug. 29, 2005, it left behind devastation on an almost unimaginable scale. More than 1,800 people were killed, millions were displaced, and entire communities across Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama were forever changed.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cimg src=\u0022https:\/\/gtri.gatech.edu\/public\/prod\/inline-images\/Paul_schlumper.jpg\u0022 alt=\u0022Paul Schlumper\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022978ed691-f287-4d4d-820c-745b9d3dabe1\u0022 width=\u0022500\u0022 height=\u0022500\u0022\u003EAmong those who responded in the aftermath was Paul Schlumper, then a research engineer with the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI).\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.osha.gov\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOccupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E called upon his team to help train recovery workers and residents on how to protect themselves while rebuilding in hazardous conditions.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cOur cornerstone program is the on-site safety and health consultation program,\u201d Schlumper explained. \u201cWe\u2019ve been doing that since the late 1970s, and OSHA knew about us. When Katrina hit, they saw that as an opportunity for us to help and go down to the region and assist with a little bit of the response, but primarily the recovery efforts.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe first challenge was simply getting to the affected areas. Hotels in Biloxi and Gulfport were either destroyed or filled with FEMA personnel and first responders. \u201cInitially we had to stay in Mobile and then drive over to the Gulfport-Biloxi area because there weren\u2019t any hotels available,\u201d Schlumper recalled. \u201cOnce we got going for a while, some of the hotels in the Gulfport-Biloxi area opened up, and we were able to travel straight down there.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHis team was on the ground within weeks of the storm, but it took until December to begin large-scale training sessions. \u201cFor the first few months, we really just networked, met with people, tried to get a feel for the area. After a few months, we were able to set up a good deal of safety and health-related training.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cimg src=\u0022https:\/\/gtri.gatech.edu\/public\/prod\/inline-images\/Paul%20Schlumper%20conducting%20traing%20to%20Hurricane%20Katrina%20recovery%20workers%20inside%20a%20temporary%20tent%20in%202005.jpg\u0022 alt=\u0022Paul Schlumper (left) conducting training with Hurricane Katrina recovery workers inside a temporary tent in 2005.\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u00220b47a240-bd73-4352-b195-7a5428d095a3\u0022 width=\u00221050\u0022 height=\u0022960\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EPaul Schlumper (left) conducts training with Hurricane Katrina recovery workers inside a temporary tent in 2005.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe list of dangers was long. \u201cThe immediate concerns that were expressed to us were things like chainsaw safety, fall protection, and electrical safety,\u201d Schlumper said. \u201cMold was huge from a health standpoint. After a period of time with all that moisture, there\u2019s going to be mold.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHis team also emphasized personal protective equipment. \u201cWhatever work people were doing, we wanted them to wear the proper equipment: safety glasses, hard hats, steel-toed shoes, and gloves. We spent a lot of time doing that.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlthough OSHA and FEMA provided the initial orientation, the bulk of the work quickly shifted toward the private sector. \u201cVery soon thereafter, especially starting in December of that year, we started working with some of the major construction companies,\u201d he noted. \u201cThose were the people doing the work, trying to rebuild the area.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESchlumper says the scale of the disaster is what still resonates most.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cYou get in the car and drive for a lot of minutes and even hours, and you\u2019re still in the impacted areas,\u201d he said. \u201cBefore, there were beautiful old houses. After, it was just flattened. I remember going down there and seeing the casino barges that floated across the highway and landed on top of a hotel. Just the sheer devastation\u2026 that\u2019s what I carry with me.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile the hazards were similar to those on any construction site, Katrina underscored the importance of preparation and scale. \u201cI think the exposures were what we normally see on a construction job site,\u201d Schlumper reflected, \u201cbut the sheer devastation of the storm is probably the biggest thing for me.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESchlumper now serves as the director of the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/oshainfo.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESafety, Health, and Environmental Services\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E (SHES) Program at Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/innovate.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEnterprise Innovation Institute\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E and manages the OSHA 21(d) Consultation Program. He also serves as a safety consultant on the consultation program and teaches a variety of safety-related courses, including machine guarding, lockout\/tagout, general industry safety and health, and OSHA recordkeeping.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe OSHA 21(d) Consultation Program of the SHES team provides no-cost and confidential occupational safety and health consultation services to small and medium-sized businesses in Georgia.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf the recovery were to happen today, Schlumper says technology might be greatly beneficial for the response. \u201cDrone technology would be much more widely used nowadays than it was back then, just from the immediate response and recovery efforts,\u201d he suggested.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToday, Schlumper continues to carry forward the lessons of Katrina. His advice to future professionals is grounded in both technical knowledge and compassion.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cMy engineering background has really served me well,\u201d he said. \u201cBut this is definitely a profession where it helps to really care about people. My team is very passionate about keeping workers safe. It\u2019s more than just trying to turn a profit or being regulatory compliant\u2014it\u2019s keeping everybody safe and going home in the same condition that you came to work that day.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThrough the 21(d) program, the Safety, Health, and Environmental Services (SHES) team at Georgia Tech provides consultation services to companies with fewer than 250 people at a single site and 500 people corporate-wide to:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIdentify workplace hazards, reducing injuries and illnesses.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EProvide guidance to comply with OSHA standards.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEstablish new and improve existing safety and health programs within the company.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe consultation is administered by a safety consultant and is confidential and will not be reported to the OSHA inspection staff.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAny entity seeking to engage the services of SHES can contact them via their website: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/oshainfo.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Ehttps:\/\/oshainfo.gatech.edu\/\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWriter: \u003Cstrong\u003EChristopher Weems\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EGTRI Communications\u003Cbr\u003EGeorgia Tech Research Institute\u003Cbr\u003EAtlanta, Georgia\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/gtri.gatech.edu\/newsroom\/gtri.gatech.edu\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI)\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E is the nonprofit, applied research division of the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech).\u202fFounded in 1934 as the Engineering Experiment Station, GTRI has grown to more than 3,000 employees, supporting eight laboratories in over 20 locations around the country and performing more than $919 million of problem-solving research annually for government and industry.\u202fGTRI\u0027s renowned researchers combine science, engineering, economics, policy, and technical expertise to solve complex problems for the U.S. federal government, state, and industry.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAugust 29 marks the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, which remains one of the deadliest and costliest hurricanes in U.S. history.\u0026nbsp;Paul Schlumper, a former research engineer with GTRI, conducted training sessions and helped develop standards to address the occupational and safety hazards that disaster recovery workers and others encountered.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Paul Schlumper, a former research engineer with GTRI, conducted training sessions and helped develop standards to address occupational and safety hazards after Hurricane Katrina."}],"uid":"35875","created_gmt":"2025-08-28 13:28:13","changed_gmt":"2025-08-28 13:31:47","author":"cweems8","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-08-28T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-08-28T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677831":{"id":"677831","type":"image","title":"Paul-Schlumper-conducting-traing-to-Hurricane-Katrina-recovery-workers-inside-a-temporary-tent-in-2005.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EPaul Schlumper (left) conducts training with Hurricane Katrina recovery workers inside a temporary tent in 2005.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1756387707","gmt_created":"2025-08-28 13:28:27","changed":"1756387707","gmt_changed":"2025-08-28 13:28:27","alt":"Paul Schlumper (left) conducts training with Hurricane Katrina recovery workers inside a temporary tent in 2005.","file":{"fid":"261775","name":"Paul-Schlumper-conducting-traing-to-Hurricane-Katrina-recovery-workers-inside-a-temporary-tent-in-2005.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/28\/Paul-Schlumper-conducting-traing-to-Hurricane-Katrina-recovery-workers-inside-a-temporary-tent-in-2005.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/28\/Paul-Schlumper-conducting-traing-to-Hurricane-Katrina-recovery-workers-inside-a-temporary-tent-in-2005.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":40316,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/08\/28\/Paul-Schlumper-conducting-traing-to-Hurricane-Katrina-recovery-workers-inside-a-temporary-tent-in-2005.jpg?itok=sgd2eajC"}},"677832":{"id":"677832","type":"image","title":"Paul_schlumper.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EPaul Schlumper, director of the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/oshainfo.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESafety, Health, and Environmental Services\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E (SHES) Program at Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/innovate.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEnterprise Innovation Institute\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1756387707","gmt_created":"2025-08-28 13:28:27","changed":"1756387707","gmt_changed":"2025-08-28 13:28:27","alt":"Paul Sclumper","file":{"fid":"261776","name":"Paul_schlumper.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/28\/Paul_schlumper.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/28\/Paul_schlumper.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":23051,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/08\/28\/Paul_schlumper.jpg?itok=Zh8oVZo4"}},"677833":{"id":"677833","type":"image","title":"hurricane-katrina-new-orleans-la-september-2-2005-neighboorhoods-remain-flooded-df8974.jpg","body":null,"created":"1756387707","gmt_created":"2025-08-28 13:28:27","changed":"1756387707","gmt_changed":"2025-08-28 13:28:27","alt":"This photo from Sept. 2, 2005 shows the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, with communities flooded.","file":{"fid":"261777","name":"hurricane-katrina-new-orleans-la-september-2-2005-neighboorhoods-remain-flooded-df8974.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/28\/hurricane-katrina-new-orleans-la-september-2-2005-neighboorhoods-remain-flooded-df8974.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/28\/hurricane-katrina-new-orleans-la-september-2-2005-neighboorhoods-remain-flooded-df8974.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":50019,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/08\/28\/hurricane-katrina-new-orleans-la-september-2-2005-neighboorhoods-remain-flooded-df8974.jpg?itok=1GVOO7eG"}}},"media_ids":["677831","677832","677833"],"groups":[{"id":"1276","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI)"}],"categories":[{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"194609","name":"Industry"},{"id":"194612","name":"Workforce Development"}],"keywords":[{"id":"1647","name":"Hurricane Katrina"},{"id":"167060","name":"safety"},{"id":"7554","name":"OSHA"},{"id":"170894","name":"standards"}],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":["christopher.weems@gtri.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"683841":{"#nid":"683841","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Inaugural Cohort of Georgia Tech\u2019s Research Leadership Academy Announced","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe inaugural cohort of \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/research-leadership-academy\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s Research Leadership Academy (RLA)\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, a distinguished group of researchers selected from a highly competitive pool of applicants across campus, has been announced.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese outstanding faculty members were chosen for their\u0026nbsp;exceptional research accomplishments, demonstrated leadership, and ability to drive high-impact, interdisciplinary initiatives. Representing a wide range of academic disciplines, they embody the depth, innovation, and collaborative spirit that define Georgia Tech\u2019s research community.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOver the next year, this inaugural cohort will engage in a dynamic, immersive program designed to cultivate strategic research leadership through mentorship, experiential learning, and cross-campus dialogue. Their work through the RLA will not only strengthen Georgia Tech\u2019s research enterprise but also help shape its trajectory for years to come.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPlease join us in celebrating\u0026nbsp;and congratulating\u0026nbsp;these remarkable scholars as they embark on this exciting journey.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESteve Diggle\u003C\/strong\u003E \u2013 Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience; School of Biological Sciences\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMarta Hatzell \u003C\/strong\u003E\u2013 Institute for Matter and Systems; Renewable Bioproducts Institute; Strategic Energy Institute; George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAda Gavrilovska\u003C\/strong\u003E - Institute for Data Engineering and Science; School of Computer Science\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMargaret Kosal\u003C\/strong\u003E \u2013 Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience; Strategic Energy Institute; Institute for Matter and Systems; Sam Nunn School of International Affairs\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESheng Dai\u003C\/strong\u003E \u2013 Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience; Strategic Energy Institute; School of Civil and Environmental Engineering\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYuguo Tao\u003C\/strong\u003E \u2013 George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering; Nuclear and Radiological Engineering; and Medical Physics\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EChris Wiese\u003C\/strong\u003E \u2013 Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience; Institute for Data Engineering and Science; Institute for People and Technology; School of Psychology\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMathieu Dahan\u003C\/strong\u003E \u2013 Institute for People and Technology, H. Milton Stewart School of Industrial and Systems Engineering\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThackery Brown\u003C\/strong\u003E \u2013 School of Psychology\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECharlotte Alexander\u003C\/strong\u003E \u2013 Tech AI, Scheller College of Business; Law and Ethics\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJeff Young\u003C\/strong\u003E \u2013 Institute for Data Engineering and Science; Partnership for Advanced Computing Environments; Office of Information Technology\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMeltem Alemdar\u003C\/strong\u003E \u2013 Center for Education Integrating Science, Mathematics, and Computing\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EKamran Paynabar\u003C\/strong\u003E \u2013 Georgia Tech Manufacturing Institute; Institute for Data Engineering and Science; Renewable Bioproducts Institute; H. Milton Stewart School of Industrial and Systems Engineering\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJohn A. Christian\u003C\/strong\u003E \u2013 Daniel Guggenheim School of Aerospace Engineering\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFarzaneh Najafi\u003C\/strong\u003E \u2013 Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience; School of Biological Sciences\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDave Flaherty\u003C\/strong\u003E \u2013 Strategic Energy Institute; School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEunhwa Yang\u003C\/strong\u003E - Institute for Matter and Systems; Strategic Energy Institute; School of Building Construction\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJames Tsai\u003C\/strong\u003E \u2013 Strategic Energy Institute; School of Civil and Environmental Engineering\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJennifer Hirsch\u003C\/strong\u003E \u2013 Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems; Center for Sustainable Communities Research and Education; Strategic Energy Institute\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EInaugural Cohort of Georgia Tech\u2019s Research Leadership Academy\u0026nbsp;Announced\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Inaugural Cohort of Georgia Tech\u2019s Research Leadership Academy Announced"}],"uid":"27561","created_gmt":"2025-08-15 14:52:25","changed_gmt":"2025-08-22 18:36:53","author":"Angela Ayers","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-08-15T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-08-15T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677702":{"id":"677702","type":"image","title":"RLAkickoffcohort2025.jpg","body":null,"created":"1755269712","gmt_created":"2025-08-15 14:55:12","changed":"1755269712","gmt_changed":"2025-08-15 14:55:12","alt":"Inaugural cohort of Georgia Tech\u0027s Research Leadership Academy","file":{"fid":"261635","name":"RLAkickoffcohort2025.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/15\/RLAkickoffcohort2025_0.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/15\/RLAkickoffcohort2025_0.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1123659,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/08\/15\/RLAkickoffcohort2025_0.jpg?itok=rZVbuvBs"}}},"media_ids":["677702"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/research-leadership-academy","title":"Research Leadership Academy"}],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"},{"id":"186858","name":"go-sei"},{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"},{"id":"172970","name":"go-neuro"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"193652","name":"Matter and Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"684037":{"#nid":"684037","#data":{"type":"news","title":"New NIH-Funded timsTOF HT Mass Spectrometer Boosts Proteomics Power in Georgia Tech IBB Core Facilities","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/bio\/research\/core-facilities\/systems-mass-spectrometry-core\u0022\u003ESystems Mass Spectrometry Core (SyMS-C)\u003C\/a\u003E at the Georgia Institute of Technology proudly announces the acquisition and installation of a cutting-edge Bruker timsTOF HT mass spectrometer integrated with a nanoElute2 liquid chromatography system. This transformative addition, funded by a prestigious S10 Shared Instrumentation Grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and led by Matthew Torres, associate professor in the School of Biological Sciences, reinforces Georgia Tech\u2019s leadership in pioneering proteomics research.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe timsTOF HT is a next-generation mass spectrometer that combines trapped ion mobility spectrometry (TIMS) with high-resolution quadrupole time-of-flight (qTOF) mass analysis to dramatically improve sensitivity, specificity, and throughput. Unlike traditional mass spectrometers, it uses dual TIMS funnels to separate ions by size-to-charge (rather than only mass-to-charge), enabling an added dimension of separation for complex biological samples. The system employs a method called PASEF (Parallel Accumulation\u2013Serial Fragmentation), which synchronizes ion separation, isolation, and fragmentation to dramatically boost speed and depth of proteome coverage. TIMS also distinguishes between isobaric species\u2014such as phosphopeptide positional isomers or structural isomers\u2014that are indistinguishable by standard mass spectrometry alone. Because it stores and organizes ions rather than filtering them destructively, the timsTOF HT is especially well suited for sensitive and high-throughput omics applications, including plasma and tissue proteomics. As a result, it represents a transformative platform for biological discovery across a wide range of research areas.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFunded by the NIH S10 grant, this acquisition empowers the SyMS-C to support a wide range of research initiatives across Georgia Tech and its collaborative partners. The timsTOF HT\u2019s advanced capabilities, including dia-PASEF\u00ae and prm-PASEF\u00ae acquisition modes, will accelerate discoveries in biomarker identification, single-cell proteomics, and multiomics applications, addressing critical challenges in understanding disease mechanisms and developing novel diagnostics and therapies.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe are thrilled to integrate the Bruker timsTOF HT and nanoElute2 into our Systems Mass Spectrometry Core,\u201d said Rakesh Singh, director of the proteomics services at SyMS-C. \u201cThis advanced platform will enable our researchers to push the boundaries of proteomics, providing deeper insights into cellular mechanisms and supporting transformative biomedical research. We are deeply grateful to the NIH for their support through the S10 grant, which makes this cutting-edge technology accessible to our scientific community.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe installation of the timsTOF HT and nanoElute2 systems enhances the ability of SyMS-C to serve as a hub for interdisciplinary research, offering access to faculty, students, and external collaborators, including those within the Georgia Research Alliance and regional academic and clinical institutions. The core facility will provide technical expertise, consultation, and data analysis support to ensure researchers can fully leverage the system\u2019s capabilities. The SyMS-C anticipates that the new instrumentation will drive high-impact research, contributing to breakthroughs in personalized medicine, cancer research, and neurodegenerative disease studies. For more information about the Systems Mass Spectrometry Core or to inquire about access to the Bruker timsTOF HT and nanoElute2 systems, please contact \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto: rsingh475@gatech.edu\u0022\u003ERakesh Singh\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThis transformative addition is funded by a prestigious S10 Shared Instrumentation Grant from the National Institutes of Health.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"This transformative addition is funded by a prestigious S10 Shared Instrumentation Grant from the National Institutes of Health."}],"uid":"34760","created_gmt":"2025-08-21 14:05:19","changed_gmt":"2025-08-22 15:55:12","author":"Laurie Haigh","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-08-21T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-08-21T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677772":{"id":"677772","type":"image","title":"timsTOF HT","body":null,"created":"1755873362","gmt_created":"2025-08-22 14:36:02","changed":"1755877752","gmt_changed":"2025-08-22 15:49:12","alt":"Researchers Rakesh Singh (L) and Ludyanna Lebon with the timsTOF HT and nanoElute2 systems ","file":{"fid":"261709","name":"timsTOF.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/22\/timsTOF.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/22\/timsTOF.png","mime":"image\/png","size":918145,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/08\/22\/timsTOF.png?itok=fUlN0Pd4"}}},"media_ids":["677772"],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto: rsingh475@gatech.edu\u0022\u003ERakesh Singh\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ESenior Research Scientist\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"684009":{"#nid":"684009","#data":{"type":"news","title":"GTRI Develops Climate, Moisture Control Technologies to Optimize Poultry House Operations","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EIn Georgia, where chickens are the biggest agricultural product with an annual state economic impact of over \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nifa.usda.gov\/about-nifa\/blogs\/georgia-extension-supporting-county-governments-poultry-industry\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$28 billion\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, maintaining the right temperature and moisture levels in a poultry house is crucial for bird health and efficiency. However, this can be challenging due to changing weather, bird density and size, and high energy costs.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) is addressing these challenges with two technologies: the Broiler House Integrated Guided-Motion Excreta Saturation System (BHIG-MESS) and a protective chicken enclosure known as \u201cchicken bubble.\u201d BHIG-MESS addresses moisture concerns by removing poultry waste from the house regularly and automatically, which helps reduce ventilation needs and energy consumption. \u201cChicken bubble\u201d uses an inflatable barrier to reduce the volume of air that needs conditioning, lowering energy expenses that are among the highest costs for farmers.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cOne of the biggest challenges for poultry houses and farmers is maintaining the internal environment of the house,\u201d said GTRI Principal Research Scientist Alex Samoylov.\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u201cWhile issues related to feed and water have been more or less resolved, creating an optimal environment within the house is still very much an art rather than an exact science.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPoultry house energy costs are primarily driven by heating fuel and electricity for essential needs like keeping chickens warm, providing adequate lighting and powering ventilation systems.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cHow well farmers manage their energy costs directly impacts the health and productivity of the birds \u2013 and by extension, their profitability,\u201d Samoylov said.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBHIG-MESS consists of a specially designed tiled floor where manure falls through into a tray beneath, allowing for daily removal. In traditional houses, wood shavings absorb manure and it remains in place for the flock\u0027s entire stay. By clearing out the manure every day, BHIG-MESS significantly reduces moisture levels inside the house and, consequently, the need for intensive ventilation.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe \u201cchicken bubble\u201d system\u2019s inflatable technology reduces the amount of air that needs to be ventilated and conditioned. By displacing a significant portion of air inside the house, farmers could cut these air requirements by at least half, Samoylov said.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGTRI has conducted trials of BHIG-MESS at the University of Georgia\u2019s (UGA) Poultry Experimental Center. During the trials, researchers replaced half of the floor with GTRI\u2019s system and the other half remained traditional wood shavings. The birds were raised for seven weeks and GTRI collected data on manure accumulation, bird health and weight distribution.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThey observed that the birds on GTRI\u2019s flooring system had significantly fewer instances of footpad dermatitis, a condition in chickens where the skin on the bottom of their feet becomes inflamed and irritated, often caused by wet and dirty litter. The system also demonstrated that it did not cause more chicken deaths compared to traditional methods. Chickens on the new system also had similar weight patterns and, in some cases, were healthier than those raised on the traditional wood shavings.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGTRI plans to test \u201cchicken bubble\u201d in 2026, starting in controlled environments before moving to larger poultry houses. This project has been supported by GTRI\u2019s Agricultural Technology Research Program (ATRP).Once more testing has been completed, GTRI plans to partner with commercial entities that would manufacture and distribute these technologies. Samoylov said his team envisions a partnership where these companies would handle production and installation while GTRI continues focusing on further research and technical refinement.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cOur focus is on enhancing sustainability and profitability for the poultry industry,\u201d he said. \u201cBy creating innovative solutions, we aim to secure food supply and help growers thrive.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWriter: \u003Cstrong\u003EAnna Akins\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EPhotos: \u003Cstrong\u003ESean McNeil\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EAdditional Photo Credit: \u003Cstrong\u003EAlex Samoylov\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EGTRI Communications\u003Cbr\u003EGeorgia Tech Research Institute\u003Cbr\u003EAtlanta, Georgia\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor more information, please contact \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:gtri.media@gtri.gatech.edu\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Egtri.media@gtri.gatech.edu\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo learn more about GTRI, visit: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/gtri.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGeorgia Tech Research Institute | GTRI\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGTRI is developing two technologies to address climate and moisture control challenges in poultry houses - innovations that could lead to healthier flocks and reduce costs for farmers.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"GTRI is developing two technologies to address climate and moisture control challenges in poultry houses - innovations that could lead to healthier flocks and reduce costs for farmers. "}],"uid":"35874","created_gmt":"2025-08-20 17:51:15","changed_gmt":"2025-08-21 19:20:19","author":"Anna Akins","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-08-20T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-08-20T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677756":{"id":"677756","type":"image","title":"PXL_20250220_170045035.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EIn Georgia, chickens make up the biggest agricultural product with a whopping annual state economic impact of over $28 billion. However, it can be extremely challenging - and costly - for poultry farmers to maintain optimal temperature and moisture levels inside poultry houses. By addressing this challenge, GTRI\u0027s two technologies could result in healthier birds and save farmers money.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1755712306","gmt_created":"2025-08-20 17:51:46","changed":"1755712306","gmt_changed":"2025-08-20 17:51:46","alt":"A photo of a chicken. ","file":{"fid":"261690","name":"PXL_20250220_170045035.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/20\/PXL_20250220_170045035.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/20\/PXL_20250220_170045035.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1583847,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/08\/20\/PXL_20250220_170045035.jpg?itok=Moy9DDlz"}},"677757":{"id":"677757","type":"image","title":"PXL_20250220_170935576.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EDuring recent trials at UGA, GTRI observed that birds on GTRI\u0027s BHIG-MESS flooring system (on left) had fewer instances of footpad dermatitis along with similar weight patterns and better overall health in some cases than those on raised traditional wood shavings (Photo Credit: Alex Samoylov).\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1755712306","gmt_created":"2025-08-20 17:51:46","changed":"1755712306","gmt_changed":"2025-08-20 17:51:46","alt":"A photo of chickens in a poultry house. ","file":{"fid":"261691","name":"PXL_20250220_170935576.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/20\/PXL_20250220_170935576.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/20\/PXL_20250220_170935576.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":2606006,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/08\/20\/PXL_20250220_170935576.jpg?itok=ZpQS4Gu2"}},"677755":{"id":"677755","type":"image","title":"2025_0515_image_Future-Farm_05.JPG","body":"\u003Cp\u003EGTRI Principal Research Scientist and project lead Alex Samoylov stands next to a prototype he has developed of GTRI\u0027s \u0022chicken bubble\u0022 technology. \u0022Chicken bubble\u0022 reduces the volume of air in poultry houses that needs conditioning, lowering energy expenses that are among the highest costs for farmers. GTRI plans to test this technology out in the field sometime next year (Photo Credit: Sean McNeil, GTRI).\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1755712306","gmt_created":"2025-08-20 17:51:46","changed":"1755712306","gmt_changed":"2025-08-20 17:51:46","alt":"A photo of GTRI\u0027s \u0022chicken bubble\u0022 technology ","file":{"fid":"261689","name":"2025_0515_image_Future-Farm_05.JPG","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/20\/2025_0515_image_Future-Farm_05.JPG","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/20\/2025_0515_image_Future-Farm_05.JPG","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":17452917,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/08\/20\/2025_0515_image_Future-Farm_05.JPG?itok=0yzITy1Y"}},"677754":{"id":"677754","type":"image","title":"2025_0707_image_ATRP_future-farm_01.JPG","body":"\u003Cp\u003EGTRI Principal Research Scientist and project lead Alex Samoylov (left) and GTRI Research Engineer Parth Mandrekar (right) have developed a BHIG-MESS prototype and are seen working on it here (Photo Credit: Sean McNeil, GTRI). BHIG-MESS addresses moisture concerns in poultry houses by removing waste regularly and automatically, which helps reduce ventilation needs and energy consumption.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1755712306","gmt_created":"2025-08-20 17:51:46","changed":"1755712306","gmt_changed":"2025-08-20 17:51:46","alt":"A photo of two GTRI researchers working on the BHIG-MESS prototype. ","file":{"fid":"261688","name":"2025_0707_image_ATRP_future-farm_01.JPG","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/20\/2025_0707_image_ATRP_future-farm_01.JPG","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/20\/2025_0707_image_ATRP_future-farm_01.JPG","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":17261930,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/08\/20\/2025_0707_image_ATRP_future-farm_01.JPG?itok=EsoxuKQc"}}},"media_ids":["677756","677757","677755","677754"],"groups":[{"id":"1276","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"131","name":"Economic Development and Policy"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"194611","name":"State Impact"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"44641","name":"institute communications"},{"id":"415","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute"},{"id":"23681","name":"Food Processing Technology"},{"id":"125571","name":"poultry industry"},{"id":"11426","name":"Georgia Economy"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"193653","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAuthor: Anna Akins \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:anna.akins@gtri.gatech.edu\u0022\u003Eanna.akins@gtri.gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGTRI media contact info: \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:gtri.media@gtri.gatech.edu\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Egtri.media@gtri.gatech.edu\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["anna.akins@gtri.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"683699":{"#nid":"683699","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Cooking Up Confidence: Aware Home Lab and Georgia Tech EXCEL Program Partner to Teach Life Skills","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA new partnership between Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/awarehome.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EAware Home Research Initiative\u003C\/a\u003E and the Georgia Tech \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/excel.gatech.edu\/home\u0022\u003EEXCEL program\u003C\/a\u003E is helping students with intellectual and developmental disabilities gain essential life skills \u2014 starting in the kitchen.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe EXCEL program \u2014 short for expanding career, education, and leadership opportunities\u2014is a four-year college experience designed for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It leads to two certificates and focuses on academic enrichment, social growth, career development, and independent living.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe accept students from across the country, not just Georgia,\u201d said Sherri Burrell, EXCEL\u2019s mentorship coordinator. \u201cOur goal is to prepare our students for life after college, and that includes learning how to live independently.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBurrell joined the EXCEL team in August 2024 and quickly identified a gap in the program: students needed a hands-on space to learn about nutrition, cooking, and healthy living \u2014 skills that could not be taught effectively in a traditional classroom. That\u2019s when she connected with Brian Jones, director of research at Georgia Tech\u2019s Aware Home lab.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Aware Home, a three-story, 5,040-square-foot living laboratory, is designed to simulate a real home environment where Georgia Tech researchers, faculty, and students can develop and test innovative technologies. With its fully equipped kitchen and smart home capabilities, it offers an ideal setting for EXCEL students \u2014 many of whom are tactile learners \u2014 to engage in real-world, hands-on learning.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe partnership began with current EXCEL students and their Georgia Tech mentors \u2014 traditional students who support EXCEL participants in areas like social development, wellness, and life transitions. Together, mentors and mentees learned to prepare simple, nutritious meals. \u201cIt wasn\u2019t just beneficial for our EXCEL students,\u201d Burrell noted. \u201cMany of the mentors were also new to cooking. They learned new skills and knowledge right alongside their mentees.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe collaboration expanded into the EXCEL Summer Academy, a two-week program for high school juniors and seniors interested in applying to EXCEL. During the summer sessions, prospective students visited the Aware Home to explore topics like nutrition, dining, and making healthy food choices. \u201cEven though incoming students are on a meal plan and don\u2019t have kitchens, it\u2019s still important they understand how to make smart decisions about what they eat,\u201d Burrell said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA Legacy of Research Innovation\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EBeyond this Excel program educational role, the Aware Home, the first residential laboratory of its type, has a rich legacy of shaping the future of smart home technology. One of its most influential contributors is \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.cs.washington.edu\/people\/faculty\/shwetak-patel\/\u0022\u003EShwetak Patel\u003C\/a\u003E, a Georgia Tech alumnus and now a professor at the University of Washington\u2019s Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science \u0026amp; Engineering. Patel\u2019s time in the Aware Home as a Ph.D. student profoundly influenced his career and the broader field of ubiquitous computing. He described how the Aware Home lab\u2019s impact on his research career fell into three distinct \u201cbuckets\u201d:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1. Career Transformation\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPatel credits the Aware Home with fundamentally reshaping his career path. His early exposure to real-world research problems in a home-like setting helped him discover his passion for applied computer science and human-centered innovation. \u201cIt totally informed the way I do research now,\u201d he said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E2. Living Laboratory Innovation\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Aware Home\u2019s immersive environment allowed Patel to explore practical challenges in home sensing and automation. His doctoral work, Infrastructure Mediated Sensing, focused on detecting water and electricity usage, human presence, and environmental context\u2014technologies that laid the foundation for the smart home industry. This research led to the creation of startups like Zensi and Phyn, and influenced commercial products such as Belkin\u2019s Conserve line, smart meters, and even [Google] Nest and Sense devices. Patel is also a distinguished engineer and health technologies leader at Google who guided \u0026nbsp;many of Google\u2019s smart home technologies. \u201cYou can draw a direct line from our early work in the Aware Home to the smart home technologies we see today,\u201d Patel explained.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E3. Defining Innovation\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPatel\u2019s experience in the Aware Home helped him refine his understanding of innovation\u2014not just as a technical achievement, but as a meaningful solution to everyday problems. \u201cThe Aware Home really informed my view on how to do innovation,\u201d he said. \u201cIt\u2019s about solving real-world problems in ways that matter to people.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHelping People Today and in the Future\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs the EXCEL program and Aware Home Lab continue to collaborate, they\u2019re not only teaching students how to cook \u2014 they\u2019re also contributing to a broader legacy of innovation. With future research opportunities on the horizon, this new partnership and other ongoing research projects across Georgia Tech, such as the Aware Home collaboration with the AI Caring Institute, are poised to further explore how smart environments can support independent living and improve the quality of life.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you are a researcher, company, or start-up interested in using the Aware Home lab for research, testing, or evaluating in-home technologies, contact Brian Jones, lab director of the Aware Home, at \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brian.jones@gatech.edu\u0022\u003Ebrian.jones@gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA new partnership between Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/awarehome.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EAware Home Research Initiative\u003C\/a\u003E and the Georgia Tech \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/excel.gatech.edu\/home\u0022\u003EEXCEL program\u003C\/a\u003E is helping students with intellectual and developmental disabilities gain essential life skills \u2014 starting in the kitchen.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"A new partnership between Georgia Tech\u2019s Aware Home Research Initiative and the Georgia Tech EXCEL program is helping students with intellectual and developmental disabilities gain essential life skills \u2014 starting in the kitchen."}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2025-08-11 14:23:19","changed_gmt":"2025-08-21 17:00:43","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-08-11T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-08-11T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677638":{"id":"677638","type":"image","title":"Aware Home cooking 1","body":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech Excel program students and mentors cooking in the Aware Home.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1754921902","gmt_created":"2025-08-11 14:18:22","changed":"1754921984","gmt_changed":"2025-08-11 14:19:44","alt":"Aware Home cooking","file":{"fid":"261556","name":"DSC06983-Large-main-ok-pizza.jpeg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/11\/DSC06983-Large-main-ok-pizza.jpeg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/11\/DSC06983-Large-main-ok-pizza.jpeg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":563809,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/08\/11\/DSC06983-Large-main-ok-pizza.jpeg?itok=iHbuGpvl"}},"677639":{"id":"677639","type":"image","title":"Sherri Burrell - EXCEL\u2019s mentorship coordinator","body":"\u003Cp\u003ESherri Burrell, EXCEL\u2019s mentorship coordinator, with a group of Excel students and mentors in the Aware Home where they practice their cooking skills.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1754922012","gmt_created":"2025-08-11 14:20:12","changed":"1754922106","gmt_changed":"2025-08-11 14:21:46","alt":"Sherri Burrell, EXCEL\u2019s mentorship coordinator","file":{"fid":"261557","name":"IMG_0268-Large-copy-2nd.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/11\/IMG_0268-Large-copy-2nd.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/11\/IMG_0268-Large-copy-2nd.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":619779,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/08\/11\/IMG_0268-Large-copy-2nd.jpg?itok=6MTxQ0vK"}}},"media_ids":["677638","677639"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWalter Rich, Research Communications\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["walter.rich@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"683860":{"#nid":"683860","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Summer Interns Building Community Capacity","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EEvery summer for the last eight years, Georgia Tech students, from engineering and computer science to sustainable energy and environmental management, have lent their talents and creative energy to metro Atlanta sustainability-oriented organizations to increase their capacity in the community.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scre.research.gatech.edu\/sustainable-communities-summer-internship-program\u0022\u003EThe\u0026nbsp; Sustainable Communities Summer Internship Program\u003C\/a\u003E in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scre.research.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ECenter for Sustainable Communities Research and Education (SCoRE)\u003C\/a\u003E taps students from across the Institute, who gain real-world experience in both sustainability and community engagement, while participating partners scale their operations and deepen their relationship with Georgia Tech.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIt is a nontraditional internship, but it is so effective,\u201d says Kristina Chatfield, director of business administration for the Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems (BBISS), who manages the operational components of the program.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EImpact on Atlanta\u2019s Sustainability Community\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow in its eighth summer, the program has placed more than 200 students with over 60 Atlanta community organizations. Many return year after year, like \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.wundergrubs.com\/\u0022\u003EWunderGrubs\u003C\/a\u003E, an Atlanta-based insect farm that wants to bring a sustainable, nutritious form of protein to communities.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cI can\u2019t overstate the value that Georgia Tech students bring to our company every summer through the SCoRE internship program,\u201d says CEO and co-founder Akissi Stokes-Nelson, explaining that WunderGrubs\u2019 mission is rooted in food equity and social impact. \u201cWe\u2019re constantly innovating to support smallholder farmers, develop educational programs, and expand our reach both locally and globally. The SCoRE interns have been instrumental in helping us realize this vision.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStokes-Nelson says they add immediate capacity to WunderGrubs\u2019 small team, bringing fresh perspectives and technical expertise \u2014 whether it\u2019s developing new curricula for STEAM summer camps, introducing technology like Internet of Things (IoT) sensors and Arduino controllers, or helping the company build and scale its modular \u201cgrub shed\u201d farming systems. She credits them with enabling her to reframe her business, pilot new programs, and even expand internationally, citing a recent partnership in Rwanda.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWhat sets the Georgia Tech interns apart is their maturity, technical skill, and genuine passion for social impact. They\u2019re not just here to learn \u2014 they\u2019re here to contribute, innovate, and help us grow,\u201d she says.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe program is unique in its focus on both student development and organizational impact, particularly for underrepresented and first-generation students,\u201d says Ruthie Yow, associate director of SCoRE, who leads partner engagement and student learning.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech covers all costs, including stipends for the full 12 weeks. Students take part in a seminar one evening a week to learn about grassroots sustainability innovation. They can also earn an internship course credit.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EConnecting With Students in STEM\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntern Ridoine Idrissou, a computer science undergraduate at Tech, supported WunderGrubs\u2019 \u201cTech Avengers\u201d STEM summer camp. \u201cWe taught kids about cybersecurity, IoT, how to be safe online, and they learned about mealworms. They got rid of almost one ton of trash,\u201d recalls Idrissou, who also developed IoT kits for the company\u2019s farm sheds. \u201cIt\u2019s not all about coding,\u201d adds the Togo, West Africa, native. \u201cIt\u2019s about connecting to the environment. It\u2019s given me a whole different type of experience than I normally have as a computer science major.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIdrissou, who has spent his last three summers interning, credits the program with giving him a chance when nobody else would. \u201cMy internship experience makes me appreciate the field I\u2019m in, and it gives me a good idea of how to be mindful, when building software or other products, of the well-being of other people.\u201d He plans to pursue a career in cybersecurity and system administration after he graduates next spring.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis positive internship experience isn\u2019t the only one. Another organization benefiting from Georgia Tech\u2019s talented students is the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.lifecyclebuildingcenter.org\/\u0022\u003ELifecycle Building Center (LBC)\u003C\/a\u003E in Atlanta.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShannon Goodman, a Georgia Tech architecture program alumna, serves as executive director of the LBC. She considers her interns foundational to her nonprofit, which reduces waste in the built environment by salvaging materials like lumber, cabinets, flooring, and appliances, and making them available to the community, nonprofits, and for reuse in new projects. The organization runs a 70,000 square-foot warehouse and provides free materials and services to nonprofits across Atlanta.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cOur interns have been the connective tissue that helps all the different resource-constrained CEOs and community-based organizations build strong, trusted relationships with each other and lay the groundwork for our training program,\u201d Goodman says.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAssessing the Lifecycle of Salvaged Building Materials\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMorgan Hale interned at LBC while completing her graduate degree in sustainable energy and environmental management. \u201cThis internship program bridges sustainability with all the academic pathways at Georgia Tech. It does a great job of engaging students and educating them on ways to take what they\u0027re learning from school and map that into a career in sustainability,\u201d says Hale, whose capstone project focused on the lifecycle assessment of salvaged building materials. \u201cThis internship perfectly aligned with my academic and career interests in sustainability and policy,\u201d she adds. \u201cAnd the extra workshops and networking opportunities are invaluable.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor Goodman, education remains a key part of her team\u2019s role. \u201cOur job at the end of the day is helping people understand all the different types of opportunities that get lost when we just throw materials away. I don\u0027t know how we would do it without our interns. Through her capstone project, Morgan developed tools and procedures for calculating the embodied carbon and GHG emissions of the materials we salvage to create Environmental Product Declarations, or EPDs, for reclaimed materials, which don\u2019t currently exist in the U.S. EPDs allow us to prove exactly how much better salvaged materials perform compared to new products, and will enable the material reuse industry to scale in the U.S. at a rate never seen before.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELBC\u2019s connection to Georgia Tech doesn\u2019t stop with the internship program, however. \u201cWe have had countless professors from different departments of Georgia Tech bring their students here to learn about what we do, engage with us, and get materials from us,\u201d says Goodman, noting that back in 2022, Georgia Tech was instrumental in helping her assemble community organizations like the West Atlanta Watershed Alliance and many others to form the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.lifecyclebuildingcenter.org\/rebuildatl\u0022\u003EReBuildATL Coalition\u003C\/a\u003E. Today, the coalition includes more than 40 nonprofits, academic institutions, industry partners, and local government agencies that empower Westside Atlanta neighborhoods.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELearn More\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Sustainable Communities Summer Internship Program is a partnership between SCoRE and the Office of Community-Based Learning. It is co-sponsored by the Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems, the Strategic Energy Institute, the Renewable Bioproducts Institute, the Office of Commercialization, and the Sustainability Next initiative.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo learn more about the program, including how to contribute financially to the program or to become a participating partner, visit \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scre.research.gatech.edu\/sustainable-communities-summer-internship-program.\u0022\u003Ehttps:\/\/scre.research.gatech.edu\/sustainable-communities-summer-internship-program.\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EBy Anne Wainscott-Sargent\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scre.research.gatech.edu\/sustainable-communities-summer-internship-program\u0022\u003EThe\u0026nbsp; Sustainable Communities Summer Internship Program\u003C\/a\u003E in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scre.research.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ECenter for Sustainable Communities Research and Education (SCoRE)\u003C\/a\u003E taps students from across the Institute, who gain real-world experience in both sustainability and community engagement, while participating partners scale their operations and deepen their relationship with Georgia Tech.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIt is a nontraditional internship, but it is so effective,\u201d says Kristina Chatfield, director of business administration for the Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems (BBISS), who manages the operational components of the program.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech interns fuel high-impact sustainability ventures throughout Atlanta, from insect farms to salvaged building materials."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2025-08-15 17:56:25","changed_gmt":"2025-08-15 17:59:29","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-08-15T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-08-15T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677706":{"id":"677706","type":"image","title":"LBC_cropped.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EGeorgia Tech intern Morgan Hale and Lifecyle Building Center Executive Director Shannon Goodman\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1755280616","gmt_created":"2025-08-15 17:56:56","changed":"1755280616","gmt_changed":"2025-08-15 17:56:56","alt":"Georgia Tech intern Morgan Hale and Lifecyle Building Center Executive Director Shannon Goodman stand in a warehouse.","file":{"fid":"261639","name":"LBC_cropped.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/15\/LBC_cropped.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/15\/LBC_cropped.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1338721,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/08\/15\/LBC_cropped.jpg?itok=VYqsG6Nx"}},"677707":{"id":"677707","type":"image","title":"WunderGrubs_Interns_cropped.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ELeft to right: Nathanael Sancinito, Akissi Stokes-Nelson, and Ridoine Idrissou at the SCoRE internship closing session.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1755280714","gmt_created":"2025-08-15 17:58:34","changed":"1755280714","gmt_changed":"2025-08-15 17:58:34","alt":"Left to right: Nathanael Sancinito, Akissi Stokes-Nelson, and Ridoine Idrissou at the SCoRE internship closing session.","file":{"fid":"261640","name":"WunderGrubs_Interns_cropped.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/15\/WunderGrubs_Interns_cropped.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/15\/WunderGrubs_Interns_cropped.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1092819,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/08\/15\/WunderGrubs_Interns_cropped.jpg?itok=h9ogULaq"}}},"media_ids":["677706","677707"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[{"id":"42901","name":"Community"},{"id":"8862","name":"Student Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Research Program Communications Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"683452":{"#nid":"683452","#data":{"type":"news","title":"The Doctor Is In","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EShao-Yun Hsu kept seeing the same name on research study after research study: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/me.gatech.edu\/faculty\/dixon\u0022\u003EBrandon Dixon\u003C\/a\u003E, an engineer at Georgia Tech.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHsu, a microsurgeon in Taiwan, was trying to figure out how to help her patients with lymphedema \u2014 an uncomfortable and life-limiting swelling in limbs that results from lymph nodes failing to drain fluid from an arm or leg.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHsu had what she thought was a basic question: exactly how much fluid each small lymphatic vessel could drain. And as she dug into the clinical research, she saw Dixon\u2019s name over and over.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESpoiler alert: There\u2019s no good answer to Hsu\u2019s question. At least not yet. But the search has brought her to Atlanta to pursue a \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/bme.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003Ebiomedical engineering\u003C\/a\u003E Ph.D. in Dixon\u2019s lab.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETogether, they\u2019re \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/reporter.nih.gov\/project-details\/11106116\u0022\u003Eembarking on a new project with support from the National Institutes of Health\u003C\/a\u003E (NIH) that could one day help Hsu\u2019s patients by making a lymph node transplant a viable option for many more people who suffer from lymphedema.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/coe.gatech.edu\/news\/2025\/07\/doctor-is-in\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERead the full story on the College of Engineering website.\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EMicrosurgeon Shao-Yun Hsu takes treating her patients all the way to Georgia Tech, where she\u2019s getting a Ph.D. and developing biomaterials to restore function \u2014 and quality of life \u2014 for people with lymphedema.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Microsurgeon Shao-Yun Hsu takes treating her patients all the way to Georgia Tech, where she\u2019s getting a Ph.D. and developing biomaterials to restore function \u2014 and quality of life \u2014 for people with lymphedema."}],"uid":"27446","created_gmt":"2025-07-31 20:29:35","changed_gmt":"2025-08-12 19:40:46","author":"Joshua Stewart","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-07-31T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-07-31T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677550":{"id":"677550","type":"image","title":"Brandon-Dixon-Shao-Yun-Hsu-5335-t.jpg","body":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBrandon Dixon, left, and Shao-Yun Hsu are working to improve lymph node transplant surgery, a delicate procedure Hsu spent years training to perform as a microsurgeon in Taiwan. (Photo: Candler Hobbs)\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","created":"1753993790","gmt_created":"2025-07-31 20:29:50","changed":"1753993790","gmt_changed":"2025-07-31 20:29:50","alt":"Brandon Dixon and Shao-Yun Hsu pose in their lab, where they\u0027re working on a project to improve lymph node transplant surgery.","file":{"fid":"261461","name":"Brandon-Dixon-Shao-Yun-Hsu-5335-t.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/31\/Brandon-Dixon-Shao-Yun-Hsu-5335-t.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/31\/Brandon-Dixon-Shao-Yun-Hsu-5335-t.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":567036,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/07\/31\/Brandon-Dixon-Shao-Yun-Hsu-5335-t.jpg?itok=ebKDBnrZ"}}},"media_ids":["677550"],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"73601","name":"lymphedema"},{"id":"23201","name":"brandon dixon"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"},{"id":"187582","name":"go-ibb"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71891","name":"Health and Medicine"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:jstewart@gatech.edu\u0022\u003EJoshua Stewart\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ECollege of Engineering\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["jstewart@gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"683686":{"#nid":"683686","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Research Combining Humans, Robots, and Unicycles Receives NSF Award","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EResearch into tailored assistive and rehabilitative devices has seen recent advancements but the goal remains out of reach due to the sparsity of data on how humans learn complex balance tasks. To address this gap, a collaborating team of interdisciplinary faculty from Florida State University and Georgia Tech have been awarded ~$798,000 by the NSF to launch a study to better understand human motor learning as well as gain greater understanding into human robot interaction dynamics during the learning process.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;Led by PI:\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/rthmlab.wixsite.com\/taylorgambon\u0022\u003ETaylor Higgins\u003C\/a\u003E, Assistant Professor, FAMU-FSU Department of Mechanical Engineering, partnering with Co-PIs\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.shreyaskousik.com\/\u0022\u003EShreyas Kousik\u003C\/a\u003E, Assistant Professor, Georgia Tech, George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, and\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/annescollege.fsu.edu\/faculty-staff\/dr-brady-decouto\u0022\u003EBrady DeCouto,\u003C\/a\u003E Assistant Professor, FSU\u0026nbsp;Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences, the research will use the acquisition of unicycle riding skill by participants to gain a better grasp on human motor learning in tasks requiring balance and complex movement in space. Although it might sound a bit odd, the fact that most people don\u2019t know how to ride a unicycle, and the fact that it requires balance, mean that the data will cover the learning process from novice to skilled across the participant pool.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUsing data acquired from human participants, the team will develop a \u201crobotics assistive unicycle\u201d that will be used in the training of the next pool of novice unicycle riders. \u0026nbsp;This is to gauge if, and how rapidly, human motor learning outcomes improve with the assistive unicycle. The participants that engage with the robotic unicycle will also give valuable insight into developing effective human-robot collaboration strategies.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe fact that deciding to get on a unicycle requires a bit of bravery might not be great for the participants, but it\u2019s great for the research team. The project will also allow exploration into the interconnection between anxiety and human motor learning to discover possible alleviation strategies, thus increasing the likelihood of positive outcomes for future patients and consumers of these devices.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAuthor\u003Cbr\u003E-Christa M. Ernst\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis Article Refers to NSF Award # 2449160\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"Trio from Florida State University and Georgia Tech aim to develop better assistive and rehabilitative technologies and strategies using novel approach."}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA collaborating team of interdisciplinary faculty from Florida State University and Georgia Tech have been awarded ~$798,000 by the NSF to launch a study to better understand human motor learning as well as gain greater understanding into human robot interaction dynamics during the learning process.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Novel research to improve tailored assistive and rehabilitative devices wins NSF Grant"}],"uid":"27863","created_gmt":"2025-08-08 19:35:55","changed_gmt":"2025-08-12 14:15:37","author":"Christa Ernst","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-08-08T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-08-08T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677632":{"id":"677632","type":"image","title":"Kousik-NSF-Award-News-Graphic.png","body":null,"created":"1754681767","gmt_created":"2025-08-08 19:36:07","changed":"1754681767","gmt_changed":"2025-08-08 19:36:07","alt":"Graphic of person using an assistive device thinking about how a robot could hep learn riding a unicycle","file":{"fid":"261548","name":"Kousik-NSF-Award-News-Graphic.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/08\/Kousik-NSF-Award-News-Graphic.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/08\/Kousik-NSF-Award-News-Graphic.png","mime":"image\/png","size":267611,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/08\/08\/Kousik-NSF-Award-News-Graphic.png?itok=mwCCwIQv"}}},"media_ids":["677632"],"groups":[{"id":"545781","name":"Institute for Data Engineering and Science"},{"id":"142761","name":"IRIM"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[{"id":"194606","name":"Artificial Intelligence"},{"id":"138","name":"Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics"},{"id":"145","name":"Engineering"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"152","name":"Robotics"}],"keywords":[{"id":"78841","name":"human-robot interaction"},{"id":"5525","name":"assistive technologies"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"187582","name":"go-ibb"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"193655","name":"Artificial Intelligence at Georgia Tech"},{"id":"39441","name":"Bioengineering and Bioscience"},{"id":"193656","name":"Neuro Next Initiative"},{"id":"39521","name":"Robotics"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EChrista M. Ernst\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EResearch Communications Program Manager\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EKlaus Advance Computing Building 1120E | 266 Ferst Drive | Atlanta GA | 30332\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETopic Expertise: Robotics | Data Sciences | Semiconductor Design \u0026amp; Fab\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003Echrista.ernst@research.gatech.edu\u003C\/div\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["christa.ernst@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"683578":{"#nid":"683578","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Tech Talent On and Off The Screen","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EArticle originally published in the Georgia Tech Alumni Magazine, Vol. 101, No. 1, Spring 2025\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EWhen film director Tamer Shaaban, CS 11, set out to create a commercial announcing Audi\u2019s 2026 debut in Formula 1, he turned to Unreal Engine, a computer program normally used for developing video games. It was a creative decision that\u2019s becoming more common. According to Jason Freeman, Tech\u2019s interim associate vice provost for the arts, new technology is causing different forms of media and entertainment to converge. The ways in which video games and films are created are more similar than a decade ago, and 10 years from now, those methods will merge even more. Whether students plan to pursue a career in animation or one in film, they will need a common set of skills and the ability to respond to fast-changing technology. And Georgia Tech wants its students to be prepared for that.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cThere\u2019s an opportunity for us to better develop the workforce as this industry is evolving, and to become thought and research leaders in this space,\u201d says Freeman. \u201cTo do this, we need a flagship academic program, something that becomes a hub for all that activity.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EFor many years now, the arts have become increasingly visible at Georgia Tech. Rafael L. Bras, Tech\u2019s former provost and Regents\u2019 Professor, was an early champion of integrating the arts into the fabric of campus through works of public art and through collaborations between Georgia Tech students and artists-in-residence.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cDr. Bras helped us to understand that all GT students, regardless of their discipline of study, needed to embrace creativity to be successful in their careers, and that the arts are essential in teaching our students to flex their creative muscle,\u201d Freeman says.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EIn the fall of 2026, the Institute plans to launch a bachelor\u2019s of science degree in Arts, Entertainment, and Creative Technologies. The new curriculum, which includes collaboration with departments across campus, focuses on artistic practice, technical innovation, and entrepreneurship. Tech also plans to develop the former Randall Brothers property on Marietta Street as an innovation hub called the Creative Quarter focused on the arts, creativity, design, and technology.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cWe have had this reputation for so long as being just an engineering school,\u201d Freeman says. \u201cBut bit by bit we\u2019re making clear to the world that the arts are a very important part of our DNA here at Tech as well.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.gtalumni.org\/s\/1481\/alumni\/17\/magazine-pages.aspx?sid=1481\u0026amp;gid=21\u0026amp;pgid=25563\u0026amp;cid=58437\u0026amp;ecid=58437\u0026amp;crid=0\u0026amp;calpgid=5677\u0026amp;calcid=12432#\u0022\u003EHere, we feature nine alumni who prove just that (link to full Alumni Magazine article) \u0026gt;\u0026gt;\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETechnology has transformed the entertainment industry over the years. With imagination, ingenuity, and Tech-earned perseverance, these alumni shine on and off the screen.\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Technology has transformed the entertainment industry over the years. With imagination, ingenuity, and Tech-earned perseverance, these alumni shine on and off the screen."}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2025-08-06 13:46:37","changed_gmt":"2025-08-06 13:46:52","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-08-06T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-08-06T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677591":{"id":"677591","type":"image","title":"Tech Talents","body":null,"created":"1754487588","gmt_created":"2025-08-06 13:39:48","changed":"1754487625","gmt_changed":"2025-08-06 13:40:25","alt":"Tech Talents","file":{"fid":"261504","name":"tech_talents.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/06\/tech_talents.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/08\/06\/tech_talents.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":148240,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/08\/06\/tech_talents.jpg?itok=b82wX6g1"}}},"media_ids":["677591"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"683383":{"#nid":"683383","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Community Spotlight - Nicole Kennard","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ENicole Kennard\u2019s passion for sustainability and food justice took root as a Georgia Tech undergraduate in materials science and engineering. It then blossomed across the Atlantic in the U.K., where she studied sustainable food systems as a Fulbright Scholar and later as a doctoral student.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToday, she\u2019s back at Georgia Tech as assistant director for Community-Engaged Research in the Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems (BBISS). Kennard supports faculty in building meaningful and co-creative research partnerships with local communities to address pressing sustainability and societal challenges.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cI find food very interesting because it\u2019s interdisciplinary by necessity. Food is the great connector,\u201d says Kennard.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShe calls her journey back to Georgia Tech \u201ca full-circle moment,\u201d particularly since, as an undergrad, she worked on a community-engaged sustainability project for the Center for Serve-Learn-Sustain, now the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scre.research.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ECenter for Sustainable Communities Research and Education (SCoRE)\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile a Tech student, Kennard served for three years as president of the student chapter of Engineers for a Sustainable World, which started her interest in urban agriculture. She recalled a day when a nonprofit contacted her with a strange donation offer: hydroponic equipment they had received from the set of \u003Cem\u003EThe Hunger Games\u003C\/em\u003E. Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cI googled it and thought, why not?\u201d recalls Kennard, who started a campus hydroponics project. \u201cWe were just a group of students across different disciplines who took over the greenhouse on top of the biology building that hadn\u2019t been used for a long time,\u201d she said. \u201cWe got good at experimenting \u2014 we were growing food for the Atlanta Community Food Bank.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe students\u2019 expertise led them to build systems for other nonprofits and classrooms in the Atlanta area. From there, Kennard met Atlantans working in food justice and sustainable agriculture. It sparked a thirst for furthering her education, and Kennard was awarded a Fulbright scholarship to pursue a master\u2019s in sustainable agriculture and food security at Newcastle University in the U.K. She stayed through the Covid pandemic, earning her Ph.D. in chemistry and biosciences from the University of Sheffield in 2023.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow, she\u2019s excited to be home and connecting faculty with community partners. She hopes to build co-creative research partnerships that are \u201cmeaningful, sustainable, and long-lasting.\u201d\u0026nbsp; Her vision is to make Tech\u2019s research more locally beneficial by working directly with surrounding communities.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cSustainability is so broad that I feel it can touch anyone. At Georgia Tech, we have so much expertise that is perfect for this field.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EKennard is also passionate about training and connecting graduate students doing community-engaged research. She recently received a seed grant to build a cross-university network with Georgia State University, Emory University, and Spelman College.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EKennard\u2019s research projects include mapping Atlanta\u0027s local food system and addressing challenges for local urban growers. She notes that accessing food can be an issue for many in Atlanta, complicated by financial and transportation barriers. At the same time, Atlanta is one of the leading U.S. cities in urban agriculture and has a rich agricultural history and food culture. The city has a wealth of urban farms, community gardens, and local nonprofits working together to increase access to fresh, healthy foods and build community through food.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAn outdoor enthusiast, the Acworth, Georgia, native enjoys hiking, camping, traveling, foraging, and gardening in her free time.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u2014 written by Anne Wainscott-Sargent\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"Homegrown Sustainability"}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ENicole Kennard\u2019s passion for sustainability and food justice took root as a Georgia Tech undergraduate in materials science and engineering. It then blossomed across the Atlantic in the U.K., where she studied sustainable food systems as a Fulbright Scholar and later as a doctoral student.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToday, she\u2019s back at Georgia Tech as assistant director for Community-Engaged Research in the Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems (BBISS). Kennard supports faculty in building meaningful and co-creative research partnerships with local communities to address pressing sustainability and societal challenges.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Kennard supports faculty in building meaningful and co-creative research partnerships with local communities."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2025-07-30 15:18:35","changed_gmt":"2025-07-30 15:45:29","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-07-30T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-07-30T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677530":{"id":"677530","type":"image","title":"Nicole_Kennard_w_chick_cropped.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENicole Kennard holds a young chicken.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1753888728","gmt_created":"2025-07-30 15:18:48","changed":"1753888728","gmt_changed":"2025-07-30 15:18:48","alt":"Nicole Kennard holds a young chicken.","file":{"fid":"261438","name":"Nicole_Kennard_w_chick_cropped.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/30\/Nicole_Kennard_w_chick_cropped.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/30\/Nicole_Kennard_w_chick_cropped.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1041985,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/07\/30\/Nicole_Kennard_w_chick_cropped.jpg?itok=P_wAN4jP"}}},"media_ids":["677530"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"132","name":"Institute Leadership"}],"keywords":[{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Research Communications Program Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"683386":{"#nid":"683386","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Meet Tommer Ender: Interim Director of the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI)","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ETommer Ender, Ph.D., serves as the interim Director of the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) and Senior Vice President for Georgia Tech, stepping into the role following the departure of Jim Hudgens, who became President and CEO of UL Research Institutes in June.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EEnder takes the helm at GTRI as it reaches a new milestone in awards and revenue. During fiscal year 2025, GTRI secured $964 million in new awards, up 11% from the previous year, and earned $980 million in revenue. GTRI\u0027s renowned researchers combine science, engineering, economics, policy, and technical expertise to support national security, the state of Georgia, and industry.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cTommer has been a driving force behind GTRI\u2019s growth and evolution, and I\u2019m grateful he\u2019s serving in this interim capacity,\u201d said Tim Lieuwen, Georgia Tech\u2019s executive vice president for research. \u201cHis deep roots at Georgia Tech \u2014 as an alumnus, researcher, and executive \u2014 give him a uniquely steady hand at a pivotal time. He leads with both technical expertise and human insight, a rare combination that will serve GTRI well in the months ahead.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EEnder leads over 3,000 GTRI employees and researchers across a variety of disciplines, including autonomous systems, cybersecurity, electromagnetics, electronic warfare, modeling and simulation, sensors, systems engineering, test and evaluation, and threat systems. As interim Senior Vice President of Georgia Tech, Ender also serves on the President\u2019s Cabinet helping set operational and strategic direction for the Institute and reports to Tim Lieuwen, Georgia Tech\u2019s executive vice president for Research.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EWith nearly 25 years of experience focused on national security and systems engineering research, Ender most recently served as GTRI\u2019s Deputy Director for Research, leading the Electronics, Optics, and Systems Directorate (EOSD). He managed operations for an 800-person unit with an annual $300 million research portfolio across three research laboratories, and was also a member of the GTRI Executive Council, helping set GTRI strategy and informing critical decisions impacting the organization. Ender was previously the Director of GTRI\u2019s Electronic Systems (ELSYS) Laboratory, which has over 500 personnel across 12 locations in the United States.\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EEnder\u2019s personal area of research includes development of collaborative, executable Model -Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools utilizing multidisciplinary design optimization and trade space analytics applied to complex problems. He has also served as an instructor and course developer for Georgia Tech\u2019s Professional Master\u2019s in Applied Systems Engineering, and has been a member of several doctoral and master\u2019s thesis committees at Georgia Tech and other universities.\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cFor the past two decades, I have had the privilege to work with GTRI\u2019s renowned team of researchers who deliver innovative solutions to the world\u2019s most complex issues,\u201d said Ender. \u201cI am humbled to have been appointed interim Director of GTRI to support our mission focused on national security, improving the human condition, serving the state of Georgia, and educating future technology leaders.\u201d\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EEnder has been invited to participate in a number of national committees, including at the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine, offering up his expertise in the areas of systems and digital engineering. He is also a Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), and an active member of the International Council on Systems Engineers (INCOSE), National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA), and Military Operations Research Society (MORS), regularly publishing with those organizations.\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EA three-time alumnus, Ender earned his bachelor\u2019s, master\u2019s and doctorate degrees in Aerospace Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology. He is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP).\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EGeorgia Tech will be conducting a national search to identify the permanent director of GTRI, with more details to follow.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor more information, please contact \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:gtri.media@gtri.gatech.edu\u0022\u003Egtri.media@gtri.gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo learn more about GTRI, visit: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/gtri.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia Tech Research Institute | GTRI\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ETommer Ender, Ph.D., is the interim Director of GTRI and Senior VP at Georgia Tech, succeeding Jim Hudgens, now President and CEO of UL Research Institutes.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Tommer Ender, Ph.D., is the interim Director of GTRI and Senior VP at Georgia Tech, succeeding Jim Hudgens, now President and CEO of UL Research Institutes."}],"uid":"35874","created_gmt":"2025-07-30 15:26:07","changed_gmt":"2025-07-30 15:44:51","author":"Anna Akins","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-07-30T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-07-30T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677532":{"id":"677532","type":"image","title":"Tommer Ender ","body":"\u003Cp\u003EGTRI\u0027s interim Director Tommer Ender takes the helm as the organization reaches a new milestone in awards and revenue. During fiscal year 2025, GTRI secured $964 million in new awards, up 11% from the previous year, and earned $980 million in revenue.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1753889178","gmt_created":"2025-07-30 15:26:18","changed":"1753889178","gmt_changed":"2025-07-30 15:26:18","alt":"A headshot of GTRI\u0027s interim Director Tommer Ender. ","file":{"fid":"261440","name":"Tommer-Ender_interim_director.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/30\/Tommer-Ender_interim_director.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/30\/Tommer-Ender_interim_director.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":3802441,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/07\/30\/Tommer-Ender_interim_director.jpg?itok=6UnzQxuS"}},"677531":{"id":"677531","type":"image","title":"Tommer Ender","body":"\u003Cp\u003EGTRI\u0027s interim Director Tommer Ender takes the helm as the organization reaches a new milestone in awards and revenue. During fiscal year 2025, GTRI secured $964 million in new awards, up 11% from the previous year, and earned $980 million in revenue.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1753889178","gmt_created":"2025-07-30 15:26:18","changed":"1753889178","gmt_changed":"2025-07-30 15:26:18","alt":"A photo of GTRI\u0027s interim Director Tommer Ender, who is seated. ","file":{"fid":"261439","name":"Ender_Tommer_.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/30\/Ender_Tommer_.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/30\/Ender_Tommer_.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":62507,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/07\/30\/Ender_Tommer_.jpg?itok=Pr9jIqU3"}}},"media_ids":["677532","677531"],"groups":[{"id":"1276","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI)"}],"categories":[{"id":"136","name":"Aerospace"},{"id":"130","name":"Alumni"},{"id":"132","name":"Institute Leadership"}],"keywords":[{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"44641","name":"institute communications"},{"id":"415","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute"},{"id":"186313","name":"Aerospace Engineering School"},{"id":"187881","name":"Electronic Systems (ELSYS) Laboratory"},{"id":"543","name":"National Security"},{"id":"188423","name":"improving the human condition"},{"id":"190532","name":"state of Georgia impact"},{"id":"189094","name":"educate future leaders"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39451","name":"Electronics and Nanotechnology"},{"id":"193653","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute"},{"id":"39481","name":"National Security"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":["gtri.media@gtri.gatech.edu","nikki.troxclair@gtri.gatech.edu","michelle.gowdy@gtri.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"683308":{"#nid":"683308","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Teachers Across Multiple States Prepare to Bring AI Lessons into the Classroom","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EEighty teachers from four states recently completed intensive training on how to teach artificial intelligence (AI) to middle schoolers, part of a growing initiative to make AI education more accessible and engaging for students across the country.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe AI4GA program, launched through a National Science Foundation grant and now supported by Google, continues to grow through expanded teacher training and curriculum development. It was initially led by Christina Gardner-McCune (University of Florida), Dave Touretzky (Carnegie Mellon University), and Bryan Cox (Georgia Tech). The curriculum was co-designed with educators and faculty, including Georgia Tech\u2019s Judith Uchidiuno.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow in its fifth teacher cohort, AI4GA is focused on upskilling educators, many of whom don\u2019t have a background in computer science. Participants in the latest group included science, English, math, and social studies teachers from Georgia, Florida, Texas, and New York.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe did a really good job with Georgia, so now we\u2019re scaling up,\u201d said Cox, Kapor Fellow in Georgia Tech\u2019s Constellations Center for Education in Computing.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe curriculum introduced the cohort to machine learning, automated decision-making, natural language processing, and other foundational concepts in AI. They also learned about AI applications, including autonomous robots and self-driving vehicles.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.cc.gatech.edu\/news\/teachers-across-multiple-states-prepare-bring-ai-lessons-classroom\u0022\u003ERead the full story here from the College of Computing \u0026gt;\u0026gt;\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EEighty teachers from four states recently completed intensive training on how to teach artificial intelligence (AI) to middle schoolers, part of a growing initiative to make AI education more accessible and engaging for students across the country.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Eighty teachers from four states recently completed intensive training on how to teach artificial intelligence (AI) to middle schoolers, part of a growing initiative to make AI education more accessible and engaging for students across the country."}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2025-07-25 21:27:24","changed_gmt":"2025-07-25 21:27:53","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-07-25T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-07-25T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677497":{"id":"677497","type":"image","title":"AI Teacher Training","body":"\u003Cp\u003ETeacher Training for AI Lessons\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1753478597","gmt_created":"2025-07-25 21:23:17","changed":"1753478692","gmt_changed":"2025-07-25 21:24:52","alt":"AI Teacher Training","file":{"fid":"261400","name":"AIcopy3.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/25\/AIcopy3.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/25\/AIcopy3.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":61352,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/07\/25\/AIcopy3.jpg?itok=lSiDSmWR"}}},"media_ids":["677497"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"683292":{"#nid":"683292","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Taiwan Looks to Strengthen U.S. Manufacturing Ties Through Georgia Tech Innovation Tour","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Institute for People and Technology (IPaT) at Georgia Tech recently welcomed a Taiwanese delegation for a multi-day visit aimed at fostering international collaboration in technology, innovation, and economic development.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThis visit exemplifies IPaT\u2019s expanding global initiatives,\u201d said Michael Best, IPaT\u2019s executive director and professor with Georgia Tech\u2019s Sam Nunn School of International Affairs and School of Interactive Computing. \u201cWe aim to strengthen Georgia Tech\u2019s relationships with select international universities and companies.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe delegation, composed of Taiwanese leaders from academia, high-tech corporations, and national media, engaged in a robust agenda that showcased Georgia\u2019s growing role in advanced manufacturing, robotics, and startup innovation.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETunghai University, one of the visitors on this trip to Atlanta, is already working with Benoit Montreuil, Coca-Cola Material Handling \u0026amp; Distribution Chair and Professor in the H. Milton Stewart School of Industrial and Systems Engineering at Georgia Tech. The delegation had a chance to visit the Georgia Tech Supply Chain \u0026amp; Logistics Institute where Montreuil is the executive director.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe first day of the visit started with a briefing by Stella Xu, director at the Georgia Department of Economic Development, about Georgia\u2019s Quick Start program \u2014 Georgia\u2019s internationally acclaimed workforce training program that provides customized training free-of-charge to qualified new, expanding, and existing businesses. Next, the group learned about Georgia AIM (AI Manufacturing) \u2013 a statewide effort focused on workforce development and technology adoption for Georgia manufacturers.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDelegates also toured the advanced manufacturing pilot facility run by the Georgia Tech Manufacturing Institute where they observed cutting-edge AI and automation technologies in action.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA lunch hosted at Tech Square by the Georgia Department of Economic Development and IPaT provided an opportunity for informal dialogue and networking. The group then attended expert-led sessions at the Institute for Robotics and Intelligent Machines (IRIM). These included a robotics dialogue with Ye Zhao, assistant professor at the George Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, and a tour of the robotic research facilities with Aaron Young, associate professor in the Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe second day started with a visit to the Curiosity Lab in Peachtree Corners. This facility houses Georgia Tech\u2019s Atrium, a specialized facility that offers hands-on workshops, dedicated research facilities, industry partnerships, networking opportunities and more, setting the stage for Georgia Tech learners and alumni to immerse themselves in real-world innovation and pave the way for future breakthroughs in technology and design.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe afternoon of the second day included a visit to Georgia Tech\u2019s CREATE-X startup accelerator and a pitch from three student innovators who are working to launch a computer vision startup. The group then received an overview of IPaT\u2019s mission and research which included learning about the IPaT Way, a comprehensive approach to people-centered technical innovation. IPaT is exploring new collaboration models to connect research and industry from the Asian region to Georgia Tech research, faculty, and global programs.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe itinerary also included a meeting with representatives from the Metro Atlanta and Columbus Chambers of Commerce, a tour of Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport and the Porsche U.S. Headquarters, and even an opportunity to attend the 2025 Major League Baseball All-Star Game.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe visit underscored Georgia Tech and IPaT\u2019s role as a global hub for innovation and its commitment to fostering international partnerships that drive technological advancement and economic growth for the state of Georgia.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cGeorgia Tech\u2019s interdisciplinary and industry strengths are extremely impressive,\u201d said CY Huang, chairman of the GeoAsia Foundation, investment banker, and expert in the semiconductor industry. \u201cWe look forward to jointly exploring limitless possibilities for collaboration with Taiwan.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Institute for People and Technology (IPaT) at Georgia Tech recently welcomed a Taiwanese delegation for a multi-day visit aimed at fostering international collaboration in technology, innovation, and economic development.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The Institute for People and Technology (IPaT) at Georgia Tech recently welcomed a Taiwanese delegation for a multi-day visit aimed at fostering international collaboration in technology, innovation, and economic development. "}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2025-07-25 17:58:39","changed_gmt":"2025-07-25 17:59:41","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-07-25T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-07-25T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677491":{"id":"677491","type":"image","title":"Taiwanese Delegation","body":"\u003Cp\u003ETaiwanese delegates meeting with the Institute for People and Technology in the Coda Building.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1753465852","gmt_created":"2025-07-25 17:50:52","changed":"1753466198","gmt_changed":"2025-07-25 17:56:38","alt":"Taiwanese Delegation","file":{"fid":"261393","name":"taiwan-group.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/25\/taiwan-group.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/25\/taiwan-group.png","mime":"image\/png","size":4867342,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/07\/25\/taiwan-group.png?itok=95iLwVGE"}}},"media_ids":["677491"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWalter Rich\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["walter.rich@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"677936":{"#nid":"677936","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Building Resilient Communities: Insights from Kait Morano at Georgia Tech","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EIn a recent interview on The Weather Channel, \u003Cstrong\u003EKait Morano\u003C\/strong\u003E, a research scientist from Georgia Tech, discussed disaster resilience and the strategies communities can adopt to withstand extreme weather events. The discussion was particularly focused on the aftermath of hurricanes and the opportunities for rebuilding that they present.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUnderstanding Resilience:\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EMorano emphasized that while events like Hurricane Helene, Hurricane Milton, and other powerful storms cause widespread devastation, they also provide unique opportunities for transformative change. \u0022Communities can take advantage of funding sources available after extreme events from the federal government, private equity firms, and philanthropic organizations to build back better,\u0022 she said. \u201cThe key is having post-disaster redevelopment plans in place to seize these opportunities and build resilience against increasing storm frequency and severity.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe Role of Zoning:\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EThe conversation also touched on the controversial topic of zoning. Morano acknowledged that while zoning can be politically and publicly contentious, post-disaster scenarios create a window for necessary change. \u0022Often, zoning ordinances inadvertently encourage development in high-risk areas,\u0022 she explained. \u201cPost-disaster periods allow communities to reassess these policies and potentially shift development to lower-risk areas, enhancing overall safety and resilience.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMoving Forward:\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EMorano\u0027s insights highlight the need for proactive planning and policy reassessment to create safer, more resilient communities. As extreme weather events become more frequent, her expertise underscores the importance of seizing post-disaster opportunities to implement long-term, sustainable changes.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor communities looking to weather the storms of the future, the message is clear: resilience is not just about surviving the next storm, but about preparing and planning to thrive in the face of inevitable challenges according to Morano.\u003Cbr\u003E---\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EKait Morano is the resilience planning director for the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.cearhub.org\/\u0022\u003ECEAR Hub\u003C\/a\u003E and research scientist with Georgia Tech. CEAR Hub, a research project supported by Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/ipat\u0022\u003EInstitute for People and Technology\u003C\/a\u003E, is working with coastal communities to build a future informed by data, guided by strategy, and empowered by knowledge. Their work is organized around three core pillars: environmental sensors and decision support tools, community engagement and planning, and K-12 education and workforce development.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA portion of her interview with The Weather Channel on October 24, 2024 can be found here: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/fb.watch\/vvk6ABVAe0\/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3l1aSY7F6rYEKp_j7rSVTQA4QsHISg4Wu7QEZp1QYCQbxG64XjYlGwz_g_aem_UFYOZQMgz_PwDaF7BOkYeg\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Ehttps:\/\/fb.watch\/vvk6ABVAe0\/\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EIn a recent interview on The Weather Channel, Kait Morano, a research scientist from Georgia Tech, discussed disaster resilience and the strategies communities can adopt to withstand extreme weather events.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"In a recent interview on The Weather Channel, Kait Morano, a research scientist from Georgia Tech, discussed disaster resilience and the strategies communities can adopt to withstand extreme weather events. "}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2024-10-28 15:18:57","changed_gmt":"2025-07-17 18:12:20","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2024-10-28T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2024-10-28T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"675443":{"id":"675443","type":"image","title":"Kait Morano","body":"\u003Cp\u003EKait Morano is the resilience planning director for the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.cearhub.org\/\u0022\u003ECEAR Hub\u003C\/a\u003E and research scientist with Georgia Tech.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1730128625","gmt_created":"2024-10-28 15:17:05","changed":"1752776058","gmt_changed":"2025-07-17 18:14:18","alt":"Kait Morano is the resilience planning director for the CEAR Hub and research scientist with Georgia Tech. ","file":{"fid":"259067","name":"Screenshot-Kait-Morano.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2024\/10\/28\/Screenshot-Kait-Morano.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2024\/10\/28\/Screenshot-Kait-Morano.png","mime":"image\/png","size":1541568,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2024\/10\/28\/Screenshot-Kait-Morano.png?itok=QM5tKqij"}}},"media_ids":["675443"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWalter Rich\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["walter.rich@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"677801":{"#nid":"677801","#data":{"type":"news","title":"NASA Summer Camp Inspires Future Climate Leaders","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.cearhub.org\/\u0022\u003ECEAR\u003C\/a\u003E Hub partnered with the University of Georgia Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant to host a week-long NASA Sea Level Changemakers Summer Camp, introducing 14 rising 7th-8th\u0026nbsp;graders to\u0026nbsp;how\u0026nbsp;coastal areas are changing due to sea level rise. CEAR Hub is a project that joins community organizations, local governments, and educational institutions together to develop the knowledge, tools, and strategies that make our communities more resilient.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESet at the UGA Marine Education Center and Aquarium on Skidaway Island, the camp offered students hands-on activities and outdoor educational experiences, where they analyzed real data collected by NASA scientists and learned about community adaptations to flooding.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStudents interacted with experts from NASA\u2019s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, the University of Georgia, and the Georgia Institute of Technology, gaining insights into satellite observations, green infrastructure, environmental sensors, and careers related to sea level rise. The camp also included a visit to the Pin Point Heritage Museum, where students engaged with leaders from the historic Gullah Geechee community of Pin Point. The camp concluded with a boat trip to Wassaw Island, where students observed the effects of sea level rise on an undeveloped barrier island and compared these observations with earlier findings from urban environments. Funding from the NASA Science Activation Program ensured that the camp was accessible to all students, eliminating financial barriers for groups traditionally underrepresented in STEM fields.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERussell Clark, a member of the Georgia Tech\u0027s Institute for People and Technology (IPaT), is CEAR Hub\u0027s principal investigator\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EArticle originally posted on \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.cearhub.org\/post\/nasa-summer-camp-inspires-future-climate-leaders\u0022\u003ECEAR HUB news\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe CEAR Hub partnered with the University of Georgia Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant to host a week-long NASA Sea Level Changemakers Summer Camp.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The CEAR Hub partnered with the University of Georgia Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant to host a week-long NASA Sea Level Changemakers Summer Camp"}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2024-10-22 15:12:25","changed_gmt":"2025-07-17 18:09:52","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2024-10-01T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2024-10-01T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"675397":{"id":"675397","type":"image","title":"CEAR-Nasa students","body":"\u003Cp\u003ERising Georgia 7th-8th\u0026nbsp;graders learn\u0026nbsp;how\u0026nbsp;coastal areas are changing due to sea level rise.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1729609265","gmt_created":"2024-10-22 15:01:05","changed":"1729609457","gmt_changed":"2024-10-22 15:04:17","alt":"Rising Georgia 7th-8th\u00a0graders learn\u00a0how\u00a0coastal areas are changing due to sea level rise.\u00a0","file":{"fid":"259014","name":"screen_724-nasa-cear.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2024\/10\/22\/screen_724-nasa-cear.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2024\/10\/22\/screen_724-nasa-cear.png","mime":"image\/png","size":9289519,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2024\/10\/22\/screen_724-nasa-cear.png?itok=x71XwEYF"}}},"media_ids":["675397"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EWalter Rich\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["walter.rich@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"661853":{"#nid":"661853","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Sea Level Research and Resilience Efforts Expand","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) project funded by the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science has officially started September 2022 and is projected to be completed in August 2027. The project is led by Georgia Tech scientists and engineers working to aid in emergency planning and response during episodes of flooding along Georgia\u2019s coast.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis coastal infrastructure and resilience research initiative is called the Georgia CEAR Hub. This new phase of research follows the successful efforts of Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.sealevelsensors.org\/\u0022\u003Esmart sea level sensors research\u003C\/a\u003E which was a partnership between Chatham county emergency management agency officials, city of Savannah officials, and Georgia Tech scientists and engineers who have been working together for years to install a network of wireless, internet-enabled sea level sensors in key coastal areas.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe new CEAR Hub aims to advance transformative and inclusive resilience tools that address systemic barriers and enhance equitable access to resources and opportunities. The Hub will promote the resilience and sustainability of vulnerable and marginalized Georgia coastal communities through integrative community-driven research, education, training, and outreach to produce equitable, evidence-based, scalable solutions to challenges related to flooding and sea level rise.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERussell J. Clark\u003C\/strong\u003E, senior research scientist in the School of Computer Science at Georgia Tech\u2019s College of Computing, is leading the project. Clark is also a faculty member in the Institute of People and Technology at Georgia Tech. \u003Cstrong\u003EAllen Hyde\u003C\/strong\u003E, assistant professor in the School of History and Sociology in Georgia Tech\u2019s Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts, will lead a National Science Foundation project focused on youth disaster resilience as part of the effort.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhy We Care\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIncreasingly frequent floods along the Georgia coast have exposed the acute vulnerabilities of low-income and historically underserved residents to the growing threats of sea level rise (SLR), storm surge, and extreme precipitation under continued climate change. These threats often create severe localized flooding that impacts vulnerable communities and further exacerbates existing inequalities. Communities can benefit from frameworks for transdisciplinary research that integrate knowledge and data streams across social, ecological, and environmental dimensions and advance the design and implementation of evidence-based solutions for coastal resilience.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat We Are Doing\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Community-Direct Spending (CDS) funding for a Coastal Infrastructure and Resilience Research Initiative support the establishment of a Climate Equity and Resilience Hub that promotes the resilience and sustainability of vulnerable and marginalized Georgia coastal communities through integrative community-driven research, education, training, and outreach to produce equitable, evidence-based, scalable solutions to challenges related to flooding and sea level rise.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Hub has three primary objectives: 1) Establish a Stakeholder Decision Support System that combines a hyper-local water level observing sensor network and a coastal modeling system to provide real-time high-resolution and high-frequency flood data that coastal communities can use to plan for and respond to flood emergencies and design resilience and adaptation strategies for the long-term effects of projected flooding and sea-level rise; 2) to develop a Community Support and Engagement Strategy that includes partnerships with the following organizations: City of Savannah, Chatham County Emergency Management Agency, The Harambee House Citizens for Environmental Justice, Pin Point Betterment Association, Coastal Georgia Indicators Coalition, Tybee Marine Science Center, Savannah-Chatham County schools; 3) Bolster community capacity for engagement in coastal resilience research and planning activities through the development of enhanced K-12 programming and targeted workforce development.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrimary contact(s) for the project: \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:russ.clark@gatech.edu\u0022\u003Eruss.clark@gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E; \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brittany.king@noaa.gov\u0022\u003Ebrittany.king@noaa.gov\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/coastalscience.noaa.gov\/project\/coastal-infrastructure-and-resilience-research-initiative-the-georgia-coastal-equity-and-resilience-cear-hub\/\u0022\u003ERead NOAA\u2019s official kickoff announcement for CEAR \u0026gt;\u0026gt;\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EPast article: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/news.gatech.edu\/news\/2022\/04\/20\/recent-funding-sea-level-sensor-project-savannah-moves-new-phase\u0022\u003EWith Recent Funding, Sea Level Sensor Project in Savannah Moves into New Phase\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Sea Level Research and Resilience Efforts Expand\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"A National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) project funded by the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science has officially started "}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2022-10-05 14:28:46","changed_gmt":"2025-07-17 18:00:21","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2022-10-05T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2022-10-05T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"661852":{"id":"661852","type":"image","title":"Coastal Erosion","body":null,"created":"1664979939","gmt_created":"2022-10-05 14:25:39","changed":"1664979939","gmt_changed":"2022-10-05 14:25:39","alt":"Coastal Erosion","file":{"fid":"250700","name":"AdobeStock_257347108 copy-smaller.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/AdobeStock_257347108%20copy-smaller.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/AdobeStock_257347108%20copy-smaller.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":303331,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/images\/AdobeStock_257347108%20copy-smaller.jpg?itok=cQeCyK4U"}}},"media_ids":["661852"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:walter.rich@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EWalter Rich\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["walter.rich@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"671429":{"#nid":"671429","#data":{"type":"news","title":"CEAR Hub Hosts International Seminar on Community Resilience","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.cearhub.org\/\u0022\u003ECEAR Hub\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/a\u003Erecently partnered with the U.S. Forest Service to host a two-week international seminar on community resilience. The seminar provided training to 11 community leaders from Honduras, Bangladesh, Samoa, Mozambique, Solomon Islands, Fiji, Tanzania, Nepal, Belize, and\u0026nbsp;Brazil. The participants spent one week in Atlanta and one week in Savannah, learning\u0026nbsp;strategies for building social, environmental, and economic resilience. Numerous CEAR Hub projects were featured as case studies in the seminar, including the Hub\u2019s smart sea-level sensor network in coastal Georgia; emergency management support in Chatham County, GA; resilience planning work in the Gullah Geechee community of Pin Point (Savannah, GA); community garden development and youth engagement in Hudson Hill (Savannah, GA); K-12 education programs at Savannah State University; and environmental health research in Brunswick, GA. Through these examples, participants gained a deeper understanding of climate adaptation options, nature-based solutions, equitable community engagement, and the importance of collaboration in achieving community resilience.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe CEAR Hub lead principal investigator is Russell Clark, senior research scientist at the Georgia Institute of Technology and faculty member of the Institute for People and Technology (IPaT). Several members of the CEAR Hub team are affiliated with IPaT.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAbout the CEAR Hub\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ECoastal flooding, extreme heat, and other climate hazards are growing threats to communities throughout Georgia\u2019s coast. These threats are especially critical for historically marginalized groups,\u0026nbsp;who often face the most severe impacts and have the least ability to cope.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECEAR Hub is a project that joins community organizations, local governments, and educational institutions together to develop the knowledge, tools, and strategies that make our communities more resilient. CEAR Hub partners work alongside members of vulnerable communities to create fair and just solutions to the climate challenges through community-led research, training, and outreach.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.cearhub.org\/\u0022\u003ECEAR Hub\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/a\u003Erecently partnered with the U.S. Forest Service to host a two-week international seminar on community resilience.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The CEAR Hub recently partnered with the U.S. Forest Service to host a two-week international seminar on community resilience. "}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2023-12-05 20:37:43","changed_gmt":"2025-07-17 17:58:43","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2023-12-05T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2023-12-05T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"672509":{"id":"672509","type":"image","title":"CEAR Hub Group Photo-Dec-2023","body":"\u003Cp\u003ECEAR Hub Group Photo with International Visitors: Dec-2023\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n","created":"1701808439","gmt_created":"2023-12-05 20:33:59","changed":"1701808571","gmt_changed":"2023-12-05 20:36:11","alt":"CEAR Hub Group Photo-Dec-2023","file":{"fid":"255758","name":"Group.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2023\/12\/05\/Group.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2023\/12\/05\/Group.png","mime":"image\/png","size":2115463,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2023\/12\/05\/Group.png?itok=VADfBjiC"}}},"media_ids":["672509"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"683112":{"#nid":"683112","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Students Help Illuminate Coffee County\u2019s History","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech students played a pivotal role in the award-winning Coffee County Memory Project, an oral history initiative that preserves the stories of school desegregation in rural Georgia.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELaunched in 2016, the project was supported by the Institute\u2019s Sustainable Communities Summer Internship Program, run by the Center for Serve-Learn-Sustain (now the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scre.research.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ECenter for Sustainable Communities Research and Education\u003C\/a\u003E), in which students work full time with community partners across Atlanta and Georgia.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeginning in 2017, trusted advisers contributed to the success of this work, including \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/biography\/Vernon-E-Jordan-Jr\u0022\u003EVernon E. Jordan Jr.\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/iac.gatech.edu\/people\/person\/63944bd6-2568-50f1-bea8-f6a16a57344c\u0022\u003EChristopher Lawton\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/ann-mccleary-07212237\/\u0022\u003EAnn McCleary\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ce.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/g-wayne-clough\u0022\u003EG. Wayne Clough\u003C\/a\u003E. Clough, who served as Georgia Tech\u2019s president from 1994 to 2008, long advocated for public service, community-engaged research, and interdisciplinary teaching and learning.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn 2019, Georgia Tech students and participating interns Brice Minix and Nabil Patel combed through decades of local newspapers, digitized school board records, and conducted interviews with community members who lived in Coffee County during desegregation. In 2020, Kara Vaughan Adams and Bennett Bush transcribed countless interviews. Samina Patel\u2019s contributions in 2020 and 2021 included graphic and web design.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll their work laid the foundation for two virtual museum exhibits:\u202femergingVOICES of Coffee County\u202fand\u202fOvercoming Segregation: A Journey Through Coffee County\u2019s Forgotten Stories.\u202fThe latter received the 2023 Award of Excellence from the American Association of State and Local History. Further recognition came this year when the project earned the 2025 Georgia Association of Museums\u2019 Special Project Award for the PLAYBACK \u0026amp; FASTFORWARD seminar series.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ET. Cat Ford, Project Director said, \u201cThe Serve-Learn-Sustain interns we partnered with from Georgia Tech were all graduates of Coffee High School. Their efforts turbo-charged our work\u2014not only because they worked tirelessly but also because, as they preserved their own history, they offered valuable insights into their lived experience of this legacy.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EClick here to learn more about \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scre.research.gatech.edu\/sustainable-communities-summer-internship-program\u0022\u003ESCoRE\u2019s Sustainable Communities Internship Program\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech students played a pivotal role in the award-winning Coffee County Memory Project, an oral history initiative that preserves the stories of school desegregation in rural Georgia. Launched in 2016, the project was supported by the Institute\u2019s Sustainable Communities Summer Internship Program, run by the Center for Serve-Learn-Sustain (now the Center for Sustainable Communities Research and Education), in which students work full time with community partners across Atlanta and Georgia.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech students received the 2023 Award of Excellence from the American Association of State and Local History for the Coffee County Memory Project "}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2025-07-11 20:28:58","changed_gmt":"2025-07-14 15:50:36","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-07-11T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-07-11T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677403":{"id":"677403","type":"image","title":"AASLHAwardCeremony-Brice-Minix-2023_sized.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech student Bruce Minix accepts Award of Excellence from the American Association of State \u0026amp; Local History in September 2023.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1752265760","gmt_created":"2025-07-11 20:29:20","changed":"1752265760","gmt_changed":"2025-07-11 20:29:20","alt":"Georgia Tech student Bruce Minix accepts Award of Excellence from the American Association of State \u0026 Local History in September 2023.","file":{"fid":"261298","name":"AASLHAwardCeremony-Brice-Minix-2023_sized.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/11\/AASLHAwardCeremony-Brice-Minix-2023_sized.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/11\/AASLHAwardCeremony-Brice-Minix-2023_sized.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":197943,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/07\/11\/AASLHAwardCeremony-Brice-Minix-2023_sized.jpg?itok=wBVTZ8E4"}}},"media_ids":["677403"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[{"id":"194611","name":"State Impact"},{"id":"193157","name":"Student Honors and Achievements"},{"id":"8862","name":"Student Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:jennifer.martin@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EJennifer Martin\u003C\/a\u003E, Assistant Director of Research Communications Services\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["jennifer.martin@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"683037":{"#nid":"683037","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Debra Lam: The Future of Innovation Is Low-Tech, Local, and Community-Led","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Century of Cities podcast welcomed Debra Lam, Founding Executive Director of the Partnership for Inclusive Innovation, a regional public-private partnership driving innovation, workforce development, and economic opportunity. Debra challenges the long-held belief that innovation must be high-tech, making the case for low and no-tech approaches that prioritize people, process, and place. Debra offers a bold vision for the future of cities. She shares a powerful case study from Thomasville Heights in Atlanta, where drones and collaborative design helped alleviate energy poverty, and she unpacks the kind of decentralized, inclusive leadership needed to scale this work. Her insights remind us that the future of urban innovation lies not in flashy tech but in thoughtful partnerships, empowered communities, and a relentless focus on equity and access.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.thecenturyofcities.com\/podcast-episodes\/episode\/367fccb3\/debra-lam-the-future-of-innovation-is-low-tech-local-and-community-led\u0022\u003EGo here to listen to Debra Lam\u0027s podcast as she is interviewed by Greg Clark and Jennifer Dolynchuk \u0026gt;\u0026gt;\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Century of Cities podcast welcomed Debra Lam, Founding Executive Director of the Partnership for Inclusive Innovation\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The Century of Cities podcast welcomed Debra Lam, Founding Executive Director of the Partnership for Inclusive Innovation"}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2025-07-08 14:34:44","changed_gmt":"2025-07-08 14:35:29","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-07-08T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-07-08T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677351":{"id":"677351","type":"image","title":"Debra Lam","body":"\u003Cp\u003EDebra Lam is the Founding Director of the Partnership for Inclusive Innovation and an IPaT faculty member.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1751984969","gmt_created":"2025-07-08 14:29:29","changed":"1751985145","gmt_changed":"2025-07-08 14:32:25","alt":"Debra Lam","file":{"fid":"261243","name":"Debra_Lam_Headshot_2-copy.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/08\/Debra_Lam_Headshot_2-copy.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/08\/Debra_Lam_Headshot_2-copy.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":284277,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/07\/08\/Debra_Lam_Headshot_2-copy.jpg?itok=pfL249zn"}}},"media_ids":["677351"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"682999":{"#nid":"682999","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Chatfield Hired as New BBISS Director of Business Administration","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EKristina Chatfield has been hired as the Director of Business Administration for the Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems (BBISS), a new role that will provide administrative leadership and oversight for BBISS\u2019 growing portfolio of programs and activities. Chatfield began her Georgia Tech career as program and operations manager at the Center for Serve-Learn-Sustain (SLS) in 2015. In 2023, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/oue.gatech.edu\/GT-Announces-Institutionalization-Plan-for-SLS\u0022\u003ESLS transitioned into the Center for Sustainable Communities Research and Education (SCoRE)\u003C\/a\u003E housed within BBISS, with Chatfield assuming the program and portfolio manager role.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt first glance, she wasn\u2019t a typical sustainability hire at Georgia Tech.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShe was a business management consultant for a law firm who had also helped a national survey data firm with their data crunching. Higher ed was \u201clike a different planet,\u201d she recalls.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EChatfield realized early on that she could apply her management and operations background to any field. \u201cYou can\u2019t run any successful organization unless you have operational efficiency and program and project management.\u201d Without them, she says, \u201cThings don\u2019t work properly.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut equally important was her commitment to learning about academia and sustainability, areas that were not in her wheelhouse a decade ago. With support from Jennifer Hirsch, senior director of SCoRE (and formerly of SLS), Chatfield embraced both with gusto.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cI\u2019ve learned to approach sustainability from a holistic standpoint,\u201d Chatfield explains, noting that sustainability isn\u2019t just about the environment or systems \u2014 it\u2019s primarily about the people.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIf you have a passion for community engagement and sustainability, there\u2019s a lot of commonality you can find with people from all different persuasions. As human beings, we mostly care about the same things.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cKris is a master at setting up and managing complex operational and financial systems, and she is passionate about sustainability, communities, and Georgia Tech. This combination, together with her decade of management experience in SLS and SCoRE, makes her perfect for her new leadership role,\u201d says BBISS Executive Director Beril Toktay.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EChatfield says a key highlight of her work in sustainability has been connecting community organizations and nonprofit partners with the Institute through the SCoRE summer internship program. Georgia Tech students are partnered with community organizations throughout Atlanta. Now in its eighth year, the program allows students \u201cto learn about the social aspects of sustainability, innovation, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals in the context of actual work that\u2019s being done in the Atlanta area,\u201d Chatfield says. \u201cPartners benefit tremendously because the program expands their capacity by having these amazing Georgia Tech students working for them.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EChatfield says the internship program often serves as the first interaction partners have with Georgia Tech. \u201cIt opens the door to a much broader and deeper relationship.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn her free time, Kris enjoys her family life with five adult children, and soon she will welcome her third grandchild. \u201cBeing a grandparent is the best thing ever,\u201d she says.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShe also enjoys playing pickleball with her husband and traveling. With one of her sons about to be stationed in Germany with the Army, she hopes to combine her passions of travel and family time.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EWritten by Anne Wainscott-Sargent\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"\u2018People are the Most Important Part\u2019 - The Secret Behind Kristina Chatfield\u2019s Success"}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EKristina Chatfield has been hired as the Director of Business Administration for the Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems (BBISS), a new role that will provide administrative leadership and oversight for BBISS\u2019 growing portfolio of programs and activities. Chatfield began her Georgia Tech career as program and operations manager at the Center for Serve-Learn-Sustain (SLS) in 2015. In 2023, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/oue.gatech.edu\/GT-Announces-Institutionalization-Plan-for-SLS\u0022\u003ESLS transitioned into the Center for Sustainable Communities Research and Education (SCoRE)\u003C\/a\u003E housed within BBISS, with Chatfield assuming the program and portfolio manager role.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Director of Business Administration is a new role within BBISS that will provide administrative leadership and oversight for a growing portfolio of programs and activities."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2025-07-02 20:06:11","changed_gmt":"2025-07-08 14:11:20","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-07-08T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-07-08T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677336":{"id":"677336","type":"image","title":"Kristina-Chatfield-Headshot.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EPortrait of Kristina Chatfield\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1751486972","gmt_created":"2025-07-02 20:09:32","changed":"1751486972","gmt_changed":"2025-07-02 20:09:32","alt":"Portrait of Kristina Chatfield","file":{"fid":"261225","name":"Kristina-Chatfield-Headshot.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/02\/Kristina-Chatfield-Headshot.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/02\/Kristina-Chatfield-Headshot.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":133701,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/07\/02\/Kristina-Chatfield-Headshot.jpg?itok=rn3RnO1I"}}},"media_ids":["677336"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@sustainable.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Research Communications Program Manager\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@sustainable.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"668879":{"#nid":"668879","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Best Charts Expansive Vision for Institute for People and Technology","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EOn August 1, Michael Best began his new role as executive director of the Institute for People and Technology (IPaT) at Georgia Tech. As the first Interdisciplinary Research Institute executive director with a primary faculty appointment in the Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts, Best plans to build on IPaT\u2019s greatest strength: the reason that \u201cpeople\u201d come first in the institute\u2019s name.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIPaT is and will continue to be the heart and soul of Georgia Tech\u2019s research enterprise, bringing a human-centered approach to understanding the impact and potential of a very broad range of technological innovations,\u201d says Best. \u201cIt\u2019s the Interdisciplinary Research Institute that most robustly unites the humanitarians, policy experts, and social scientists of Ivan Allen College with designers, architects, artists, ethicists, scientists, and engineers.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen IPaT brings together these different mindsets, each with an equal seat at the table, Best says, they can have the greatest possible impact on humanity\u2019s challenges. He cites the explosion of capabilities in artificial intelligence (AI) \u2014 and the attendant problems that are also emerging \u2014 as one example of how this approach puts people at the center of any inquiry.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe need to put the questions of responsible and sustainable AI first and foremost,\u201d he says. \u201cAny time we\u2019re thinking about the next deep learning algorithm, we need to have all the right people in the room \u2014 ethicists; policymakers; cultural anthropologists \u2014 experts capable of addressing the whole range of issues we\u2019re seeing.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUnderstanding Challenges Around the Globe\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBest also believes that a global perspective, as well as getting out of the lab and into the field, are key to IPaT\u2019s future. He wants to expand the institute\u2019s international footprint. He has conducted most of his research outside the United States, primarily focusing on understanding the impact of information and communication technologies \u2014 such as mobile phones \u2014 on social, economic, and political development. He was also director of research for the Georgia Tech-Shenzhen campus and founding director of the United Nations University Institute on Computing and Society in the People\u2019s Republic of China.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIf we try to solve our global challenges from a domestic, blinkered viewpoint, we actually won\u2019t solve them at all,\u201d he says. \u201cYou can\u2019t solve a global challenge without understanding the challenge from a global perspective.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile leading IPaT, Best will retain his appointment as a professor in the Sam Nunn School of International Affairs and the School of Interactive Computing, where he directs the Technologies and International Development Lab. He says that his students are always in the field.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cMy students are conducting research, working with community partners, engaged with civil society or community-based organizations,\u201d he says. \u201cIt is always life-changing for them.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA Living Organization\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESince its inception, IPaT has gained recognition for its work in health and assistive technologies, in addition to smart cities and infrastructure technology. Best sees IPaT\u2019s focus broadening to include human-centered approaches to a wider range of technological innovations in areas such as sustainability, entertainment and the arts, and others.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn consultation with its stakeholders, faculty, and staff, IPaT will be looking to identify some of these new challenges and potential new directions over the next few months. Best expects they will look closely at areas where people and technology intersect with political and social justice issues.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn Best\u2019s view, this is very much in keeping with IPaT\u2019s history and character.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIPaT is a living organization and always has been \u2014 rethinking, recommitting, and occasionally pivoting,\u201d he says. \u201cWe are identifying what the next generation of research challenges will be. We\u2019re a research community, and we know that every once in a while, you need to embrace a new question.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ENote: The College of Computing\u0027s GVU Center merged with IPaT in 2023.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EAs the first Interdisciplinary Research Institute executive director with a primary faculty appointment in the Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts, Best plans to build on the greatest strength of the Institute for People and Technology: the reason that \u201cpeople\u201d come first in its name.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"As the first Interdisciplinary Research Institute executive director with a primary faculty appointment in the Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts, Best plans to build on the greatest strength of the Institute for People and Technology: the reason that \u201cpe"}],"uid":"35777","created_gmt":"2023-08-10 15:09:35","changed_gmt":"2025-07-07 13:39:42","author":"Stephanie Kadel","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2023-08-10T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2023-08-10T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"671372":{"id":"671372","type":"image","title":"Michael Best, Executive Director of the Institute for People and Technology","body":"\u003Cp\u003EMichael Best began his new role as executive director of the Institute for People and Technology on Aug. 1, 2023.\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n","created":"1691698765","gmt_created":"2023-08-10 20:19:25","changed":"1691698765","gmt_changed":"2023-08-10 20:19:25","alt":"Michael Best, executive director of the Institute for People and Technology, seated in a round chair.","file":{"fid":"254408","name":"Mike Best3647RTP (1).jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2023\/08\/10\/Mike%20Best3647RTP%20%281%29.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2023\/08\/10\/Mike%20Best3647RTP%20%281%29.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":453255,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2023\/08\/10\/Mike%20Best3647RTP%20%281%29.jpg?itok=e4Tgc8Df"}}},"media_ids":["671372"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/michael-best-selected-executive-director-institute-people-and-technology","title":"Michael Best Selected as Executive Director of the Institute for People and Technology"}],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"907","name":"Michael Best"},{"id":"12888","name":"IPaT"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"}],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:stephanie.kadel@gatech.edu\u0022\u003EStephanie N. Kadel\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EIvan Allen College of Liberal Arts\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["stephanie.kadel@gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"683021":{"#nid":"683021","#data":{"type":"news","title":"From Oscars to Emmys: Georgia Tech Alumni Transform Entertainment","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EBy the early 2000s, animation had come a long way from the days of Felix the Cat and Walt Disney. Computer-rendered images replaced hand-drawn characters. And the animation process, once the sole domain of creatives, became increasingly technical and mathematical. While stirring more dynamic visuals, the shift created long, laborious projects and ignited industry-wide hunger for a more natural creative process for animation.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDreamWorks Animation, the Universal Pictures\u2013owned studio behind celebrated hits like Shrek and Madagascar, tapped \u003Cstrong\u003EAlex Powell\u003C\/strong\u003E to spearhead a fix. Powell, a Georgia Tech GVU alum (GVU merged into the Institute for People and Technology in 2023) and his wife \u003Cstrong\u003EBridgette (Wiley) Powell\u003C\/strong\u003E, are both graduates of the College of Computing majoring in computer science.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOmer Inan\u003C\/strong\u003E, Regents\u2019 Entrepreneur and Linda J. and Mark C. Smith Chaired Professor in the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, won an Academy Award (Oscar) from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for his work on a sub-miniature lavalier microphone. Inan is a faculty member of the Institute for People and Technology.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERead more about Georgia Tech alumni accomplishments in \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/issuu.com\/gtalumni\/docs\/georgia_tech_alumni_magazine_vol._101_no._1_spr\u0022\u003EGeorgia Tech\u2019s Alumni Magazine, Spring 2025\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ERamblin\u2019 Wrecks have enlivened the entertainment industry\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Ramblin\u2019 Wrecks have enlivened the entertainment industry"}],"uid":"27513","created_gmt":"2025-07-07 13:29:17","changed_gmt":"2025-07-07 13:32:56","author":"Walter Rich","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-07-07T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-07-07T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677342":{"id":"677342","type":"image","title":"And the award goes to","body":null,"created":"1751894635","gmt_created":"2025-07-07 13:23:55","changed":"1751894667","gmt_changed":"2025-07-07 13:24:27","alt":"And the award goes to","file":{"fid":"261234","name":"and_the_award_goes_to.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/07\/and_the_award_goes_to.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/07\/07\/and_the_award_goes_to.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":108936,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/07\/07\/and_the_award_goes_to.jpg?itok=RteKPQTj"}}},"media_ids":["677342"],"groups":[{"id":"69599","name":"IPaT"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188084","name":"go-ipat"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39501","name":"People and Technology"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"681459":{"#nid":"681459","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Amid a Tropical Paradise Known as \u2018Lizard Island,\u2019 Researchers are Cracking Open Evolution\u2019s Black Box","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv class=\u0022theconversation-article-body\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEvery morning in Miami, our fieldwork begins the same way. Fresh Cuban coffee and pastelitos \u2013 delicious Latin American pastries \u2013 fuel our team for another day of evolutionary detective work. Here we\u2019re tracking evolution in real time, measuring natural selection as it happens in a community of Caribbean lizards.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs an \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?user=2QdWvJ4AAAAJ\u0026amp;hl=en\u0022\u003Eassistant professor\u003C\/a\u003E of ecology and evolution at \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/biosciences.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia Tech\u003C\/a\u003E, my journey with these remarkable reptiles has taken me \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/biosciences.gatech.edu\/people\/james-stroud\u0022\u003Efar from my London roots\u003C\/a\u003E. The warm, humid air of Miami feels natural now, a far cry from the gray, drizzly and lizard-free streets of my British upbringing.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOur research takes place on a South Florida island roughly the size of an American football field \u2013 assuming we\u2019re successful in sidestepping the American crocodiles that bask in the surrounding lake. We call it Lizard Island, and it\u2019s a special place.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere, since 2015, we\u2019ve been conducting evolutionary research on five species of \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=iz1wlgWn8D0\u0022\u003Eremarkable lizards called anoles\u003C\/a\u003E. By studying the anoles, our team is working to understand one of biology\u2019s most fundamental questions: How does natural selection drive evolution in real time?\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEach May, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1093\/biolinnean\/blae088\u0022\u003Ecoinciding with the start of the breeding season\u003C\/a\u003E, we visit Lizard Island to capture, study and release all adult anoles \u2013 a population that fluctuates between 600 to 1,000. For the entire summer, female anoles lay a single egg every seven to 10 days. By October, a whole new generation has emerged.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-center zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649851\/original\/file-20250218-32-3wepvn.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022An illustration of five species of anoles.\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649851\/original\/file-20250218-32-3wepvn.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649851\/original\/file-20250218-32-3wepvn.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=326\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649851\/original\/file-20250218-32-3wepvn.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=326\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649851\/original\/file-20250218-32-3wepvn.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=326\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649851\/original\/file-20250218-32-3wepvn.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=410\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649851\/original\/file-20250218-32-3wepvn.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=410\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649851\/original\/file-20250218-32-3wepvn.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=410\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003EThe anoles of Lizard Island, clockwise from top left: Cuban knight anole, Hispaniolan bark anole, American green anole, Cuban brown anole, Puerto Rican crested anole.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Ca class=\u0022source\u0022 href=\u0022https:\/\/www.dropbox.com\/scl\/fo\/kitiifdrdsv1kvtrrzmvd\/ACUVItoWdPhtDv7ClsTpuB0\/Day\u0026apos;s%20Edge%20Prods?rlkey=szjea3hyh7uw81fp71d28ijip\u0026amp;subfolder_nav_tracking=1\u0026amp;dl=0\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution\u0022\u003ENeil Losin\/Day\u0027s Edge Prods.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe Secret Lives of Lizards\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnoles aren\u2019t early risers, so we don\u2019t expect much activity until the Sun strengthens around 9:30 a.m.; this gives us time to prepare our equipment. Our team catches anoles with telescopic fishing poles fitted with little lassos, which we use to gently pluck the lizards off branches and tree trunks. Ask any lizard biologist about \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.anoleannals.org\/2011\/01\/17\/forum-what-makes-the-best-noose\/\u0022\u003Etheir preferred lasso material\u003C\/a\u003E and you\u2019ll spark the age-old debate: fishing line or dental floss? For what it\u2019s worth, we recently converted \u2013 we\u2019re now on Team Fishing Line.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPicture yourself as an anole on Lizard Island. Your life is short \u2013 typically just one year \u2013 and filled with daily challenges. You need to warm up in the Sun, find enough food to survive, search for a mate, guard your favorite branch from other lizards and avoid being eaten by a predator.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELike human beings, each lizard is unique. Some have longer legs, others stronger jaws, and all behave slightly differently. These differences could determine who survives and who doesn\u2019t; who has the most babies and who doesn\u2019t.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese outcomes drive \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.amnh.org\/exhibitions\/darwin\/evolution-today\/natural-selection-vista\u0022\u003Eevolution by natural selection\u003C\/a\u003E, the process where organisms with traits better suited to their environment tend to survive and reproduce more. These advantageous traits are then passed on to future generations, gradually changing the species over time. However, scientists still have an incomplete understanding of exactly how each of these features predicts life\u2019s winners and losers in the wild.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo understand how species evolve, researchers need to crack open this black box of evolution and investigate natural selection in wild populations. My colleagues and I are doing this by studying the anoles in exquisite detail. Last year was especially exciting: We ran what we called the Lizard Olympics.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-center zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649853\/original\/file-20250218-32-j18g6x.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022A researcher catches a lizard with a dental floss lasso.\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649853\/original\/file-20250218-32-j18g6x.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649853\/original\/file-20250218-32-j18g6x.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=708\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649853\/original\/file-20250218-32-j18g6x.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=708\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649853\/original\/file-20250218-32-j18g6x.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=708\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649853\/original\/file-20250218-32-j18g6x.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=890\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649853\/original\/file-20250218-32-j18g6x.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=890\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649853\/original\/file-20250218-32-j18g6x.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=890\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003ECatching an anole with a lizard lasso. Look closely \u2013 the anole blends in quite well with the tree.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Ca class=\u0022source\u0022 href=\u0022https:\/\/www.dropbox.com\/scl\/fo\/kitiifdrdsv1kvtrrzmvd\/ACUVItoWdPhtDv7ClsTpuB0\/Day\u0026apos;s%20Edge%20Prods?rlkey=szjea3hyh7uw81fp71d28ijip\u0026amp;subfolder_nav_tracking=1\u0026amp;dl=0\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution\u0022\u003ENeil Losin\/Day\u0027s Edge Prods.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ETiny Fishing Poles\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs the morning heat builds, we spot our first lizards: Cuban brown anoles near to the ground, and the mottled scales of Hispaniolan bark anoles just above them. Further up, in the leafy tree canopies, are American green anoles, and the largest species, the Cuban knight anole, about the size of a newborn kitten.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn 2018, a new challenger entered the arena \u2013 the Puerto Rican crested anole, a species already present in Miami but one that hadn\u2019t yet made it to Lizard Island. Its arrival provided us with an unexpected opportunity to study how species may evolve in real time \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41467-024-54302-1\u0022\u003Ein response to a new neighbor\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECatching these agile athletes requires patience and precision. With our modified fishing poles, we carefully loop the dental floss over their heads. Each capture site is marked with bright pink tape and a unique ID number; all lizards are then transported to our field laboratory just a short walk away.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-center zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649864\/original\/file-20250218-32-daxw8n.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022An anole, inside a container, is weighed in the laboratory by a researcher.\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649864\/original\/file-20250218-32-daxw8n.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649864\/original\/file-20250218-32-daxw8n.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=436\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649864\/original\/file-20250218-32-daxw8n.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=436\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649864\/original\/file-20250218-32-daxw8n.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=436\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649864\/original\/file-20250218-32-daxw8n.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=549\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649864\/original\/file-20250218-32-daxw8n.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=549\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649864\/original\/file-20250218-32-daxw8n.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=549\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003EIn the laboratory, Stroud weighs a green anole.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Ca class=\u0022source\u0022 href=\u0022https:\/\/www.dropbox.com\/scl\/fo\/kitiifdrdsv1kvtrrzmvd\/ACUVItoWdPhtDv7ClsTpuB0\/Day\u0026apos;s%20Edge%20Prods?dl=0\u0026amp;rlkey=szjea3hyh7uw81fp71d28ijip\u0026amp;subfolder_nav_tracking=1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution\u0022\u003ENeil Losin\/Day\u0027s Edge Prods.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe Lizard Olympics\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere, the real Olympic trials begin. Every athlete goes through a comprehensive evaluation. Our portable X-ray machine reveals their skeletal structure, and high-resolution scans capture the intricate details of their feet. This is particularly critical: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.livescience.com\/47307-how-geckos-stick-and-unstick-feet.html\u0022\u003ELike their gecko cousins\u003C\/a\u003E, anoles possess remarkable sticky toes that allow them to cling to smooth surfaces such as leaves and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/natural-selection-in-action-hurricanes-irma-and-maria-affected-island-lizards-100371\u0022\u003Emaybe even survive hurricanes\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe also measure the shape and sharpness of their claws, as both features are crucial for these tree climbers. DNA samples provide a genetic fingerprint for each individual, allowing us to map family relationships across the island and see which is the most reproductively successful.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-right zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649870\/original\/file-20250218-38-exh440.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022An X-ray image of a lizard.\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649870\/original\/file-20250218-38-exh440.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=237\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649870\/original\/file-20250218-38-exh440.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=476\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649870\/original\/file-20250218-38-exh440.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=476\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649870\/original\/file-20250218-38-exh440.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=476\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649870\/original\/file-20250218-38-exh440.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=599\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649870\/original\/file-20250218-38-exh440.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=599\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649870\/original\/file-20250218-38-exh440.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=599\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003EA portable X-ray machine takes detailed measurements of a lizard\u2019s skeleton.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Ca class=\u0022source\u0022 href=\u0022https:\/\/no%20source\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution\u0022\u003EJames Stroud\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe performance trials are where things get interesting. Imagine a tiny track meet for lizards. Using high-speed video cameras, we precisely test how fast each lizard runs, and using specialist equipment we measure how hard it bites and how strong it grips rough branches and smooth leaves.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese aren\u2019t arbitrary measurements \u2013 each represents a potential evolutionary advantage. Fast lizards might better escape predators. Strong bites might determine winners in territorial disputes. Excellent grip is crucial for tree canopy acrobatics.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEach measurement helps us answer fundamental questions about evolution: Do faster lizards live longer? Do stronger biters produce more offspring? These are the essential metrics of evolution by natural selection.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-left zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649872\/original\/file-20250218-32-59ed0y.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022A researcher shows us the lizard\u0026apos;s identification code.\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649872\/original\/file-20250218-32-59ed0y.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=237\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649872\/original\/file-20250218-32-59ed0y.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=676\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649872\/original\/file-20250218-32-59ed0y.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=676\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649872\/original\/file-20250218-32-59ed0y.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=676\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649872\/original\/file-20250218-32-59ed0y.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=850\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649872\/original\/file-20250218-32-59ed0y.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=850\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649872\/original\/file-20250218-32-59ed0y.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=850\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003EThe identification code lets researchers track the lizard\u2019s growth and survival.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Ca class=\u0022source\u0022 href=\u0022https:\/\/www.dropbox.com\/scl\/fo\/kitiifdrdsv1kvtrrzmvd\/AEl6nBJ9FAcZOo5vXhFvKWE?rlkey=szjea3hyh7uw81fp71d28ijip\u0026amp;e=1\u0026amp;dl=0\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution\u0022\u003ENeil Losin\/Day\u0027s Edge Prods.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs afternoon approaches, the team relocates each piece of bright pink tape and returns the corresponding lizard to the exact branch it was caught on. The anoles now sport two tiny 3-millimeter tags with a unique code that lets us identify it when we recapture it in future research trips, along with a small dot of white nail polish so we know not to catch it immediately after we let it go.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt 8:30 p.m., with the Lizard Olympics done for the day, we return to the island donning headlamps. Night brings a different perspective. Some of the most wily lizards are difficult to catch when fully charged by the midday Sun, so our nocturnal jaunts allow us to find them while they sleep. However, it\u2019s often a race against time. Hungry lizard-eating corn snakes are also out hunting, trying to find the anoles before we do. As we wrap up another 16-hour day around 11:30 p.m., the team shares stories of the night.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-center zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649873\/original\/file-20250218-32-7sagx9.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022A baby lizard is asleep on a leaf.\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649873\/original\/file-20250218-32-7sagx9.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649873\/original\/file-20250218-32-7sagx9.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=507\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649873\/original\/file-20250218-32-7sagx9.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=507\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649873\/original\/file-20250218-32-7sagx9.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=507\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649873\/original\/file-20250218-32-7sagx9.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=637\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649873\/original\/file-20250218-32-7sagx9.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=637\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649873\/original\/file-20250218-32-7sagx9.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=637\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003EShould a snake climb along a branch where a baby anole sleeps, the lizard will wake up and drop to the ground to escape.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Ca class=\u0022source\u0022 href=\u0022https:\/\/no%20source\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution\u0022\u003EJames Stroud\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EEvolution on the Island\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow spanning 10 years, 10 generations and five species, our Lizard Island dataset represents \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41586-025-08597-9\u0022\u003Eone of the longest-running active studies\u003C\/a\u003E of its kind in evolutionary biology. By tracking which individuals survive and reproduce, and linking their success to specific physical traits and performance abilities, we\u2019re documenting natural selection with unprecedented detail.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo far we have uncovered two fascinating patterns. Initially, it didn\u2019t pay to be different on Lizard Island. Anoles with very average shapes and sizes lived longer compared with \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1073\/pnas.2222071120\u0022\u003Ethose that are slightly different\u003C\/a\u003E. But when the crested anoles arrived, everything changed: Suddenly, brown anoles with longer legs \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41467-024-54302-1\u0022\u003Ehad a survival advantage\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-right zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649858\/original\/file-20250218-44-k789g7.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Next to a rock, a brown lizard shows its orange dewlap.\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649858\/original\/file-20250218-44-k789g7.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=237\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649858\/original\/file-20250218-44-k789g7.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=859\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649858\/original\/file-20250218-44-k789g7.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=859\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649858\/original\/file-20250218-44-k789g7.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=859\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649858\/original\/file-20250218-44-k789g7.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=1080\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649858\/original\/file-20250218-44-k789g7.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=1080\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/649858\/original\/file-20250218-44-k789g7.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=1080\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003EAnoles communicate with their dewlap, an expandable throat fan that signals other lizards.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Ca class=\u0022source\u0022 href=\u0022https:\/\/www.dropbox.com\/scl\/fo\/awu72ov5qbr9vmxcg788o\/ALTbYwipLuM9Iz7crKE5cTY?rlkey=oaaktbmuvcvcglwyavxmybuag\u0026amp;e=2\u0026amp;dl=0\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution\u0022\u003EJon Suh\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Lizard Olympics is helping us understand why. The larger, more aggressive crested anoles are forcing brown anoles to spend more time on the ground, where those with longer legs might run faster to escape predators \u2013 allowing them to better survive and pass on their long-leg genes, while shorter-legged anoles might be eaten before they can reproduce.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy watching natural selection unfold in response to environmental changes, rather than inferring it from fossil records, we\u2019re providing cutting-edge evidence for evolutionary processes that Charles Darwin could only theorize about.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese long days of observation are slowly revealing one of biology\u2019s most fundamental processes. Every lizard we catch, every measurement we take adds another piece to our understanding of how species adapt and evolve in an ever-changing world.\u003C!-- Below is The Conversation\u0027s page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --\u003E\u003Cimg style=\u0022border-color:!important;border-style:none;box-shadow:none !important;margin:0 !important;max-height:1px !important;max-width:1px !important;min-height:1px !important;min-width:1px !important;opacity:0 !important;outline:none !important;padding:0 !important;\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/counter.theconversation.com\/content\/246474\/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic\u0022 alt=\u0022The Conversation\u0022 width=\u00221\u0022 height=\u00221\u0022 referrerpolicy=\u0022no-referrer-when-downgrade\u0022\u003E\u003C!-- End of code. If you don\u0027t see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https:\/\/theconversation.com\/republishing-guidelines --\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis article is republished from \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThe Conversation\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E under a Creative Commons license. Read the \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/amid-a-tropical-paradise-known-as-lizard-island-researchers-are-cracking-open-evolutions-black-box-scientist-at-work-246474\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003Eoriginal article\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"full_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EEach May, coinciding with the start of the breeding season, we visit Lizard Island to capture, study and release all adult anoles \u2013 a population that fluctuates between 600 to 1,000.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Each May, coinciding with the start of the breeding season, we visit Lizard Island to capture, study and release all adult anoles \u2013 a population that fluctuates between 600 to 1,000."}],"uid":"27469","created_gmt":"2025-03-31 14:51:12","changed_gmt":"2025-07-01 00:50:34","author":"Kristen Bailey","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-03-25T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-03-25T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"673890":{"id":"673890","type":"image","title":"James Stroud examines an anole (Day\u2019s Edge Productions)","body":null,"created":"1714494317","gmt_created":"2024-04-30 16:25:17","changed":"1714494317","gmt_changed":"2024-04-30 16:25:17","alt":"James Stroud examines an anole (Day\u2019s Edge Productions)","file":{"fid":"257341","name":"original_stroudresearchmiami_003_daysedgeprods.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2024\/04\/30\/original_stroudresearchmiami_003_daysedgeprods.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2024\/04\/30\/original_stroudresearchmiami_003_daysedgeprods.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":494176,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2024\/04\/30\/original_stroudresearchmiami_003_daysedgeprods.jpg?itok=cfKU82J9"}}},"media_ids":["673890"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/theconversation.com\/amid-a-tropical-paradise-known-as-lizard-island-researchers-are-cracking-open-evolutions-black-box-scientist-at-work-246474","title":"Read This Article on The Conversation"}],"groups":[{"id":"1278","name":"College of Sciences"},{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"}],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71911","name":"Earth and Environment"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Ch5\u003EAuthor:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/profiles\/james-t-stroud-1477595\u0022\u003EJames T. Stroud\u003C\/a\u003E, Assistant Professor of Ecology and Evolution, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/institutions\/georgia-institute-of-technology-1310\u0022\u003EGeorgia Institute of Technology\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch5\u003EMedia Contact:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShelley Wunder-Smith\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:shelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003Eshelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"682329":{"#nid":"682329","#data":{"type":"news","title":"How the US Can Mine Its Own Critical Minerals \u2014 Without Digging New\u00a0Holes","body":[{"value":"\u003Cdiv class=\u0022theconversation-article-body\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEvery time you use your phone, open your computer or listen to your favorite music on AirPods, you are relying on critical minerals.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese materials are the tiny building blocks powering modern life. From lithium, cobalt, nickel and graphite in batteries to gallium in telecommunication systems that enable constant connectivity, critical minerals act as the essential vitamins of modern technology: small in volume but vital to function.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYet the U.S. depends heavily on imports \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.3133\/mcs2025\u0022\u003Efor most critical materials\u003C\/a\u003E. In 2024 the U.S. imported 80% of \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/what-are-rare-earths-crucial-elements-in-modern-technology-4-questions-answered-101364\u0022\u003Erare earth elements\u003C\/a\u003E it used, 100% of gallium and natural graphite, and 48% to 76% of lithium, nickel and cobalt, to name a few.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ciframe width=\u0022440\u0022 height=\u0022260\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Wooz8XfquS4?wmode=transparent\u0026amp;start=0\u0022 frameborder=\u00220\u0022 allowfullscreen=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003C\/iframe\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERising global demand, high import dependency and growing geopolitical tensions have made critical mineral supply an \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.whitehouse.gov\/presidential-actions\/2025\/03\/immediate-measures-to-increase-american-mineral-production\/\u0022\u003Eincreasing national security concern\u003C\/a\u003E \u2212 and one of the most urgent \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.reuters.com\/world\/china-hits-back-us-tariffs-with-rare-earth-export-controls-2025-04-04\/\u0022\u003Esupply chain challenges\u003C\/a\u003E of our time.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat raises a question: Could the U.S. mine and process more critical minerals at home?\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs a \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?user=MSQB5REAAAAJ\u0026amp;hl=en\u0022\u003Egeochemist\u003C\/a\u003E who leads Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sites.gatech.edu\/cems\/\u0022\u003ECenter for Critical Mineral Solutions\u003C\/a\u003E and an \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?hl=en\u0026amp;user=kFN5-NQAAAAJ\u0026amp;view_op=list_works\u0026amp;sortby=pubdate\u0022\u003Eengineer\u003C\/a\u003E focused on energy innovation, we have been exploring the options and barriers for U.S. critical mineral production.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWhat\u2019s Stopping Critical Minerals From Being Produced Domestically?\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELet\u2019s take a look at rare earth elements.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese elements are essential to modern technology, electric vehicles, energy systems and military applications. \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.usgs.gov\/media\/images\/potential-uses-rare-earth-elements-found-marine-minerals\u0022\u003EFor example\u003C\/a\u003E, neodymium is critical for making the strong magnets used in computer hard discs, lasers and wind turbines. Gadolinium is vital for MRI machines, while samarium and cerium play key roles in nuclear reactors and energy systems such as solar and wind power.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDespite their name, rare earth elements are \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/fs\/2002\/fs087-02\/\u0022\u003Eactually not rare\u003C\/a\u003E. Their concentrations in the Earth\u2019s crust are comparable to more commonly mined metals such as zinc and copper.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHowever, rare earth elements do not often occur in easily accessible, economically viable mineral forms or high-grade deposits. As a result, identifying resources with sufficiently high concentration and large volume is crucial for enabling their economic production.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-center \u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022A mine and buildings with mountains in the background.\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/665290\/original\/file-20250501-56-j7fza1.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/665290\/original\/file-20250501-56-j7fza1.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=399\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/665290\/original\/file-20250501-56-j7fza1.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=399\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/665290\/original\/file-20250501-56-j7fza1.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=399\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/665290\/original\/file-20250501-56-j7fza1.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=502\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/665290\/original\/file-20250501-56-j7fza1.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=502\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/665290\/original\/file-20250501-56-j7fza1.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=502\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003EMP Materials\u2019 Mountain Pass Rare Earth Mine and Processing Facility is in California near the Nevada border.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Ca class=\u0022source\u0022 href=\u0022https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Mountain_Pass_Rare_Earth_Mine_%26_Processing_Facility.jpg\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution\u0022\u003ETmy350\/Wikimedia Commons\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution\u0022\u003E, \u003C\/span\u003E\u003Ca class=\u0022license\u0022 href=\u0022http:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution\u0022\u003ECC BY-SA\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe U.S. currently has only two domestic rare earth mining locations: Georgia and California.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn southeast Georgia, rare earths are being produced as a byproduct of heavy mineral sand mining, but the produced rare earth concentrates are \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.chemours.com\/en\/news-media-center\/all-news\/press-releases\/2025\/chemours-and-energy-fuels-forming-strategic-alliance-to-create-a-domestic-supply-chain\u0022\u003Eshipped out of state and then abroad\u003C\/a\u003E for refining into the materials used in renewable energy technologies and permanent magnets.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe other location is in Mountain Pass, California, where hard rock mining extracts a rare earth carbonate mineral called bastnaesite. Yet again, much of the material is sent abroad for refining. As a result, the entire supply chain \u2212 from mining to final use in products \u2212 stretches across continents.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-center \u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Map shows Canada and China are the largest sources of imports of critical materials.\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/665692\/original\/file-20250505-62-r0fed6.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/665692\/original\/file-20250505-62-r0fed6.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=369\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/665692\/original\/file-20250505-62-r0fed6.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=369\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/665692\/original\/file-20250505-62-r0fed6.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=369\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/665692\/original\/file-20250505-62-r0fed6.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=464\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/665692\/original\/file-20250505-62-r0fed6.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=464\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/665692\/original\/file-20250505-62-r0fed6.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=464\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Ca class=\u0022source\u0022 href=\u0022https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/periodicals\/mcs2025\/mcs2025.pdf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution\u0022\u003EU.S. Geological Survey\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ciframe class=\u0022tc-infographic-datawrapper\u0022 style=\u0022border-width:0;\u0022 id=\u0022pQuWN\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/datawrapper.dwcdn.net\/pQuWN\/1\/\u0022 height=\u0022400px\u0022 width=\u0022100%\u0022 scrolling=\u0022no\u0022 frameborder=\u00220\u0022\u003E\u003C\/iframe\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMeeting the U.S. demand for rare earth elements and other critical minerals from operations within the United States will require more than just opening new mines. It will require developing and scaling up new technologies, as well as building processing operations.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHistorically, processing has largely taken place overseas because of the environmental impacts, energy demand and regulatory constraints.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe Potential, But Long Road, to New Mines\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInvestment in exploration activity for critical minerals is rapidly increasing across the U.S.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn 2017 the U.S. Geological Survey launched the Earth Mapping Resources Initiative \u2212 known as \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.usgs.gov\/earth-mapping-resources-initiative-earth-mri\u0022\u003EEarth MRI\u003C\/a\u003E \u2212 to identify \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/publication\/ofr20201042\u0022\u003Epotential sources\u003C\/a\u003E of critical minerals within the country.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome areas that appear promising for rare earth elements have lots of chemical weathering, in which rocks containing rare earth elements are broken down by reacting with water and air. Exploration is underway at several of these sites, including in \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ramacoresources.com\/critical-minerals-rees\/\u0022\u003Elocations\u003C\/a\u003E in \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/americanrareearths.com.au\/projects\/halleck-creek-wy\/\u0022\u003EWyoming\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/uscriticalmaterials.com\/sheep-creek\/\u0022\u003EMontana\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure class=\u0022align-center zoomable\u0022\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/665429\/original\/file-20250502-56-7q5ytz.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=1000\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Map shows large areas with potential for critical minerals\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/665429\/original\/file-20250502-56-7q5ytz.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;fit=clip\u0022 srcset=\u0022https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/665429\/original\/file-20250502-56-7q5ytz.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=378\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 600w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/665429\/original\/file-20250502-56-7q5ytz.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=378\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1200w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/665429\/original\/file-20250502-56-7q5ytz.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=600\u0026amp;h=378\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 1800w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/665429\/original\/file-20250502-56-7q5ytz.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=45\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=475\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=1 754w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/665429\/original\/file-20250502-56-7q5ytz.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=30\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=475\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=2 1508w, https:\/\/images.theconversation.com\/files\/665429\/original\/file-20250502-56-7q5ytz.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0\u0026amp;q=15\u0026amp;auto=format\u0026amp;w=754\u0026amp;h=475\u0026amp;fit=crop\u0026amp;dpr=3 2262w\u0022 sizes=\u0022(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px\u0022\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003EA map shows focus areas for 23 mineral systems that could have critical mineral resources.\u003C\/span\u003E \u003Ca class=\u0022source\u0022 href=\u0022https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/fs\/2023\/3007\/fs20233007.pdf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022attribution\u0022\u003EUSGS\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIdentifying a resource, however, is not the same as producing it.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETraditional mining can take a decade or two from exploration to production and up to 29 years in the U.S., \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cdn.ihsmarkit.com\/www\/pdf\/0724\/SPGlobal_NMA_DevelopmentTimesUSinPerspective_June_2024.pdf\u0022\u003Ethe second-longest timeline in the world\u003C\/a\u003E. Although this timeline could be \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.mining.com\/web\/us-adds-10-more-mining-projects-to-fast-track-permitting-list\/\u0022\u003Echanging under the current administration\u003C\/a\u003E, companies might still face major uncertainties related to permitting, infrastructure development and, in some places, community opposition. Managing environmental impacts, such as \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/occup-med.biomedcentral.com\/articles\/10.1186\/s12995-024-00433-6\u0022\u003Eair and water pollution\u003C\/a\u003E and high \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s43017-022-00387-5\u0022\u003Ewater consumption and energy use\u003C\/a\u003E, can further increase cost and extend project timelines.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGiven that the exploration projects mentioned above are still in early stage, the U.S. needs additional, parallel efforts that can bring resources to the market at an accelerated pace.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EMining the Materials We Have Already Mined\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne of the fastest ways to increase U.S. rare earth production may not require digging new holes in the ground \u2212 but rather returning to old ones.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Atlantic coast region \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.usgs.gov\/publications\/national-map-focus-areas-potential-critical-mineral-resources-united-states\u0022\u003Estands out on the Earth MRI map\u003C\/a\u003E as a particularly promising area. What\u2019s even better is that this region has already established extensive mining activities and mature infrastructure, which allows for much faster speed to market.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia has mineral sand deposits that are rich in \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.usgs.gov\/centers\/gggsc\/science\/critical-mineral-resources-heavy-mineral-sands-us-atlantic-coastal-plain\u0022\u003Etitanium, zirconium, and rare earth elements\u003C\/a\u003E. Titanium and zirconium \u2212 both used in aerospace, energy and medical applications \u2212 are already mined in Florida and Georgia. In southeast Georgia, rare earth elements found with these heavy mineral sands are already being \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.chemours.com\/en\/about-chemours\/global-reach\/southern-ionics-minerals\u0022\u003Erecovered as rare earth concentrates\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigure\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ciframe width=\u0022440\u0022 height=\u0022260\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/jl-svrk1sPk?wmode=transparent\u0026amp;start=0\u0022 frameborder=\u00220\u0022 allowfullscreen=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003C\/iframe\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cfigcaption\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022caption\u0022\u003EKaolin mining near Macon, Ga.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/figcaption\u003E\u003C\/figure\u003E\u003Cp\u003EKaolin, a white clay used in paper, paint and porcelain, has been mined in Georgia for over a century, and it can also contain rare earth elements. Georgia generates \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.georgiaencyclopedia.org\/articles\/business-economy\/kaolin\/\u0022\u003Emore than 8 million tons\u003C\/a\u003E of kaolin annually, making it the leading U.S. producer and a large exporter. This also comes with millions of tons of mining and processing residues, or what\u2019s known as tailings.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERecent \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.chemgeo.2024.122151\u0022\u003Eresearch studies\u003C\/a\u003E suggest that there is significant potential for extracting \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/s42860-023-00235-7\u0022\u003Erare earth elements in the tailings\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe tailings are already mined and sitting on the surface. There is no need to drill or blast. That means existing infrastructure, faster timelines and lower costs and than new mining operations.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETechnological innovations, such as \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.jece.2023.110413\u0022\u003Ebioleaching\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.cej.2025.162661\u0022\u003Eligand-based extraction and separation\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.isci.2021.102374\u0022\u003Eelectrochemical separation\u003C\/a\u003E, are now making mining these legacy wastes possible. New processing facilities could be built near existing kaolin or heavy mineral sand operations or former mine sites, bringing materials to market in a few years rather than decades.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe Future of Waste Mining\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis approach is part of a broader strategy known as \u201cwaste mining,\u201d \u201curban mining\u201d or \u201cmining the anthropogenic cycle.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt involves the recovery of critical minerals from existing waste streams such as \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.geosociety.org\/GSA\/GSA\/GSAToday\/archive\/34\/5\/contents.aspx\u0022\u003Emine tailings\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/doi.org\/10.1021\/acs.est.2c09273\u0022\u003Ecoal ash\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/doi.org\/10.1021\/acssusresmgt.3c00026\u0022\u003Eindustrial byproducts\u003C\/a\u003E. It is also part of building a \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org\/topics\/circular-economy-introduction\/overview\u0022\u003Ecircular economy\u003C\/a\u003E, where materials are reused and recycled rather than discarded.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe U.S. has the potential to catalyze new domestic supply chains for materials essential to national security and technology. Waste mining and recycling are critical pieces to ensure the long-term sustainability of these supply chains.\u003C!-- Below is The Conversation\u0027s page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --\u003E\u003Cimg style=\u0022border-color:!important;border-style:none;box-shadow:none !important;margin:0 !important;max-height:1px !important;max-width:1px !important;min-height:1px !important;min-width:1px !important;opacity:0 !important;outline:none !important;padding:0 !important;\u0022 src=\u0022https:\/\/counter.theconversation.com\/content\/252609\/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic\u0022 alt=\u0022The Conversation\u0022 width=\u00221\u0022 height=\u00221\u0022 referrerpolicy=\u0022no-referrer-when-downgrade\u0022\u003E\u003C!-- End of code. If you don\u0027t see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https:\/\/theconversation.com\/republishing-guidelines --\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis article is republished from \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThe Conversation\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E under a Creative Commons license. Read the \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/how-the-us-can-mine-its-own-critical-minerals-without-digging-new-holes-252609\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003Eoriginal article\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"full_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EEvery time you use your phone, open your computer or listen to your favorite music on AirPods, you are relying on critical minerals.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Every time you use your phone, open your computer or listen to your favorite music on AirPods, you are relying on critical minerals."}],"uid":"27469","created_gmt":"2025-05-06 13:09:51","changed_gmt":"2025-06-30 20:58:57","author":"Kristen Bailey","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-05-06T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-05-06T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677059":{"id":"677059","type":"image","title":"Piles of rare earth oxides praseodymium, cerium, lanthanum, neodymium, samarium and gadolinium. Peggy Greb\/USDA-ARS","body":"\u003Cp\u003EPiles of rare earth oxides praseodymium, cerium, lanthanum, neodymium, samarium and gadolinium. Peggy Greb\/USDA-ARS\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1747055486","gmt_created":"2025-05-12 13:11:26","changed":"1747055486","gmt_changed":"2025-05-12 13:11:26","alt":"Piles of rare earth oxides praseodymium, cerium, lanthanum, neodymium, samarium and gadolinium. Peggy Greb\/USDA-ARS","file":{"fid":"260922","name":"file-20250502-68-227u3q.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/05\/12\/file-20250502-68-227u3q.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/05\/12\/file-20250502-68-227u3q.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":302711,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/05\/12\/file-20250502-68-227u3q.jpg?itok=-pzKYg1o"}}},"media_ids":["677059"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/theconversation.com\/how-the-us-can-mine-its-own-critical-minerals-without-digging-new-holes-252609","title":"Read This Article on The Conversation"}],"groups":[{"id":"372221","name":"Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"},{"id":"1280","name":"Strategic Energy Institute"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188020","name":"go-rbi"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"}],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71911","name":"Earth and Environment"},{"id":"71881","name":"Science and Technology"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Ch5\u003EAuthor:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/profiles\/yuanzhi-tang-2349353\u0022\u003EYuanzhi Tang\u003C\/a\u003E, Professor of Biogeochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/theconversation.com\/profiles\/scott-mcwhorter-2349365\u0022\u003EScott McWhorter\u003C\/a\u003E, Distinguished Fellow in the Strategic Energy Institute, Georgia Institute of Technology\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch5\u003EMedia Contact:\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShelley Wunder-Smith\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:shelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003Eshelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"678781":{"#nid":"678781","#data":{"type":"news","title":"In a Very Close Galaxy: How Georgia Tech Researchers Use Earth Analogs to Understand Space","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe surface is covered with fine ash. The lava fields stretch for miles, punctuated only by basalt mountains. But life could be found here if you look hard enough.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis barren land isn\u0027t Mars or Pluto, but volcanic deserts in Iceland. The environment is so comparable to Mars\u0027 arid landscape that researchers can use it as an analog. From Earth, they can extrapolate how planets in our galaxy and beyond could sustain life and what tools humans might need to make homes on these planets.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech researchers explore everywhere from Oregon\u0027s mountaintops to Arizona\u0027s deserts to better understand space \u2014 and life on this planet.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/feature\/very-close-galaxy\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERead more \u00bb\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"From deserts in Arizona to salty lakes in Canada, these environments give scientists an idea of what Mars and Jupiter\u2019s moons might be like."}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe volcanic deserts in Iceland, covered in fine ash and basalt mountains, resemble Mars\u0027 landscape. Researchers use this environment to study how planets might sustain life and what tools humans would need for habitation. Georgia Tech researchers also explore various terrains in the U.S. to better understand space and life on Earth.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech researchers explore U.S. terrains to understand space and life on Earth."}],"uid":"27255","created_gmt":"2024-12-06 17:51:30","changed_gmt":"2025-06-30 16:06:57","author":"Josie Giles","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2024-12-10T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2024-12-10T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"675788":{"id":"675788","type":"image","title":"Frances2.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EStudents using handheld portable chemical analysis instrumentation analogous to those used on Mars.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1733507498","gmt_created":"2024-12-06 17:51:38","changed":"1733507498","gmt_changed":"2024-12-06 17:51:38","alt":"Students using handheld portable chemical analysis instrumentation analogous to those used on Mars.","file":{"fid":"259454","name":"Frances2.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2024\/12\/06\/Frances2.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2024\/12\/06\/Frances2.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":156652,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2024\/12\/06\/Frances2.jpg?itok=nfFpDNYq"}}},"media_ids":["675788"],"groups":[{"id":"1292","name":"Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience (IBB)"},{"id":"1188","name":"Research Horizons"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"193266","name":"cos-research"},{"id":"192252","name":"cos-planetary"},{"id":"187423","name":"go-bio"}],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"682918":{"#nid":"682918","#data":{"type":"news","title":"GTRI\u2019s Nanoparticle Technology Enhances Water Purification","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) has demonstrated that its nanoparticle technology improves efficiency and reduces waste in municipal wastewater treatment, ensuring safer discharge or reuse, with the potential to reduce operational energy costs.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn recent pilot tests conducted at the City of Woodstock\u2019s wastewater treatment plant in Georgia, GTRI\u2019s solution effectively removed pollutants, including suspended solids, organic waste, nitrogen and phosphorous species, while reducing chemical use and the amount of waste produced. The tests proved that the nanoparticles and key nutrients could be recovered and reused, and that the technology has potential to be implemented on a larger scale.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe were pleased with the results,\u201d said Jie Xu, a GTRI Regents\u2019 Researcher who is leading the project. \u201cCompared to traditional water treatment processes that require multiple steps, our approach streamlines the process and require less space, which speeds up the process efficiency significantly. Our system also removed contaminants without requiring additional chemicals, which was a huge cost-saving factor.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne major purpose of wastewater treatment is to remove contaminants from wastewater, making it safe to return to the environment or be reused. The process is crucial for protecting both public health and the environment by reducing the concentration of harmful pathogens such as bacteria and viruses along with removing toxic chemicals and heavy metals that can contaminate drinking water sources and pose health risks. Wastewater treatment also prevents excess nutrients, like nitrogen and phosphorus, from entering the environment, maintaining the health of water resources.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECurrent wastewater treatment uses chemicals for phosphorus reduction and to promote the clumping of fine particles, making it easier to remove contaminants from the wastewater. However, this process generates a byproduct called \u2018sludge,\u2019 which consists of organic matter, solids and microorganisms that remain after the water has been treated.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe main concern with sludge is its potential to contain harmful pollutants that pose risks to the environment and human health if not properly disposed of or handled.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cOne of the biggest issues in wastewater treatment is dealing with sludge,\u201d said Xu. \u201cRight now, sludge can be processed into biosolids for land applications for beneficial use including nutrient recycling and soil conditioning, but that process has come under scrutiny due to concerns about contaminants like PFAS, known as \u2018forever chemicals\u2019, and pathogens.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGTRI\u2019s nanoparticle technology uses tiny particles with magnetic properties that bind to and remove contaminants from water quickly and efficiently. This process reduces reliance on potentially harmful chemicals, lowers sludge production, and improves overall treatment effectiveness. In many cases, nanoparticles can be recovered and reused, further reducing costs.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMichael Rhoads, the plant manager at the Woodstock facility, expressed confidence that GTRI\u2019s nanoparticle technology could reduce excess chemical use, reducing costs for businesses and ultimately benefiting consumers.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cOur partnership with GTRI is huge for our industry and bridges the gap between the lab and actual everyday operations in leaps and bounds,\u201d Rhoads said.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe average cost of wastewater treatment in the U.S. can range from $2 to $5 per 1,000 gallons, depending on factors such as facility size, treatment methods, and local regulations, according to recent \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.waterandwastewater.com\/wastewater-treatment-cost\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Eestimates\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E. That would amount to costs as high as $5 million per year for an \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.energystar.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/tools\/DataTrends_Wastewater_20150129.pdf\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Eaverage-sized plant\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, and potentially much higher for larger facilities.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EXu said her team treated about one gallon of water per minute \u2013 and over 300 gallons per day \u2013 at the Woodstock facility. However, she noted that typical municipal wastewater treatment plants process millions of gallons per day.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELooking ahead, GTRI aims to scale up its water treatment to meet these requirements and expand its testing to industrial wastewater treatment facilities such as poultry processing plants and paper mills.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cMunicipal wastewater treatment is one application, but industrial wastewater treatment presents different challenges, so we want to validate our system in those settings as well,\u201d Xu said.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGTRI also partnered in this project with water treatment companies Xylem and EOM. The companies provided critical equipment for the pilot, specifically a dissolved air flotation unit that is widely used in wastewater treatment to separate pollutants from the water.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis pilot effort was supported by funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Georgia Research Alliance (GRA), building upon original research funded by GTRI\u2019s Agricultural Technology Research Program (ATRP).\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EATRP drives transformational innovation, developing new methods and systems specifically designed for poultry, agribusiness, and food manufacturing applications. These innovations are created to maximize productively and efficiency, advance safety and health, and minimize environmental impacts. ATRP\u2019s goal is to transition technologies from concept to commercialization as quickly and economically as possible.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EIn recent pilot tests conducted at the City of Woodstock\u2019s wastewater treatment plant in Georgia, GTRI\u2019s solution effectively removed pollutants, including suspended solids, organic waste, nitrogen and phosphorous species, while reducing chemical use and the amount of waste produced. The tests proved that the nanoparticles and key nutrients could be recovered and reused, and that the technology has potential to be implemented on a larger scale.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"GTRI has demonstrated that its nanoparticle technology improves efficiency and reduces waste in municipal wastewater treatment, ensuring safer discharge or reuse, with the potential to reduce operational energy costs."}],"uid":"35874","created_gmt":"2025-06-27 13:13:29","changed_gmt":"2025-06-27 13:16:47","author":"Anna Akins","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-06-27T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-06-27T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677301":{"id":"677301","type":"image","title":"The GTRI team from L to R: Undergraduate co-op students Kortney Martin and Austen Monteith; GTRI Principal Research Engineer Aklilu Giorges; GTRI Regents\u0027 Researcher and project lead Jie Xu.","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThe GTRI team pictured at the Woodstock wastewater treatment plant next to the dissolved air flotation unit it used to test its nanoparticle technology during a recent pilot test.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1751030031","gmt_created":"2025-06-27 13:13:51","changed":"1751030031","gmt_changed":"2025-06-27 13:13:51","alt":"A group of GTRI researchers pose for a photo at a test site. ","file":{"fid":"261186","name":"2025_0307_image_ATAS_Nanoparticle-Technology-Water-Purification_Woodstock_65.JPG","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/06\/27\/2025_0307_image_ATAS_Nanoparticle-Technology-Water-Purification_Woodstock_65.JPG","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/06\/27\/2025_0307_image_ATAS_Nanoparticle-Technology-Water-Purification_Woodstock_65.JPG","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":20276568,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/06\/27\/2025_0307_image_ATAS_Nanoparticle-Technology-Water-Purification_Woodstock_65.JPG?itok=5smoV2l8"}}},"media_ids":["677301"],"groups":[{"id":"1276","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI)"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[],"core_research_areas":[],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EMedia Inquiries: \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:gtri.media@gtri.gatech.edu\u0022\u003Egtri.media@gtri.gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWriter: Anna Akins \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:anna.akins@gtri.gatech.edu\u0022\u003Eanna.akins@gtri.gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"682916":{"#nid":"682916","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Hives Empowers Emerging Leaders to Tackle Future Challenges","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAt many organizations, junior employees are expected to observe, learn and follow, but rarely given the opportunity to lead and drive innovation.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) is reversing that trend through its Hives Early Career Independent Research and Development (IRAD) Program. Funded through GTRI\u2019s IRAD program, Hives equips researchers who are in their first six years of employment to lead projects focused on emerging technologies and security topics that have a national and global impact. Tenure-track assistant professors at the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) with less than six years of employment are also eligible to participate.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cEarly-stage researchers are GTRI\u2019s future, and I think it\u2019s important to encourage them to think beyond today\u2019s security threats and anticipate what\u2019s ahead,\u201d said Ben Riley, a GTRI principal research associate who is the program\u2019s founder and lead coordinator.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERiley joined GTRI in 2015 after a 30-year career in the U.S. Navy and holding senior leadership roles in the U.S. Department of Defense. He originally joined GTRI in 1998 after retiring from the Navy, left in 2002, and returned in 2015.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHe founded the Hives program in 2015 as a way for junior researchers to address national security challenges that don\u2019t yet have official requests or guidelines.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInterested participants who meet the employment requirements must first develop an original idea and submit a proposal before being accepted into the program.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERiley said strong proposals anticipate future technological and geopolitical threats, such as drones, AI applications and disinformation warfare, and develop innovative solutions to address them. The ultimate goal is for projects to be adopted by the Department of Defense or another government sponsor.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERiley encourages interested participants to be creative and share their ideas with him, adding with a smile: \u201cA couple of past participants have told me that when people have a crazy idea, they come to me because they know I\u2019ll listen to anything.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst-year participants receive $25,000 to develop their idea. Some of the most promising projects receive up to $40,000 to continue into the second year.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe first year is what I call \u2018starting an idea\u2019,\u201d said Riley. \u201cIt\u2019s a lot of literature review, exploring technologies, assessing feasibility, and building a plan based on your perspective. You might also begin some early fabrication or software development.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe second year is more about bringing that idea to life.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIt\u2019s about turning whatever you have envisioned in year one into something tangible you can see, touch or put on the table,\u201d Riley said.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EParticipants are encouraged to collaborate with other Hives members, GTRI laboratories and Georgia Tech faculty members as they develop their idea. \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGTRI Principal Research Engineer Christopher R. Valenta participated in Hives in 2015 during its inaugural year. Valenta began working at GTRI in 2008 as a graduate research assistant while earning his PhD in electrical and computer engineering at Georgia Tech. He graduated in 2014.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EValenta is currently an associate division chief in GTRI\u2019s Electro-Optical Systems Laboratory (EOSL) and an adjunct professor in Georgia Tech\u2019s School of Electrical and Computer Engineering. He has expertise in optics, electromagnetics, and signal progressing \u2013 applying these skillsets to optical and RF remote sensing and communications, including LiDAR.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EValenta\u2019s Hives project explored integrating smaller, more rugged optical detectors known as silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs) into airborne LiDAR systems to map underwater terrain \u2013 an advancement with important national security implications.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETheir compact design made it possible to mount the system on drones and deploy it more frequently, increasing flexibility and operational costs. By enhancing the ability to gather high-resolution underwater data from the air, this innovation strengthens national security efforts, including coastal mapping and maritime security.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt became the first known system of its kind and was incorporated into a major sponsored program.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeyond the technical expertise he gleaned, Valenta said Hives gave him his first chance to fully lead a project, which laid the groundwork for leading larger initiatives in the future.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cA lot of engineers tend to just focus on the technical side of a project, but Hives also teaches you how to manage a budget, communicate your vision for your project, and lead a team,\u201d Valenta said. \u201cHives gave me the first opportunity to do those things, so when I applied for bigger, more complex programs, I had some foundation to build off of.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELily Huff, a GTRI research engineer and current Hives participant, agreed.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe Hives program is one of the most applicable early career development programs I\u2019ve participated in,\u201d Huff said. \u201cIt has helped me learn how to manage a budget, lead a team and understand my own mentorship style in a low-pressure environment that has made stepping into larger projects feel less intimidating.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHuff began working at GTRI as a co-op student in 2019 while earning her bachelor\u2019s degree in mechanical engineering at Georgia Tech, graduating in 2021. She joined full-time in 2022 and now works in GTRI\u2019s Aerospace, Transportation \u0026amp; Advanced Systems Laboratory (ATAS), where she specializes in flight test engineering.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor her Hives project, Huff is working with the Army\u2019s Third Infantry Division (3ID) to develop an improved mobile manufacturing space \u2013 similar to a makerspace, but designed for field use.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMobile manufacturing spaces could enable real-time problem-solving and innovation on the battlefield, such as repairing or replacing broken equipment by 3D printing or machining parts on site, or customizing gear for local environments by adapting tools and attachments to better suit weather or terrain.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile still in development, Huff\u2019s research is already informing how 3ID\u2019s current systems are deployed and helping shape improvements for future use.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe project needs more time and funding, but it\u2019s helping inform how systems that are currently being deployed could be improved,\u201d she said.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEven though many Hives projects have been successful, Riley noted that success isn\u2019t the only measure of value.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cEven if a project fails, a big question for me is, what did the participants learn?\u201d he said.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGTRI\u2019s IRAD Program funds discretionary research across the Georgia Tech enterprise that addresses some of the most pressing challenges in national security, economic development, and the overall human condition. These projects extend GTRI\u2019s research base, sustain capability in critical research areas, foster exploration and innovation, and accelerate entry into emerging areas of interest to GTRI and our sponsors.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGTRI\u0027s Hives Early Career Independent Research and Development (IRAD) Program is funded through GTRI\u2019s IRAD program and equips researchers who are in their first six years of employment to lead projects focused on emerging technologies and security topics that have a national and global impact. Tenure-track assistant professors at Georgia Tech with less than six years of employment are also eligible to participate.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"GTRI\u0027s Hives Program equips researchers who are in their first six years of employment to lead projects focused on emerging technologies and security topics that have a national and global impact. "}],"uid":"35874","created_gmt":"2025-06-27 12:57:35","changed_gmt":"2025-06-27 13:12:01","author":"Anna Akins","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-06-27T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-06-27T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677300":{"id":"677300","type":"image","title":"GTRI Principal Research Engineer Christopher R. Valenta (left) participated in Hives in 2015 during its inaugural year and GTRI Research Engineer Lily Huff (right) is a current participant. ","body":"\u003Cp\u003EPast and current Hives participants said the program has sharpened their technical acumen and prepared them to manage higher-stakes projects at GTRI.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1751029064","gmt_created":"2025-06-27 12:57:44","changed":"1751029064","gmt_changed":"2025-06-27 12:57:44","alt":"Two GTRI researchers pose for a photo outside of a GTRI facility. ","file":{"fid":"261185","name":"2025_0520_image_HIVES_Chris-Valenta-and-Lily-Huff_Baker-Building_01--1-.JPG","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/06\/27\/2025_0520_image_HIVES_Chris-Valenta-and-Lily-Huff_Baker-Building_01--1-.JPG","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/06\/27\/2025_0520_image_HIVES_Chris-Valenta-and-Lily-Huff_Baker-Building_01--1-.JPG","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":14071049,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/06\/27\/2025_0520_image_HIVES_Chris-Valenta-and-Lily-Huff_Baker-Building_01--1-.JPG?itok=rdpCPrO9"}}},"media_ids":["677300"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/gtri.gatech.edu\/newsroom\/gtris-hives-program-empowers-emerging-leaders-tackle-future-challenges","title":""}],"groups":[{"id":"1276","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI)"}],"categories":[{"id":"194606","name":"Artificial Intelligence"},{"id":"145","name":"Engineering"},{"id":"147","name":"Military Technology"},{"id":"194610","name":"National Interests\/National Security"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"152","name":"Robotics"},{"id":"194612","name":"Workforce Development"}],"keywords":[],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"193653","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute"},{"id":"39481","name":"National Security"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EMedia inquiries: \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:gtri.media@gtri.gatech.edu\u0022\u003Egtri.media@gtri.gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWriter: Anna Akins \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:anna.akins@gtri.gatech.edu\u0022\u003Eanna.akins@gtri.gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["gtri.media@gtri.gatech.edu","anna.akins@gtri.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"682915":{"#nid":"682915","#data":{"type":"news","title":"How MGRP Develops Mission-Ready Leaders","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EFrom using machine learning to scan military runways for damage, to modernizing helicopter communications and deploying nuclear power units for disaster relief \u2013 all while earning a STEM master\u2019s degree \u2013 this year\u2019s Military Graduate Research Program (MGRP) cohort at the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) took on defense challenges with real-world impact.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMGRP offers U.S military personnel the opportunity to conduct Department of Defense-related part-time research in a GTRI lab while simultaneously obtaining a master\u0027s degree in a science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM)-related program at the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech).\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe cohort consists of 9 officers \u2013 five from the U.S. Air Force, three from the U.S. Navy and one from the U.S. Space Force \u2013 who are working in four of the eight GTRI labs. That brings the participation total in the program up to 38 since its inception in fall 2020.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMGRP funds its graduate degree program through Georgia Tech\u0027s Graduate Student Tuition Remission Plan (GSTRP). Throughout the program, each participant serves as a military graduate research assistant (MGRA), which is the equivalent of a graduate research assistant or graduate teaching assistant (GRA\/GTA). GTRI covers associated degree fees. Some tuition and fees are also waived due to the MGRA\u0027s military status. Book expenses are the MGRA\u0027s responsibility.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMGRP Chair Mario Mifsud, who serves as the associate lab director of GTRI\u0027s Electro-Optical Systems Laboratory (EOSL), called the program a win-win for all the involved parties, allowing service members to solve applied engineering problems on sponsored, real-world DoD-related projects while providing GTRI with top talent.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022People say there is no free lunch,\u0022 Mifsud said. \u0022But in this program, there is. All of the players, all of the stakeholders, get something more economically than they would if they were doing things on their own.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne member of the current cohort is Ryan Luetjen, a future submariner who graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2024. Over the past year, he has worked in EOSL while simultaneously obtaining his master\u2019s degree in electrical and computer engineering at Tech.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELuetjen is set to graduate from Georgia Tech this summer and will then attend the Nuclear Power Training Unit (NPTU) in Charleston, South Carolina. NPTU Charleston is a technical school that trains personnel for shipboard nuclear power plant operation and maintenance.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHe chose to participate in MGRP to gain additional hands-on experience and classroom training before starting submarine school.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cI was in a good place at the Naval Academy where I could pursue grad school, and figured I might as well do it while I\u2019m still in school mode,\u201d Luetjen said. \u201cMGRP has allowed me to apply concepts from my graduate program to my research while also giving me a comprehensive understanding of how the technologies we develop are integrated into the military before I enter the fleet.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELuetjen\u2019s research project explores using drones and LiDAR technology to scan damaged military runways and then applies machine learning to analyze the data and assess the extent of the damage.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIt\u2019s been great to take what I\u2019ve learned from my undergrad and grad studies and apply it in a hands-on way,\u201d he said.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHelen Works and Mihiri Fernando are two other cohort members and recent graduates of the U.S. Air Force Academy. Works is a civil engineer in the Air Force and is conducting research in GTRI\u2019s Advanced Concepts Laboratory (ACL). She is set to graduate with her master\u2019s in nuclear engineering from Tech in December. Fernando is working in the Applied Systems Laboratory (ASL) at GTRI and earning her master\u2019s in computational science and engineering, with graduation also in December.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWorks\u2019 research has focused on developing a basemat to support a deployable microreactor \u2013 a nuclear reactor designed to fit in a shipping container and provide power in remote or disaster-stricken areas. The base mat serves two key purposes: to stabilize the reactor on uneven terrain and to shield the ground from radiation.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter graduation, Works will receive her station assignment for the Air Force and is eager to apply the nuclear energy research she conducted through MGRP.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cI would love to take what I learned here and advance the future of reactor technology, whether within the Air Force, in a lab or with a private nuclear company,\u201d Works said.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOnce Fernando graduates, she plans to attend Undergraduate Pilot Training, which is a rigorous year-long program that trains newly commissioned Air Force officers to become military pilots.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe start out flying trainer aircraft, but my ultimate goal is to fly bombers, ideally the B-1 or B-2,\u201d Fernando said. \u201cI\u2019m very excited for that and to apply what I\u2019ve been learning here at Georgia Tech and GTRI.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt GTRI, Fernando has been contributing to a project aimed at upgrading the communication systems of the U.S. Army\u2019s CH-47 Chinook helicopters, specifically replacing outdated and unsupported hardware with new radio controls, cryptographic systems and tactical communication equipment.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShe said the most rewarding part of her research has been watching everything come together over just a few months.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWhen I started in the fall, the size and complexity of these projects felt overwhelming,\u201d she said. \u201cBut now, I\u2019m at the point where I understand how everything fits together and it\u2019s been exciting to contribute to that. For example, seeing something go from an Excel sheet to an actual program has been really fun.\u201d\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll three cohort members agreed that transitioning from the structure and discipline of their military academies to part-time research and grad school, where they have more flexibility over their time, has been an adjustment.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut they said MGRP has equipped them with the critical thinking, strategic planning and problem-solving skills needed to succeed in their next phase of their careers.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cGTRI has provided us with a lot of support through MGRP; it\u2019s been a rewarding experience,\u201d Luetjen said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe MGRP selection process has three components.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst, the military officer must apply to a service sponsoring program, and the program must put the individual on active duty, Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders to the Atlanta area to participate in MGRP. At the same time, candidates apply to the Georgia Tech STEM graduate degree program of their choice and must be accepted into their desired program to be eligible to participate. Thirdly, candidates must fill out an MGRP program application, which is available on GTRI\u0027s MGRP webpage.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOnce these three steps are completed, the candidate\u2019s application package is forwarded to the GTRI labs, divisions, and branches that best align with the candidate\u2019s graduate degree program and research area(s) of interest.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELab placements represent a best fit and many participants receive more than one offer from within the different GTRI labs.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the fall semester, the MGRP is adding support for a new role, the Military Affiliated Researcher (MAR).\u0026nbsp;This category of MGRP student comes to Georgia Tech with their degree program already funded, but still elects to work at GTRI to gain research experience.\u0026nbsp; MARs also have their pay and allowances covered by their military service, so they are zero cost to GTRI and the project sponsor.\u0026nbsp; The program is tracking to have three MARs onboard in the fall cohort.\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition to spreading the word about GTRI\u0027s science and engineering expertise, MGRP builds a lifelong bond with service members and further strengthens GTRI\u0027s relationship with the military \u2013 for whom much of its work is dedicated.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you are interested in learning more about MGRP, please visit: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/gtri.gatech.edu\/outreach\/mgrp\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMilitary Graduate Research Program | GTRI\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGTRI is proud to host nine U.S. military officers in its latest Military Graduate Research Program (MGRP) cohort \u2013 bringing total participation to 38 since the program launched in 2020. MGRP enables U.S. service members to conduct part-time Department of Defense research in GTRI labs while earning a master\u2019s degree in a STEM-related field at Georgia Tech.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"This year\u0027s Military Graduate Research Program (MGRP) cohort at GTRI took on defense challenges with real-world impact. "}],"uid":"35874","created_gmt":"2025-06-27 12:37:00","changed_gmt":"2025-06-27 13:10:37","author":"Anna Akins","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2025-06-27T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2025-06-27T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"677299":{"id":"677299","type":"image","title":"Current MGRP cohort members from L to R: Helen Works (Air Force), Ryan Luetjen (U.S Navy) and Mihiri Fernando (U.S. Air Force).","body":"\u003Cp\u003EMembers of GTRI\u0027s latest MGRP cohort said the program has equipped them with the critical thinking, strategic planning and problem-solving skills needed to succeed in the next phase of their careers.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1751028699","gmt_created":"2025-06-27 12:51:39","changed":"1751028699","gmt_changed":"2025-06-27 12:51:39","alt":"Three members of GTRI\u0027s latest cohort pose for a photo. ","file":{"fid":"261184","name":"2025_0617_image_MGRP_GTRI-HQ_04.JPG","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/06\/27\/2025_0617_image_MGRP_GTRI-HQ_04_2.JPG","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2025\/06\/27\/2025_0617_image_MGRP_GTRI-HQ_04_2.JPG","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":13829524,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2025\/06\/27\/2025_0617_image_MGRP_GTRI-HQ_04_2.JPG?itok=c5iWo7LF"}}},"media_ids":["677299"],"related_links":[{"url":"entity:node\/682915","title":""},{"url":"https:\/\/gtri.gatech.edu\/outreach\/mgrp","title":""}],"groups":[{"id":"1276","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI)"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"145","name":"Engineering"},{"id":"147","name":"Military Technology"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"191147","name":"MGRP"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"193653","name":"Georgia Tech Research Institute"},{"id":"39481","name":"National Security"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EMedia Inquiries: \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:gtri.media@gtri.gatech.edu\u0022\u003Egtri.media@gtri.gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EWriter: Anna Akins \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:anna.akins@gtri.gatech.edu\u0022\u003Eanna.akins@gtri.gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["gtri.media@gtri.gatech.edu","anna.akins@gtri.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"676296":{"#nid":"676296","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Georgia Tech Leads Department of Energy\u2019s Earthshots Funding with Seven Projects","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech faculty and researchers are involved in five university-led projects and two new Energy Earthshot Research Centers that are part of a $264 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The funding includes establishing 11 new Energy Earthshot Research Centers (EERC) led by DOE\u2019s national labs and 18 university research teams addressing one or more of DOE\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.energy.gov\/policy\/energy-earthshots-initiative\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EEnergy Earthshots\u003C\/a\u003E initiatives focused on industrial decarbonization, carbon storage and removal, offshore wind, and more.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EUniversity Projects\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUniversity research teams will conduct crosscutting, fundamental research to address knowledge gaps that limit achievement of the Energy Earthshots goals. These teams are focused on scientific challenges spanning the Office of Science research portfolio and complement work done by the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/science.osti.gov\/Initiatives\/SCEarthshots\/EERCs\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EEERCs\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/node\/18414\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022node\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022c51b9496-49ec-4ffc-95d1-ccc3f5326381\u0022 data-entity-substitution=\u0022canonical\u0022\u003EAkanksha Menon\u003C\/a\u003E, assistant professor in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EGeorge W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E, has been awarded $3 million in funding to lead a university project titled \u201cUnderstanding Thermo-Chemo-Mechanical Transformations in Thermal Energy Storage Materials and Composites.\u201d The project will bring together\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022\/node\/2861\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022node\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022683823b0-aa42-4967-9fce-c6c533d7aedb\u0022 data-entity-substitution=\u0022canonical\u0022\u003EMatthew McDowell\u003C\/a\u003E, associate professor in the Woodruff School;\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022\/node\/4534\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022node\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u00226ea7599d-4726-4f8f-b92c-7a695ad12d87\u0022 data-entity-substitution=\u0022canonical\u0022\u003EClaudio Di Leo\u003C\/a\u003E, assistant professor in the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ae.gatech.edu\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EDaniel Guggenheim School of Aerospace Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E;\u0026nbsp;and Jeff Urban from the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.lbl.gov\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ELawrence Berkeley National Laboratory\u003C\/a\u003E to provide a fundamental understanding of the coupled thermo-chemo-mechanical phenomena in thermal energy storage materials that will enable low-cost and stable storage.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/node\/3787\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022node\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u002215f0df46-64d1-4611-8460-574772093d19\u0022 data-entity-substitution=\u0022canonical\u0022\u003EAnnalisa Bracco\u003C\/a\u003E, professor and associate chair; Taka Ito, professor; and \u003Ca href=\u0022\/node\/19413\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022node\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022428c9b5c-6e4c-483c-8c65-4fbea7763fed\u0022 data-entity-substitution=\u0022canonical\u0022\u003EChris Reinhard\u003C\/a\u003E, Georgia Power Chair and associate professor \u2014 all from the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/eas.gatech.edu\/home\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ESchool of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences\u003C\/a\u003E \u2014 will join colleagues from Princeton, Texas A\u0026amp;M, and Yale University for an $8 million Earthshot project that will build an \u201cend-to-end framework\u201d for studying the impact of carbon dioxide (CO2) removal efforts. The project, titled \u201cCarbon dioxide removal and high-performance computing: Planetary Boundaries of Earth Shots,\u201d includes creating computer models to measure how well CO2 removal techniques work on land, rivers, and oceans.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/node\/19414\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022node\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u00221fd1b49b-b4d2-4273-a274-d43a41887fe5\u0022 data-entity-substitution=\u0022canonical\u0022\u003EElizabeth Qian\u003C\/a\u003E, assistant professor in the Guggenheim School and the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cse.gatech.edu\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ESchool of Computational Science and Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E, will join colleagues from New York University, Los Alamos National Lab, and National Renewable Energy Lab for an Earthshot project titled \u201cLearning reduced models under extreme data conditions for design and rapid decision-making in complex systems (\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/rome.cims.nyu.edu\/team\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EROME\u003C\/a\u003E).\u201d The project will develop mathematical foundations and computational methods to support the design and operation of complex systems for carbon removal and renewable energy generation that will be used for simulation, design, and decision-making of the Floating Offshore Wind Shot and the Carbon Negative Shot EERCs.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/node\/19415\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022node\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u00224c64fc57-f686-499c-bb68-ac19f5e47f1c\u0022 data-entity-substitution=\u0022canonical\u0022\u003EDavid Flaherty\u003C\/a\u003E, professor in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.chbe.gatech.edu\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ESchool of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E will join colleagues from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Northern Arizona University, Texas State University, and Argonne National Lab to co-lead a project titled \u201cHarnessing Electrostatics for the Conversion of Organics, Water and Air: Driving Redox on Particulate Liquids Earthshot (DROPLETS).\u201d The overall objective of DROPLETS is to explore an approach based on microdroplet-enabled redox reactions (which involve the transfer of electrons between substances) toward H2 production (a clean and renewable energy source), CO2 activation (which can help mitigate greenhouse gas emissions), and the synthesis of redox species for long-duration energy storage.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/node\/19416\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022node\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u00228901883b-0739-4060-98d2-b79946eaa0ac\u0022 data-entity-substitution=\u0022canonical\u0022\u003EGuoxiang (Emma) Hu\u003C\/a\u003E, assistant professor in the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.mse.gatech.edu\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ESchool of Materials Science and Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E, joins colleagues from Georgia State University, Carnegie Melon University, Oak Ridge National Lab, and the University of Utah on a project titled \u201cAtomic Level Compositional Complexity for Electrocatalysis (Atomic-C2E).\u201d Atomic-C2E will integrate fundamental electrochemistry, quantum chemical and multiscale simulations, and materials chemistry to develop an understanding of electrocatalysts that aid in the conversion of CO2 into value-added chemical fuels and hydrogen production via water electrolysis \u2014 and address technological bottlenecks challenging them.\u003Cbr\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ENational Lab Centers\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe DOE national lab EERCs will bring together multi-institutional, multidisciplinary teams to perform energy-relevant research with a scope and complexity beyond what is possible in standard single-investigator or small-group awards. Addressing key research challenges relevant to the Energy Earthshots, the 11 new centers will be housed at eight DOE national laboratories and will receive a combined $195 million over four years.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOf the 11 lab centers, the DEGradation Reactions in Electrothermal Energy Storage (DEGREES) center led by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory consists of Professor Akanksha Menon and Associate Professor \u003Ca href=\u0022\/node\/4013\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022node\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u002245e30fac-8b99-43d4-80c8-09ed516f7d06\u0022 data-entity-substitution=\u0022canonical\u0022\u003EShannon Yee\u003C\/a\u003E from the Woodruff School. DEGREES is an EERC that will provide fundamental understanding of the science behind complex degradation mechanisms and instabilities that affect the performance of thermal energy storage.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ENon-Equilibrium Energy Transfer for Efficient Reactions (NEETER) is the second EERC that will be housed at the Department of Energy\u0027s Oak Ridge National Laboratory (\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.ornl.gov\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EORNL\u003C\/a\u003E) and involves Georgia Tech. Led by \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.ornl.gov\/staff-profile\/david-s-sholl\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EDavid Sholl\u003C\/a\u003E, director of ORNL\u2019s transformational decarbonization initiative and professor in the School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NEETER is focused on developing chemical processes that use sustainable methods instead of burning fossil fuels to radically reduce industrial greenhouse gas emissions to stem climate change and limit the crisis of a rapidly warming planet.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EAbout DOE\u2019s Energy Earthshots Initiative\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Department of Energy launched the Energy Earthshots Initiative to spur decarbonization efforts that will help the United States meet climate and clean energy goals. The initiative connects DOE\u2019s basic science and energy technology offices to accelerate innovations toward more abundant, affordable, and reliable clean energy solutions; seeks to revolutionize many sectors across the United States; and will rely on fundamental science and innovative technology to be successful.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ch5\u003EProfessor Elizabeth Qian will Serve as Co-PI on DoE Energy Earthshots Project \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cimg src=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/floating-offshore-wind-shot-b.png\u0022 alt=\u0022Floating Offshore Wind Shot\u2122 decorative icon\u0022 width=\u0022200\u0022 height=\u0022169\u0022\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EQian will develop computing methods to support design and operation of complex systems for carbon removal and renewable energy generation.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ae.gatech.edu\/news\/2023\/10\/professor-elizabeth-qian-will-serve-co-pi-doe-energy-earthshots-project\u0022\u003EFull story\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ch5\u003EThree Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Researchers Awarded DOE Earthshot Funding for Carbon Removal Strategies\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cimg src=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/carbon-negative-shot-b.png\u0022 alt=\u0022Carbon Negative Shot\u2122 decorative icon\u0022 width=\u0022200\u0022 height=\u0022200\u0022\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBracco, Ito, and Reinhard will create computer models to measure how well CO2 removal techniques work on land, rivers, and oceans, as part of $264 million in grants.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cos.gatech.edu\/news\/three-earth-and-atmospheric-sciences-researchers-awarded-doe-earthshot-funding-carbon-removal\u0022\u003EFull story\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ch5\u003EAssistant Professor Akanksha Menon Awarded $3 Million for Research as part of DOE\u0027s Energy Earthshots Initiative\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cimg src=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/long-duration-storage-shot-b.png\u0022 alt=\u0022Long Duration Storage Shot\u2122 decorative icon\u0022 width=\u0022200\u0022 height=\u0022200\u0022\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMenon and her team will address two Energy Earthshots to help achieve net-zero carbon by 2050, combat climate crisis.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/me.gatech.edu\/news\/assistant-professor-akanksha-menon-awarded-3-million-research-part-does-energy-earthshotstm\u0022\u003EFull story\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ch5\u003EProfessor David Sholl Leading New Energy Earthshot Research Center to Stem Climate Change\u003C\/h5\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cimg src=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/cleanfuel-products-shot-b.png\u0022 alt=\u0022Carbon Negative Shot\u2122 decorative icon\u0022 width=\u0022200\u0022 height=\u0022134\u0022\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Department of Energy also selected David Flaherty to co-lead a second project designed to lower energy input and reactor cost for complex chemical reactions.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/chbe.gatech.edu\/news\/2023\/10\/professor-david-sholl-leading-new-energy-earthshot-research-center-stem-climate-change\u0022\u003EFull story\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWriter and Media Contact:\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EPriya Devarajan | \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003Epriya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu\u003C\/a\u003E \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"Projects address basic research challenges facing the Energy Earthshots Initiative to mitigate climate change and reach a net-zero carbon economy."}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech faculty and researchers are involved in five university-led projects and two new Energy Earthshot Research Centers that are part of a $264 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The funding includes establishing 11 new Energy Earthshot Research Centers (EERC) led by DOE\u2019s national labs and 18 university research teams addressing one or more of DOE\u2019s Energy Earthshots initiatives focused on industrial decarbonization, carbon storage and removal, offshore wind, and more.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech faculty and researchers are involved in five university-led projects and two new Energy Earthshot Research Centers that are part of a $264 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The funding includes establishing 11 new Energy"}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2024-08-27 19:02:52","changed_gmt":"2025-06-18 16:21:33","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2023-11-09T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2023-11-09T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"674738":{"id":"674738","type":"image","title":"earthshot-group-1c.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EMatthew McDowell, Akanksha Menon, and Claudio Di Leo\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1724785390","gmt_created":"2024-08-27 19:03:10","changed":"1724785390","gmt_changed":"2024-08-27 19:03:10","alt":"Matthew McDowell, Akanksha Menon, and Claudio Di Leo","file":{"fid":"258298","name":"earthshot-group-1c.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2024\/08\/27\/earthshot-group-1c.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2024\/08\/27\/earthshot-group-1c.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":358094,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2024\/08\/27\/earthshot-group-1c.jpg?itok=LTibE6Io"}}},"media_ids":["674738"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:priya.devarajan@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EPriya Devarajan\u003C\/a\u003E, Communications Manager, SEI \u0026amp; RBI\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"635303":{"#nid":"635303","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Brown, Engle, Nemirovski Elected to National Academy of Sciences","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EScientific endeavors across Georgia Tech are broad, deep, and varied \u2014 a fact underscored last week when the \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/www.nasonline.org\/news-and-multimedia\/news\/2020-nas-election.html\u0022\u003ENational Academy of Sciences announced three Tech scholars among its newest members.\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.iac.gatech.edu\/news-events\/stories\/2020\/4\/marilyn-brown-elected-national-academy-sciences\/634835\u0022\u003EMarilyn Brown\u003C\/a\u003E is one of the nation\u2019s top analysts of clean energy policy; Randall Engle is a leader in understanding individual differences in memory and attention; and Arkadi Nemirovski has helped shape the field of continuous optimization.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEach now joins an elite group of the nation\u2019s foremost scientists in a historic moment for the Institute: It\u2019s the first time three scientists from Tech have been elected to the Academy in a single year.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe election of Georgia Tech faculty members from across multiple disciplines into the National Academy of Sciences is extraordinary,\u201d said Rafael L.\u0026nbsp;Bras, provost, executive vice president for Academic Affairs, and K. Harrison Brown Family Chair. \u201cWe are incredibly proud and congratulate Professors Brown, Engle, and Nemirovski on this well-deserved honor. This distinction is a testament to their significant contributions and an honor that recognizes that critical research happens at the intersection of disciplines.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EElection to the \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/www.nasonline.org\/\u0022\u003ENational Academy of Sciences\u003C\/a\u003E is among the highest honors a scientist can receive, recognizing \u201cdistinguished and continuing achievements in original research,\u201d as the Academy puts it. It has been reserved for just 2,403 people in the United States. Nominations for new members can come only from current Academy members.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIn the hierarchy of scientific acknowledgment, the only things higher are the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Nobel Prize,\u201d said \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/psychology.gatech.edu\/people\/faculty\/340\u0022\u003EEngle, professor in the School of Psychology.\u003C\/a\u003E \u201cIn my wildest dreams, I never imagined it for myself.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEngle studies the nature of working memory and its relationship to attention control. At its most basic, his work focuses on how people differ in their ability to concentrate on a single task. Understanding these differences helps us understand why individuals\u2019 cognitive performance varies.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEngle came to Georgia Tech in 1995 to lead the School of Psychology. After 13 years, he stepped down to create the Georgia State University\/Georgia Tech Center for Advanced Brain Imaging. His work has been influential in social and developmental psychology, emotion, and psychopathology, among other areas. He is a fellow of the American Psychological Association and the American Association for the Advancement of Science.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cI don\u2019t know of any successful scientists who do what we do for the glory. We are driven by questions and are so fortunate to have jobs where people actually pay us to spend our lives looking through the metaphorical microscope,\u201d Engle said. \u201cAt the same time, we all love having our work acknowledged and respected by our scientific heroes. That is what this feels like: People who I have read about in my field since I was an undergraduate are saying that my work has value.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELike Engle, Nemirovski expressed surprise at his election to the Academy, despite more than five decades of contributions to optimization theory and algorithms.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWhile I respect my professional achievements, I do not value them as matching the honor,\u201d said Nemirovski, who came to Georgia Tech in 2005 and is the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.isye.gatech.edu\/users\/arkadi-nemirovski\u0022\u003EJohn Hunter Chair and Professor in the H. Milton Stewart School of Industrial and Systems Engineering.\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYet he is credited with several significant achievements in the field of convex optimization \u2014 the Ellipsoid algorithm (with D. Yudin), mirror descent, interior point methods for nonlinear convex problems (with Y. Nesterov), and robust optimization (with A. Ben-Tal) \u2014 and in non-parametric statistics (with A. Juditsky).\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn fact, Nemirovski credited his collaborators with helping him build an impactful career.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe excellent professional training I got under supervision of Professor Eugene Shilov at the Department of Mechanics and Mathematics of Moscow State University, and the honor and privilege to communicate and, in many cases, to collaborate with outstanding colleagues \u2014 Boris Polyak, Rafail Khasminskii, Yuri Nesterov, Aharon Ben-Tal, Anatoli Iouditski, Alexander Shapiro, David Donoho, Stephen Boyd \u2014 their influence made me what I am as a professional,\u201d he said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENemirovski also is a fellow of the National Academy of Engineering and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBrown has established herself as an international leader in the analysis of clean energy policies. She\u2019s a pioneer in incorporating behavioral and social science principles into complex energy-engineering models that are used to evaluate policy proposals and to assess opportunities such as the size of the energy-efficiency gap in the United States.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShe developed an approach as a regulator of the Tennessee Valley Authority that characterizes energy efficiency in terms of a power plant \u2014 in essence, the size, cost, and reliability of the plant that would not have to be built if companies took steps to conserve energy. She also developed carbon accounting methods at Georgia Tech that were applied to the first carbon footprint assessments of the nation\u2019s largest 100 metropolitan areas.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cBeing elected to the National Academy of Sciences is a great honor,\u201d said \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.iac.gatech.edu\/people\/faculty\/brown\u0022\u003EBrown, Regents Professor and Brook Byers Professor in Sustainable Systems in the School of Public Policy.\u003C\/a\u003E \u201cIt is also a great testament to the outstanding faculty and students across Georgia Tech, who are fostering the kind of sustainable energy systems and policies that will help the world step back from the brink of climate disaster.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBrown arrived at Georgia Tech in 2006 after establishing herself at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory as a national leader in the analysis and interpretation of energy futures in the United States. A year later, she and her co-authors won the Nobel Peace Prize for their work on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Working Group III Assessment Report on Mitigation of Climate Change.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEarlier this year, Brown also was elected to the National Academy of Engineering.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cColleagues like Professors Brown, Engle, and Nemirovski are what makes Georgia Tech such a special place,\u201d Bras said. \u201cThey are true scholars and dedicated teachers, and they are examples to their students, their friends, and colleagues. We all rejoice with them.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EBrook Byers Professor, Marilyn Brown is among 3 Georgia Tech faculty elected to the National Academy of Sciences. Election to the Academy is among the highest honors a scientist can achieve.\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n\r\n\u003Cp\u003EScientific endeavors across Georgia Tech are broad, deep, and varied \u0026mdash; a fact underscored last week when the \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/www.nasonline.org\/news-and-multimedia\/news\/2020-nas-election.html\u0022\u003ENational Academy of Sciences announced three Tech scholars among its newest members.\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.iac.gatech.edu\/news-events\/stories\/2020\/4\/marilyn-brown-elected-national-academy-sciences\/634835\u0022\u003EMarilyn Brown\u003C\/a\u003E is one of the nation\u0026rsquo;s top analysts of clean energy policy; Randall Engle is a leader in understanding individual differences in memory and attention; and Arkadi Nemirovski has helped shape the field of continuous optimization. Each now joins an elite group of the nation\u0026rsquo;s foremost scientists in a historic moment for the Institute: It\u0026rsquo;s the first time three scientists from Tech have been elected to the Academy in a single year.\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n\r\n\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sustainable.gatech.edu\/bigideas\/brown-engle-nemirovski-elected-national-academy-sciences\u0022\u003ERead More...\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\r\n","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Election to the Academy is among the highest honors a scientist can achieve."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2020-05-12 16:06:19","changed_gmt":"2025-06-18 16:20:23","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2020-05-08T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2020-05-08T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"635231":{"id":"635231","type":"image","title":"2020 NAS Members: Randall Engle, Arkadi Nemirovski, Marilyn Brown","body":null,"created":"1588957715","gmt_created":"2020-05-08 17:08:35","changed":"1588957715","gmt_changed":"2020-05-08 17:08:35","alt":"Randall Engle, Arkadi Nemirovksi, and Marilyn Brown, who were elected to the National Academy of Sciences in 2020.","file":{"fid":"241717","name":"NAS-Members-2020-Engle-Nemirovski-Brown-combo.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/NAS-Members-2020-Engle-Nemirovski-Brown-combo.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/NAS-Members-2020-Engle-Nemirovski-Brown-combo.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":307836,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/images\/NAS-Members-2020-Engle-Nemirovski-Brown-combo.jpg?itok=jCR3P8mc"}}},"media_ids":["635231"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.iac.gatech.edu\/people\/faculty\/brown","title":"Marilyn Brown"},{"url":"https:\/\/psychology.gatech.edu\/people\/faculty\/340","title":"Randall Engle"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.isye.gatech.edu\/users\/arkadi-nemirovski","title":"Arkadi Nemirovsky"},{"url":"http:\/\/www.nasonline.org\/","title":"National Academy of Sciences"}],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[{"id":"134","name":"Student and Faculty"}],"keywords":[{"id":"166871","name":"bbiss_big_ideas"},{"id":"330","name":"Marilyn Brown"},{"id":"8342","name":"Arkadi Nemirovski"},{"id":"76091","name":"Randall Engle"},{"id":"167015","name":"National Academy of Science"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71871","name":"Campus and Community"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:jstewart@gatech.edu\u0022\u003EJoshua Stewart\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E404.894.6016\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["jstewart@gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"625231":{"#nid":"625231","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Alliance to Save Energy Honors Brook Byers Professor Marilyn Brown","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.ase.org\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EThe Alliance to Save Energy (ASE)\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;has named Georgia Tech School of Public Policy Professor Marilyn Brown as a recipient of the 2019 Charles H. Percy Award for Public Service. The ASE presents this award to individuals for outstanding public service in energy efficiency. Recipients promote innovative solutions that lower consumers\u2019 energy bills while helping energy companies to reduce capital requirements and increase system utilization.\u0026nbsp; Professor Brown is no exception in this regard. She has published ground-breaking research on the integration of energy efficiency and demand response resources. She directed Oak Ridge National Lab\u2019s efficiency and renewables program and was a two-term presidential appointee to Tennessee Valley Authority\u2019s Board of Directors, where she promoted the concept of energy efficiency as a virtual power plant.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAn awards gala (https:\/\/www.ase.org\/events\/2019-evening-stars-energy-efficiency-awards-gala) will be held in Washington, D.C. on September 19, 2019, with more than 400 energy efficiency executives, advocates, and government officials. \u201cWe\u2019re honoring the leaders who spurred decades of energy efficiency gains, together with those making aggressive energy-saving advances today,\u201d said the ASE\u2019s President Jason Hartke. \u201cWithout these awardees\u2019 leadership, we\u2019d be using and paying for more energy unnecessarily every day.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe other four Percy Award recipients are: \u0026nbsp;Ralph Cavanagh and Kit Kennedy, of the Climate \u0026amp; Clean Energy Program at the Natural Resources Defense Council; Clark Gellings, from Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI); and Stephen Wiel, former Nevada utility commissioner, founder and chair of the NARUC Conservation Committee, and Head of the Energy Analysis Department at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFounded in 1977 by Sens. Charles H. Percy (R-Ill.) and Hubert Humphrey (D-Minn.), the Alliance to Save Energy was launched following the oil embargo of the 1970\u2019s \u2013 a pivotal time in our nation\u2019s history that exposed fundamental weaknesses in our nation\u2019s economic security and challenged us to develop innovate energy solutions. The ASE is a nonprofit, bipartisan alliance of business, government, environmental and consumer leaders with a mission to promote energy productivity worldwide \u2013 including through energy efficiency \u2013 to achieve a stronger economy, a cleaner environment and greater energy security, affordability and reliability.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EProf. Brown is a recipient of the 2019 Charles H. Percy Award for Public Service.\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Prof. Brown is a recipient of the 2019 Charles H. Percy Award for Public Service."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2019-08-27 17:24:41","changed_gmt":"2025-06-18 16:19:26","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2019-08-27T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2019-08-27T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"617552":{"id":"617552","type":"image","title":"Marilyn Brown","body":null,"created":"1549654607","gmt_created":"2019-02-08 19:36:47","changed":"1549654607","gmt_changed":"2019-02-08 19:36:47","alt":"","file":{"fid":"235058","name":"Brown Portrait High Res 2018.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/Brown%20Portrait%20High%20Res%202018.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/Brown%20Portrait%20High%20Res%202018.png","mime":"image\/png","size":1084696,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/images\/Brown%20Portrait%20High%20Res%202018.png?itok=xDn4Rjz4"}}},"media_ids":["617552"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[{"id":"132","name":"Institute Leadership"}],"keywords":[{"id":"330","name":"Marilyn Brown"},{"id":"166870","name":"BBISS_news"},{"id":"182159","name":"Alliance to Save Energy"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@sustainable.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Communications Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@sustainable.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"603619":{"#nid":"603619","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Valerie Thomas Honored with Class of 1934 Outstanding Interdisciplinary Activities Award","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAnderson Interface Professor of Natural Systems, Valerie Thomas has been awarded the Class of 1934 Outstanding Interdisciplinary Activities Award by the Faculty Honors Committee.\u0026nbsp;The award was established to recognize Georgia Tech faculty who have made significant interdisciplinary contributions to teaching and research.\u0026nbsp;Professor Thomas has been active in a wide variety of research areas including nuclear arms control, energy policy, high-energy physics, environmental sustainability, and technology assessment.\u0026nbsp; Her collaborations are equally varied, including colleagues from academia, and the public and private sectors.\u0026nbsp;The nature of her collaborations and diverse subject expertise has resulted in research that engages the public and has had meaningful impacts in policy making.\u0026nbsp;The award will be presented at the annual Georgia Tech Faculty and Staff Honors Luncheon to be held on Wednesday, April 11, 2018.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EProfessor Thomas holds a joint appointment in the H. Milton Stewart School of Industrial \u0026amp; Systems Engineering and in the School of Public Policy at Georgia Tech. Dr. Thomas\u0027s research interests include energy systems, sustainability, industrial ecology, technology assessment, international security, and science and technology policy. Her current research projects include the environmental impacts of biofuels and electricity system policy and planning. Dr. Thomas is a member of the USDA\/DOE Biomass Research and Development Technical Advisory Committee. In 2004-2005, she was the American Physical Society Congressional Science Fellow. Dr. Thomas is a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, and of the American Physical Society, and has been a Member of the U.S. EPA Science Advisory Board. She is currently a member of the board of the Southeast Energy Efficiency Alliance and a member of the Federation of American Scientists Board of Experts.\u0026nbsp;She has previously worked at the Department of Engineering and Public Policy at Carnegie Mellon University, and at Princeton University\u2019s Environmental Institute. Dr. Thomas received a B.A. in physics from Swarthmore College and a Ph.D. in theoretical physics from Cornell University.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAnderson Interface Professor of Natural Systems, Valerie Thomas has been awarded the Class of 1934 Outstanding Interdisciplinary Activities Award by the Faculty Honors Committee.\u0026nbsp;The award was established to recognize Georgia Tech faculty who have made significant interdisciplinary contributions to teaching and research.\u0026nbsp;Professor Thomas has been active in a wide variety of research areas including nuclear arms control, energy policy, high-energy physics, environmental sustainability, and technology assessment.\u0026nbsp; Her collaborations are equally varied, including colleagues from academia, and the public and private sectors.\u0026nbsp;The nature of her collaborations and diverse subject expertise has resulted in research that engages the public and has had meaningful impacts in policy making.\u0026nbsp;The award will be presented at the annual Georgia Tech Faculty and Staff Honors Luncheon to be held on Wednesday, April 11, 2018.\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n\r\n\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/sustainable.gatech.edu\/bigideas\/valerie-thomas-honored-class-1934-outstanding-interdisciplinary-activities-award\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERead More...\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/h2\u003E\r\n","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The Faculty Honors Committee.will be present the award at the annual Georgia Tech Faculty and Staff Honors Luncheon to be held on Wednesday, April 11, 2018."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2018-03-12 14:16:23","changed_gmt":"2025-06-18 16:18:09","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2018-03-12T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2018-03-12T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"603617":{"id":"603617","type":"image","title":"Valerie Thomas Portrait","body":null,"created":"1520862562","gmt_created":"2018-03-12 13:49:22","changed":"1520862562","gmt_changed":"2018-03-12 13:49:22","alt":"","file":{"fid":"230079","name":"ValerieThomas_2_web.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/ValerieThomas_2_web.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/ValerieThomas_2_web.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":51177,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/images\/ValerieThomas_2_web.jpg?itok=_YtBFPBw"}}},"media_ids":["603617"],"related_links":[{"url":"http:\/\/www.specialevents.gatech.edu\/events\/faculty-staff-honors","title":"2018 Faculty \u0026 Staff Honors Luncheon"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.isye.gatech.edu\/users\/valerie-thomas","title":"Valerie Thomas\u0027 ISYE Profile"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.iac.gatech.edu\/people\/faculty\/thomas","title":"Valerie Thomas\u0027 School of Public Policy Profile"}],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"166871","name":"bbiss_big_ideas"},{"id":"126251","name":"Valerie Thomas; ISYE; environment; energy"},{"id":"9624","name":"Class of 1934"},{"id":"177355","name":"outstanding interdisciplinary activity award"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"39461","name":"Manufacturing, Trade, and Logistics"},{"id":"39511","name":"Public Service, Leadership, and Policy"},{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@sustainable.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Communications Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@sustainable.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"677589":{"#nid":"677589","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Nature\u2019s Ingenuity Inspires Civil Engineer to Design Efficient and Effective Solutions","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E- Written by Benjamin Wright -\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENature doesn\u2019t waste energy, and nature finds ways to adapt to a changing world. Understanding those two principles led \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ce.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/j-david-frost\u0022\u003EDavid Frost\u003C\/a\u003E to his interest in bio-inspired design. Frost, the Elizabeth and Bill Higginbotham Professor in Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ce.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Civil and Environmental Engineering,\u003C\/a\u003E has spent the last dozen years searching for ways to use nature\u2019s efficiency and ingenuity to improve the civil engineering field. His efforts are paying off. In the last year alone, research from his lab has resulted in multiple patent filings, licensing agreements, and product launches \u2014 all of which take their inspiration from the biological world.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMany of those research projects have been the subjects of doctoral research by Frost\u2019s students, with support and advisement from \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sites.cc.gatech.edu\/~mhelms3\/index.php\u0022\u003EMichael Helms\u003C\/a\u003E, co-director of Georgia Tech\u2019s \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cbid.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ECenter for Biologically Inspired Design\u003C\/a\u003E (CBID) and the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sustainable.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EBrook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems\u003C\/a\u003E lead for biologically inspired design. The CBID mandate is to encourage researchers to find inspiration in the biological world, where design solutions have been in development for three-and-a-half billion years as life has on Earth has evolved. Building on the concept that nature isn\u2019t wasteful, one of the goals of bio-inspired design is to develop products that are both energy and materially efficient, and therefore more sustainable.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs the subsurface exploration and excavation thrust leader for the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nsf.gov\/\u0022\u003ENational Science Foundation\u003C\/a\u003E (NSF) \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cbbg.engineering.asu.edu\/\u0022\u003ECenter for Bio-mediated and Bio-inspired Geotechnics\u003C\/a\u003E (CBBG), Frost focuses on what\u2019s going on below the planet\u2019s surface. His inspiration comes from things like tree roots, earthworms, spider webs, and ant colonies. In fact, ants are what first got him interested in bio-inspired design.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThere are many organism systems that have not been thought of as necessarily the most intelligent systems. But in fact, they are following a set of rules, approaches, or guidelines and are producing things that, in the end, are both energy- and resource-efficient and adaptive,\u201d said Frost. \u201cOne of these is ant colonies. We see the hills above ground, but what\u2019s going on below the ground, with the tunnels and chambers, is fascinating.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEarly in his time with CBBG, Frost came across a Florida artist who made metal castings of ant colony structures. Frost acquired some, made more castings of his own, and then built digital models of ant colonies to understand how the structures maintain their strength. He also studied exactly how ants build such complex structures so efficiently.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThey take advantage of capillarity, arching effects, and the strength of spirals,\u201d explained Frost.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnts dig by carefully and quickly probing each grain of sand or dirt, in the same way a human might test a Jenga piece, before deciding whether it can be safely removed without damaging the tunnel. As a result, ants are extremely energy efficient as they dig, continually removing the least encumbered pieces of material. Based on this information, Frost and his team are exploring ways to improve the effectiveness and energy usage of tunnel-boring machines.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOther bio-inspired projects from Frost\u2019s research that are further along in the development process include building anchors inspired by tree roots, a ground heat-exchange system based on spirals and plant xylem, a geogrid (or stabilization mesh) design based on spiderwebs, a worm-inspired soil probe, and another probe design influenced by a vortex and centipedes that would displace a minimum amount of soil.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cI\u0027m convinced that just about any system in nature we look at will help us think about analogs for things that, as human engineers, we\u2019d like to do \u2014 and do better,\u201d said Frost. \u201cThe opportunities for inspiration and improvement are endless.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETake the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/licensing.research.gatech.edu\/index.php\/technology\/root-inspired-ground-anchor\u0022\u003ERoot-Inspired Ground Anchor\u003C\/a\u003E (RIGA), for example. Anchors are an essential element in construction, stabilizing retaining walls and other foundation structures. Traditionally, anchors are straight poles inserted into the ground. Looking at tree roots, Frost wondered if there was a better way. That thought led him to inventing an anchor that can be driven into the ground and then expanded under the surface, similar to the structure of tree roots. The expandable anchor improves load capacity by up to 75% and is about two-thirds as long as a conventional anchor. After years of refinement, the device has been patented, licensed, and is the basis of a startup founded by Ph.D. student \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/john-a-huntoon\/\u0022\u003EJohn Huntoon\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFrost takes the most pride in the real-world impact of his bio-inspired designs. Since 2023, Georgia Tech has filed, or is in the process of filing, utility patents for five of them. Like the RIGA system, those patents will be available for licensing for commercial use. Companies have already contacted Frost about his heat-exchange and geogrid concepts.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cCivil engineering doesn\u2019t traditionally have a culture of patent-producing research,\u201d noted Frost. \u201cIt\u2019s exciting to see these filings and how they can generate energy and enthusiasm for studying natural systems and using what we learn to improve the world. Practical application has always been very important to me.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFrost is finding that practical application also appeals to the next generation of civil engineers \u2014 specifically K-12 students interested in the profession who tour the CBID affiliated labs on campus. The students study nature\u2019s designs and figure out how to apply them, rather than learn traditional construction methods.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cAnts, spiders, and worms are immediately relatable for middle- and high-school students,\u201d Frost said. \u201cThey think engineering is all math and science, and that doesn\u2019t sound fun to them. Instead, we show them they can be inspired by anything and then use that to make it about conservation and adaptation and energy minimization. Those are things they are interested in.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFrost is hopeful that the students of today and tomorrow will continue to take inspiration from nature, enabling humans to adapt to a changing world as effectively as nature has.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ENature doesn\u2019t waste energy, and nature finds ways to adapt to a changing world. Understanding those two principles led\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ce.gatech.edu\/directory\/person\/j-david-frost\u0022\u003EDavid Frost\u003C\/a\u003E to his interest in bio-inspired design. Frost, the Elizabeth and Bill Higginbotham Professor in Georgia Tech\u2019s\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ce.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Civil and Environmental Engineering,\u003C\/a\u003E has spent the last dozen years searching for ways to use nature\u2019s efficiency and ingenuity to improve the civil engineering field.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"David Frost sees endless innovation in natural systems to solve real-world civil engineering problems."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2024-10-15 15:53:16","changed_gmt":"2025-06-18 16:12:22","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2024-10-15T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2024-10-15T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"675321":{"id":"675321","type":"image","title":"Cast_Ant_Hill_cropped.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAnt hill cast in molten aluminum to show intricate underground structure of tunnels and chambers, much like the branches of coral.\u003C\/p\u003E","created":"1729011324","gmt_created":"2024-10-15 16:55:24","changed":"1729011324","gmt_changed":"2024-10-15 16:55:24","alt":"Ant hill cast in molten aluminum to show intricate underground structure of tunnels and chambers, much like the branches of coral.","file":{"fid":"258932","name":"Cast_Ant_Hill_cropped.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2024\/10\/15\/Cast_Ant_Hill_cropped.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2024\/10\/15\/Cast_Ant_Hill_cropped.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":315533,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2024\/10\/15\/Cast_Ant_Hill_cropped.jpg?itok=6UvkBGoQ"}}},"media_ids":["675321"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/cbid.gatech.edu\/","title":"Georgia Tech Center for Biologically Inspired Design"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=GNkb2qtySss","title":"Sustainable Geotechnical Systems Lab Video"}],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[{"id":"145","name":"Engineering"},{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"},{"id":"187915","name":"go-researchnews"},{"id":"194025","name":"J. David Frost"},{"id":"87531","name":"The Center for Biologically Inspired Design"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[{"id":"71881","name":"Science and Technology"}],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Research Communications Program Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"672587":{"#nid":"672587","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Re-Wind USA Wins First Phase of DOE Prize","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EPioneering a new recycling approach led to a big win for Re-Wind USA,\u0026nbsp;a Georgia Tech research team led by\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/arch.gatech.edu\/people\/russell-gentry\u0022\u003ERussell Gentry\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;The team has won the first phase of the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.energy.gov\/eere\/articles\/doe-announces-phase-one-prize-winners-boost-recycling-circular-wind-energy-economy\u0022\u003EDepartment of Energy\u0027s Wind Turbine Materials Recycling Prize\u003C\/a\u003E, receiving $75,000 and an invitation to compete in the final phase.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022Our innovation for end-of-service wind turbine blades is both simple and elegant \u2013 at its core, our technology captures all the embodied energy in the composite materials in the blade,\u0022 said Gentry, professor in the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/arch.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Architecture\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022The Re-Wind Network has pioneered structural recycling, the only of a number of competing technologies that upcycles the material of the blade and preserves the embodied energy from manufacturing,\u0022 Gentry said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0022Little additional energy is used to remanufacture the blade and the life of the blade, typically 20 years, is extended at least 50 years. This is a win-win solution from an environmental and economic perspective.\u0022\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOther methods for dealing with decommissioned wind blades involve mechanical grinding and landfilling of subsequent waste, an expensive and energy-intensive process, he said.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETeam members include Gentry, Sakshi Kakkad, Cayleigh Nicholson, Mehmet Bermek, and Larry Bank, from the School of Architecture; Gabriel Ackall, Yulizza Henao, and Aeva Silverman, from the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/prod.ce.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ESchool of Civil and Environmental Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E; \u0026nbsp;and\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/eric-johansen-522aa329\u0022\u003EEric Johansen\u003C\/a\u003E, a business consultant from Fiberglass Trusses Inc.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe team is part of the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.re-wind.info\/\u0022\u003ERe-Wind Network\u003C\/a\u003E, a multinational research and development network which develops large-scale infrastructure projects from decommissioned wind turbine blades.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERe-Wind\u0027s pedestrian bridges, known as BladeBridges, have\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/arch.gatech.edu\/feature\/georgia-tech-research-makes-new-life-old-blades\u0022\u003Ealready captured media attention\u003C\/a\u003E. Two more BladeBridges are expected in Atlanta in 2024, Gentry said. Re-Wind has also developed, prototyped, and tested transmission poles made from blade segments. The team\u0027s other proposals include culverts, barriers, and floats.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"Pioneering Process Leads to Big Win for Tech Research Team"}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA pioneering a new recycling approach led to a big win for Re-Wind USA in the first phase of the Department of Energy\u0027s Wind Turbine Materials Recycling Prize, receiving $75,000 and an invitation to compete in the final phase.\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"A pioneering a new recycling approach led to a big win for Re-Wind USA in\u00a0the first phase of the\u00a0Department of Energy\u0027s Wind Turbine Materials Recycling Prize."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2024-01-31 16:53:14","changed_gmt":"2025-06-18 16:05:20","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2024-01-26T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2024-01-26T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"672913":{"id":"672913","type":"image","title":"top.re-wind.bladebridge_0.png","body":"\u003Cp\u003EOverhead view of the Re-Wind crew doing structural testing on a decommissioned wind turbine blade bridge on an industrial lot.\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n","created":"1706720141","gmt_created":"2024-01-31 16:55:41","changed":"1706720141","gmt_changed":"2024-01-31 16:55:41","alt":"Overhead view of the Re-Wind crew doing structural testing on a decommissioned wind turbine blade bridge on an industrial lot.","file":{"fid":"256243","name":"top.re-wind.bladebridge_0.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2024\/01\/31\/top.re-wind.bladebridge_0.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2024\/01\/31\/top.re-wind.bladebridge_0.png","mime":"image\/png","size":2310937,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2024\/01\/31\/top.re-wind.bladebridge_0.png?itok=7dLAHtNB"}}},"media_ids":["672913"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/arch.gatech.edu\/feature\/re-wind-usa-wins-first-phase-doe-prize","title":"Original article on Georgia Tech School of Architecture website"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.re-wind.info\/","title":"Re-Wind Network Website"}],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[{"id":"136","name":"Aerospace"},{"id":"137","name":"Architecture"},{"id":"179355","name":"Building Construction"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"145","name":"Engineering"},{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"132","name":"Institute Leadership"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"},{"id":"10403","name":"russell gentry"},{"id":"193475","name":"Re-Wind"},{"id":"1153","name":"recycling"},{"id":"2330","name":"wind turbines"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"39471","name":"Materials"},{"id":"193652","name":"Matter and Systems"},{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAnn Hoevel,\u0026nbsp;Director of Communications,\u0026nbsp;College of Design\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["ann.hoevel@design.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"659749":{"#nid":"659749","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Using Bio-Inspired Design to Teach High School Students About Engineering","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EFor decades, engineers and scientists have looked to nature for inspiration. One of the most famous examples is Swiss electrical engineer George de Mestral. In 1955, he invented the hook and loop fastener (which he later named Velcro) after studying burdock burrs that kept sticking to his clothes during a hunting trip. For the birth of flight, the Wright brothers studied how birds change the angle of their wings to roll right or left while in the air. They would use the example to refine their control systems in the world\u2019s first successful motor-operated airplane. \u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA number of Georgia Tech researchers are also focused on biologically inspired design, ranging from the study of how\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/coe.gatech.edu\/news\/2021\/08\/mechanics-pellet-carrying-honey-bees\u0022\u003Ehoney bees transport pollen pellets\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;to how\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cos.gatech.edu\/news\/tiny-limbs-and-long-bodies-coordinating-lizard-locomotion\u0022\u003Esmall, snakelike lizards move\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith the assistance of a $3 million National Science Foundation grant, Georgia Tech\u2019s\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.ceismc.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ECenter for Education Integrating Science, Mathematics, and Computing (CEISMC)\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;and the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/cbid.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ECenter for Biologically Inspired Design (CBID)\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;are partnering on a three year research project that introduces biologically inspired design to high school students throughout metro Atlanta.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/coe.gatech.edu\/news\/2022\/07\/using-bio-inspired-design-teach-high-school-students-about-engineering\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ERead the Full Story at the College of Engineering Website\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EGeorgia Tech\u0026rsquo;s BIRDEE program is helping metro Atlanta public school teachers develop new engineering curriculum to inspire high school students.\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Georgia Tech\u2019s BIRDEE program is helping metro Atlanta public school teachers develop new engineering curriculum to inspire high school students."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2022-07-29 15:52:56","changed_gmt":"2025-06-18 16:00:11","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2022-07-29T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2022-07-29T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"659750":{"id":"659750","type":"image","title":"BIRDEE Group Photo","body":null,"created":"1659110393","gmt_created":"2022-07-29 15:59:53","changed":"1659110393","gmt_changed":"2022-07-29 15:59:53","alt":"Group photo of the BIRDEE participants at the Atlanta Zoo.","file":{"fid":"250064","name":"BIRDEE Group Photo Zoo.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/BIRDEE%20Group%20Photo%20Zoo.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/BIRDEE%20Group%20Photo%20Zoo.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":878420,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/images\/BIRDEE%20Group%20Photo%20Zoo.jpg?itok=M1B_jWiL"}}},"media_ids":["659750"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/coe.gatech.edu\/news\/2022\/07\/using-bio-inspired-design-teach-high-school-students-about-engineering","title":"Full Story"}],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"129","name":"Institute and Campus"},{"id":"132","name":"Institute Leadership"},{"id":"146","name":"Life Sciences and Biology"},{"id":"134","name":"Student and Faculty"}],"keywords":[{"id":"2861","name":"CBID"},{"id":"411","name":"CEISMC"},{"id":"190984","name":"Bio-inspired design"},{"id":"327","name":"high school"},{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:candler.hobbs@coe.gatech.edu\u0022\u003ECandler Hobbs\u003C\/a\u003E, Communications Officer, College of Engineering\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["candler.hobbs@coe.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"623619":{"#nid":"623619","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Brook Byers Prof. Brown Takes Deep Dive into Energy Poverty in New Paper","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u201cIn an era of U.S. energy abundance, the persistently high energy bills paid by low-income households is troubling.\u201d\u0026nbsp; So begins the abstract to a new paper authored by Brook Byers Professor Marylin Brown and several co-authors.\u0026nbsp; Prof. Brown is also a Georgia Regents\u2019 Professor, Director of the Georgia Tech Climate and Energy Policy Laboratory, and a Nobel Laureate.\u0026nbsp; The paper was recently published in the open access journal Progress in Energy, the full title of which is \u201c\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/iopscience.iop.org\/article\/10.1088\/2516-1083\/ab250b\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ELow-income Energy Affordability in an Era of U.S. Energy Abundance\u003C\/a\u003E.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis paper is a review of the current literature on energy costs in low-income households in the U.S. \u0026nbsp;The review reveals that socio-economic factors of the energy landscape put an onerous burden on poor households.\u0026nbsp; Programs meant to alleviate the burdens of energy insecurity are not particularly effective.\u0026nbsp; The authors draw four general conclusions:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEnergy burden is highest among low-income households.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ELow-income energy burden is worsening despite programs and funds tasked to help.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ELow-income households cannot take advantage of many of the policies and programs that promote energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ELow-income utility customers receive a disproportionately small share of the funding targeted to improve residential energy efficiency.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe authors point out that the most common models for policy interventions into energy poverty were begun in the 1970\u2019s.\u0026nbsp; Few innovations or adjustments have been made to them despite a changing energy environment.\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Currently, short term solutions, like financial assistance with utility bills, vastly outweigh programs with longer term effects such as weatherization or appliance replacement programs.\u0026nbsp; The focus on the short-term financial needs of low-income rate payers tends to perpetuate energy insecurity, rather than offering efficiency investments, which have proven to be a more durable solution.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMany other policy solutions are suggested in the paper including inter-agency coordination, targeting low-income multi-family housing, implementing technology solutions such as smart thermostats, and innovations in the financing of energy upgrades.\u0026nbsp; The authors also emphasize that some programs result in additional benefits which aren\u2019t usually accounted for.\u0026nbsp; For example, members of households that undergo a weatherization process have better overall health than those that receive other energy help.\u0026nbsp; Weatherization results in improved indoor air quality, which is thought to lead to better overall health.\u0026nbsp; This, in turn, results in multiplying the financial benefits due to reduced sick days and lower healthcare costs.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInsights, like the one outlined above, prompted the authors to suggest more holistic and scalable approaches to addressing energy poverty in conjunction with other health and poverty related issues. \u0026nbsp;Professor Brown and her collaborators conclude that the transition to a sustainable energy future need not leave behind those at the low end of the income spectrum.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u0026ldquo;In an era of U.S. energy abundance, the persistently high energy bills paid by low-income households is troubling.\u0026rdquo;\u0026nbsp; So begins the abstract to a new paper authored by Brook Byers Professor Marylin Brown and several co-authors.\u0026nbsp; Prof. Brown is also a Georgia Regents\u0026rsquo; Professor, Director of the Georgia Tech Climate and Energy Policy Laboratory, and a Nobel Laureate.\u0026nbsp; The paper was recently published in the open access journal \u003Cem\u003EProgress in Energy\u003C\/em\u003E, the full title of which is \u0026ldquo;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/iopscience.iop.org\/article\/10.1088\/2516-1083\/ab250b\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ELow-income Energy Affordability in an Era of U.S. Energy Abundance\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026rdquo;\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n\r\n\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/bigideas\/brook-byers-prof-brown-takes-deep-dive-energy-poverty-new-paper\u0022\u003ERead More...\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/h2\u003E\r\n","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Brook Byers Professor Marylin Brown and several co-authors have published a paper on energy poverty in _Progress in Energy_."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2019-07-22 23:44:05","changed_gmt":"2025-06-18 15:54:36","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2019-07-22T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2019-07-22T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"617552":{"id":"617552","type":"image","title":"Marilyn Brown","body":null,"created":"1549654607","gmt_created":"2019-02-08 19:36:47","changed":"1549654607","gmt_changed":"2019-02-08 19:36:47","alt":"","file":{"fid":"235058","name":"Brown Portrait High Res 2018.png","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/Brown%20Portrait%20High%20Res%202018.png","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/Brown%20Portrait%20High%20Res%202018.png","mime":"image\/png","size":1084696,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/images\/Brown%20Portrait%20High%20Res%202018.png?itok=xDn4Rjz4"}}},"media_ids":["617552"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[{"id":"144","name":"Energy"}],"keywords":[{"id":"166871","name":"bbiss_big_ideas"},{"id":"330","name":"Marilyn Brown"},{"id":"181802","name":"energy poverty"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@sustainable.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Communications Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@sustainable.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"603983":{"#nid":"603983","#data":{"type":"news","title":"New BBISS Fellows Appointed","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EFive new Fellows were appointed to the Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems. In addition to their own work, BBISS Fellows serve as advisors to the BBISS and help to advance its vision, mission, values, and objectives across the community of sustainability-minded researchers, educators, and students at Georgia Tech. Fellows will work with the BBISS for three years, with the potential for renewal.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe five new Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems Faculty (BBISS) Fellows are:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.iac.gatech.edu\/people\/faculty\/brown_2\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EKate Pride Brown\u003C\/a\u003E (School of History and Sociology)\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.iac.gatech.edu\/people\/faculty\/massetti\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EEmanuele Massetti\u003C\/a\u003E (School of Public Policy)\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/tang.eas.gatech.edu\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EYuanzhi Tang\u003C\/a\u003E (School of Earth \u0026amp; Atmospheric Sciences)\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/faculty\/telenko\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ECassandra Telenko\u003C\/a\u003E (Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering)\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/planning.gatech.edu\/perry-yang\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EPerry Yang\u003C\/a\u003E (School of City \u0026amp; Regional Planning)\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EAbout the BBISS:\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThe Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems promotes comprehensive and innovative systems-based approaches to address the challenges and opportunities inherent in achieving a sustainable and prosperous future. The BBISS enhances Georgia Tech\u2019s research, education, and service missions, and campus operations through leadership, communications, development, and decision making inspired and defined by the principles of sustainability. More information is available at the \u003C\/em\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/sustainability.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003EBBISS Website\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cem\u003E.\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EAdditional Links:\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/sustainable.gatech.edu\/profs_fellows\u0022\u003Ehttp:\/\/sustainable.gatech.edu\/profs_fellows\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ELinks to profiles:\u003C\/em\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.iac.gatech.edu\/people\/faculty\/brown_2\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EKate Pride Brown\u003C\/a\u003E, School of History and Sociology\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.iac.gatech.edu\/people\/faculty\/massetti\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EEmanuele Massetti\u003C\/a\u003E, School of Public Policy\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/tang.eas.gatech.edu\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EYuanzhi Tang\u003C\/a\u003E, School of Earth \u0026amp; Atmospheric Sciences\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/www.me.gatech.edu\/faculty\/telenko\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ECassandra Telenko\u003C\/a\u003E, Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/planning.gatech.edu\/perry-yang\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EPerry Yang\u003C\/a\u003E, School of City \u0026amp; Regional Planning\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EFive new BBISS\u0026nbsp;Fellows have been appointed.\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Five new BBISS Fellows have been appointed."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2018-03-19 17:49:45","changed_gmt":"2025-06-18 15:53:44","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems promotes comprehensive and innovative systems-based approaches to address the challenges and opportunities inherent in achieving a sustainable and prosperous future. The BBISS enhances Georgia Tech\u0026rsquo;s research, education, and service missions, and campus operations through leadership, communications, development, and decision making inspired and defined by the principles of sustainability. More information is available\u003Cem\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/em\u003Eat the \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/sustainable.gatech.edu\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EBBISS Website\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2018-03-19T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2018-03-19T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"603999":{"id":"603999","type":"image","title":"2018 BBISS Fellows Portraits","body":null,"created":"1521486393","gmt_created":"2018-03-19 19:06:33","changed":"1521486393","gmt_changed":"2018-03-19 19:06:33","alt":"Grouping of the five BBISS Fellows newly appointed in 2018.","file":{"fid":"230215","name":"2018_Fellows_2_3.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/2018_Fellows_2_3.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/2018_Fellows_2_3.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":312301,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/images\/2018_Fellows_2_3.jpg?itok=Ptf8mHvp"}}},"media_ids":["603999"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[{"id":"129","name":"Institute and Campus"}],"keywords":[{"id":"169922","name":"bbiss fellows"},{"id":"87921","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@sustainable.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Communications Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@sustainable.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"476891":{"#nid":"476891","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Fires and Air Quality Forecasts: Past, Present, and Future","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EM. Talat Odman, Yongtao Hu, Fernando, Garcia-Menendez, Aika Y. Davis, Michael E. Chang, Armistead G. Russell, EM Magazine, a publication of the Air \u0026amp; Waste Management Association, November, 2013, 12-22. \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/pubs.awma.org\/gsearch\/em\/2013\/11\/odman.pdf#page=1\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EDownload .PDF (~900 KB)\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EM. Talat Odman, Yongtao Hu, Fernando, Garcia-Menendez, Aika Y. Davis, Michael E. Chang, Armistead G. Russell, EM Magazine, a publication of the Air \u0026amp; Waste Management Association, November, 2013, 12-22. \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/pubs.awma.org\/gsearch\/em\/2013\/11\/odman.pdf#page=1\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EDownload .PDF (~900 KB)\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"M. Talat Odman, Yongtao Hu, Fernando, Garcia-Menendez, Aika Y. Davis, Michael E. Chang, Armistead G. Russell, EM Magazine, a publication of the Air \u0026 Waste Management Association, November, 2013, 12-22."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2015-12-07 16:52:47","changed_gmt":"2025-06-18 15:52:03","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2013-11-01T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2013-11-01T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"166885","name":"bbiss_air_quality"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[],"email":[],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"675764":{"#nid":"675764","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Community Spotlight - Yuanzhi Tang","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E- Written by Benjamin Wright -\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYuanzhi Tang knows firsthand how much of an impact BBISS can make through its programs. The associate professor in the School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences answered a BBISS call for faculty fellowships, and later seed funding for a project related to sustainable resources. That project grew into a collaboration with Georgia Tech\u2019s Strategic Energy Institute; the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/sites.gatech.edu\/cems\/\u0022\u003ECenter for Critical Mineral Solutions\u003C\/a\u003E (CCMS), supported by the College of Sciences and co-sponsored by BBISS; SEI; the Institute for Electronics and Nanotechnology (IEN); and the Institute for Materials (IMat and IEN are now combined into the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/matter-systems.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EInstitute for Matter and Systems\u003C\/a\u003E). The goal of the center is to develop sustainable solutions for the grand challenges associated with critical metals and materials essential for the clean energy transition.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDuring her time as a faculty fellow within BBISS, Yuanzhi became familiar with the people in the organization and had the opportunity to evaluate student and faculty fellow applications. When the opportunity arose to take on the role of associate co-director of interdisciplinary research for BBISS, she was happy to accept so she could help others access resources that had shaped her growth as a researcher at Georgia Tech.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cBeing part of a community of people who value interdisciplinary research on sustainability-related topics, I benefited from the interactions and engagement with BBISS and I hope to carry that forward, particularly for young faculty. They are often eager to connect but might not know where to begin. BBISS can be a starting point for them.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith a background in geochemistry and degrees from Peking University, Stony Brook University, and a postdoc at Harvard, Yuanzhi has gained a breadth of experience that has earned her a variety of awards and recognition. As she joins BBISS in a formal role, she has some advice for early-career colleagues.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cGo to seminars, events, and organized activities, as the best ideas often come through communicating and networking with others, and that\u2019s how you discover that your expertise is needed in other fields. Be confident in who you are as a scholar, but also go out and find ways to collaborate. Georgia Tech places value on interdisciplinary research, and this is a unique strength that you should leverage.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAway from the office, classroom, and lab, Yuanzhi is a wife and mother of two young children. She enjoys cuddle time with the kids and navigating parenthood in an academically driven household. Her husband is also a Georgia Tech professor and together they juggle the challenges of their careers with spending quality time with the children. \u201cWe try to keep work minimal on weekends and get out of the house and enjoy what Atlanta has to offer. We love nature and appreciate that we can be close to campus, close to the city, and still have so many green places to be outside.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs she embarks on her new role with BBISS, Yuanzhi sees parallels between being a parent, professor, and now an administrator.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe world is changing rapidly with the explosion of information and technology. It\u2019s a struggle to know what to teach my kids and my students. How do we prepare them for five, 10, or even 20 years from now? This feeling of responsibility connects my work and personal life. It\u2019s challenging, but also very exciting to see how we can help them embrace changes.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003ETang took on the role of associate co-director of interdisciplinary research for BBISS so she could help others access resources that had shaped her growth as a researcher at Georgia Tech.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Tang took on the role of associate co-director of interdisciplinary research for BBISS so she could help others access resources that had shaped her growth as a researcher at Georgia Tech."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2024-08-05 16:05:21","changed_gmt":"2025-06-18 15:51:20","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2024-08-05T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2024-08-05T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"673819":{"id":"673819","type":"image","title":"Yuanzhi Tang","body":null,"created":"1713900468","gmt_created":"2024-04-23 19:27:48","changed":"1713900468","gmt_changed":"2024-04-23 19:27:48","alt":"Yuanzhi Tang","file":{"fid":"257262","name":"Yuanzhi Tang pic2.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2024\/04\/23\/Yuanzhi%20Tang%20pic2.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2024\/04\/23\/Yuanzhi%20Tang%20pic2.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":1451744,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2024\/04\/23\/Yuanzhi%20Tang%20pic2.jpg?itok=WO9lHAY5"}}},"media_ids":["673819"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/sites.gatech.edu\/cems\/","title":"Center for Critical Mineral Solutions (CCMS)"}],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[{"id":"141","name":"Chemistry and Chemical Engineering"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"132","name":"Institute Leadership"}],"keywords":[{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"},{"id":"175754","name":"Yuanzhi Tang"},{"id":"132161","name":"BBISS"},{"id":"193890","name":"Center for Critical Mineral Solutions"},{"id":"193891","name":"community spotlight"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Research Communications Program Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"669489":{"#nid":"669489","#data":{"type":"news","title":"New NEETRAC Director Joe Hagerman Aims for Center to Lead Amid Power Grid Transformation","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAs the nation\u0027s power grid undergoes a transformative shift with historic investment in clean energy, \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/joseph-hagerman\u0022\u003EJoe Hagerman\u003C\/a\u003E understands the importance of this moment for the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.neetrac.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003ENational Electric Energy Testing, Research and Applications Center\u003C\/a\u003E (NEETRAC). It presents the center with a distinct opportunity to showcase expertise, drive progress, and actively shape the future of the grid.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENEETRAC, a leading research and testing resource for the electric energy industry, housed under the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ece.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EGeorgia Tech School of Electrical and Computer Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E (ECE), has announced the appointment of Hagerman as its director, starting June 1.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cUnder the leadership of former Director Rick Hartlein, NEETRAC has established itself as a trusted authority in testing and research for the electric power industry,\u201d said Hagerman. \u201cThanks to this reputation, we are now poised to take a leading role in the country\u0027s de-carbonization and re-electrification priorities. The potential for strengthening our ties with the Institute, the state of Georgia, and federal entities is a once in a lifetime opportunity.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHagerman joins NEETRAC after directing the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/epicenter.energy.gatech.edu\/\u0022\u003EEnergy, Policy, and Innovation Center\u003C\/a\u003E (EPICenter), a division of the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/energy\u0022\u003EStrategic Energy Institute\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrior to Georgia Tech, Hagerman served as a section head at the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.ornl.gov\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer\u0022\u003EU.S. Department of Energy\u2019s Oak Ridge National Laboratory\u003C\/a\u003E. He also has served as the deputy chief scientist of the ;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.electric.coop\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer\u0022\u003ENational Rural Electric Cooperative Association\u003C\/a\u003E and as a senior policy advisory at the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.energy.gov\/eere\/office-energy-efficiency-renewable-energy\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer\u0022\u003EU.S. Office of Energy\u2019s Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cAs NEETRAC prepares for the next phase of its journey, Joe\u0027s passion, visionary approach, and bridge-building abilities will be indispensable for success,\u201d said \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ece.gatech.edu\/directory\/arijit-raychowdhury\u0022\u003EArijit Raychowdhury\u003C\/a\u003E, professor and Steve W. Chaddick School Chair in ECE. \u201cHis policy work and technical expertise in grid systems speak for themselves, especially regarding emerging areas like renewables, connected equipment, and cybersecurity. I\u2019m thrilled to have Joe leading the way.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch4\u003EThe Right Time for Growth\u003C\/h4\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe domestic demand for electricity continues to steadily rise because of the government\u0027s ambitious renewable and carbon-free energy objectives, the increased electrification of transportation and heating, and the growing demand for digitally connected devices.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdd this to an aging power grid, and incentives and investments for making the grid stronger and more resilient are at an all-time high for the electric power industry.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHagerman looks to leverage his governmental research reputation and knowledge of the Georgia Tech landscape to enhance NEETRAC\u0027s existing strengths and explore new opportunities. He seeks to establish new connections \u2014 both inside and outside of the Institute \u2014 for the center, enabling it to effectively drive innovation and address the evolving needs of the industry.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThe power grid stands as a remarkable feat of human engineering, and its sheer physical scale is incredible,\u201d said Hagerman. \u201cIncorporating changes is not as simple as flipping a switch. It requires extensive knowledge and countless hours of rigorous testing. Thankfully, NEETRAC and Georgia Tech possess an abundance of expertise \u2014 and a world class staff \u2014 that can be harnessed to navigate these challenges successfully.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch4\u003EAn Invaluable Industry Resource\u003C\/h4\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor more than 25 years, NEETRAC \u2014 located just south of the Atlanta campus, near the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport \u2014 has played a vital role in facilitating collaboration between the electric energy industry and academia.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEverything connected to the power grid \u2014 even power poles to bucket trucks \u2014 can be tested and researched at the center. NEETRAC\u2019s experienced engineers and technicians seek to deliver innovative, effective solutions to all problems related to the transmission and distribution of electric energy.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs a membership-supported center, NEETRAC\u0027s member companies comprise utilities that represent around 65% of U.S. electric customers, along with manufacturers who contribute significantly to the products and services offered in the electric utility industry.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cNEETRAC is much more than a testing laboratory to us,\u201d said Sherif Kamel, vice president of New Product Development at\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.southwire.com\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noreferrer\u0022\u003ESouthwire\u003C\/a\u003E, a NEETRAC member organization. \u201cThe deep knowledge and expertise that NEETRAC uses to support our industry\u2019s needs is unparalleled.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis diverse membership base promotes collaboration and knowledge exchange, keeping NEETRAC at the forefront of industry challenges, advancements, and opportunities.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESherif, NEETRAC\u0027s advisory board chair and a member of the search committee that recommended Hagerman, stated that NEETRAC\u0027s staff and facilities aid Southwire in developing, improving, and supporting customers. Additionally, the center enhances the credibility and proficiency of the company\u0027s test results. Southwire was founded in 1937 by Roy Richards, a graduate of Georgia Tech, and is a NEETRAC founding member.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch4\u003EFuture Potential\u003C\/h4\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHagerman stressed that with so much uncertainty regarding the future of the domestic power grid, one thing is clear: To evolve NEETRAC will need to enhance its relationship with the industry and scale to help its current and future members throughout North America.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThere\u2019s excitement in not knowing how everything will unfold,\u201d he said. \u201cIt\u2019s important for us to be nimble and ready to adapt, but to also use our position to anticipate the needs of our members and provide value and insights to our partners.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAccording to Hagerman, the future services of NEETRAC could be driven by several important factors, namely the integration of renewable energy sources, ensuring the security of the grid both in physical and cyber aspects, and harnessing the power of big data.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInvesting and expanding in the expertise of NEETRAC\u0027s skilled scientists and engineers, its technical staff, and its administrative staff is arguably the most crucial approach to meeting the uncertain demands of the future.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cBy nurturing the talents and skills of the team and by incorporating an inclusive approach, we all work toward the shared future of NEETRAC and the Institute. We are all one Georgia Tech,\u201d said Hagerman. \u201cNEETRAC\u2019s role in that future is defined by its cutting-edge evaluations, its world class research, and its continued support of innovation for a resilient and secure domestic power grid for all.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAs the nation\u0027s power grid undergoes a transformative shift with historic investment in clean energy, Joe Hagerman understands the importance of this moment for the National Electric Energy Testing, Research and Applications Center (NEETRAC).\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"As the nation\u0027s power grid undergoes a transformative shift with historic investment in clean energy, Joe Hagerman understands the importance of this moment for the National Electric Energy Testing, Research and Applications Center (NEETRAC)."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2023-09-06 17:37:13","changed_gmt":"2025-06-18 15:50:37","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2023-05-25T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2023-05-25T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"671616":{"id":"671616","type":"image","title":"NEETRAC Meeting_150_cropped.jpg","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThe NEETRAC advisory board meeting on May 17, at Georgia Tech. New NEETRAC Director Joe Hagerman (front row, second to left) was introduced to the board during the meetings.\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n","created":"1694021938","gmt_created":"2023-09-06 17:38:58","changed":"1694021938","gmt_changed":"2023-09-06 17:38:58","alt":"The NEETRAC advisory board meeting on May 17, at Georgia Tech. New NEETRAC Director Joe Hagerman (front row, second to left) was introduced to the board during the meetings.","file":{"fid":"254710","name":"NEETRAC Meeting_150_cropped.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2023\/09\/06\/NEETRAC%20Meeting_150_cropped.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2023\/09\/06\/NEETRAC%20Meeting_150_cropped.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":706928,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2023\/09\/06\/NEETRAC%20Meeting_150_cropped.jpg?itok=h3ivhzO4"}}},"media_ids":["671616"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EDan Watson\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["dwatson@ece.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"662211":{"#nid":"662211","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Bio-Inspired Maker Space Opens in Kendeda Building","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EAt first glance, the new maker space opening in the Kendeda Living Building for Innovative Sustainable Design might look like many others. However, the space, named EcoMake, has some important differences. Because it is housed in the Kendeda Building, there are strict standards for what types of materials and equipment can be used there in order to maintain its Living Building Certification. For example, you will find several 3-D printers there, like almost all maker spaces, but the plastic filament used in them is made from recycled plastic, perhaps recycled on-site with equipment in the lab itself.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome might regard such restrictions as too limiting to their creativity or design goals. Viewed another way, this approach opens up a unique set of possibilities. Biologically Inspired and Green Design (BIG-D) is a field of study (sometimes referred to by different names, like \u201cbiomimicry\u201d) that has demonstrated a lot of promise in the past few decades. This approach aims to translate the billions of years of knowledge and design wisdom embodied in our biological world into innovative green products. However, no matter how green the design of a product, they are often manufactured with traditional processes with limited consideration for energy, toxicity, water, or material use. Having a lab like EcoMake will help to usher in the field of study of Biologically Inspired and Green Manufacturing (BIG-M). BIG-M will require knowledge, equipment, and resources that are much different than traditional fabrication methods. Like natural systems, this new facility will operate within the means of nature, using no more energy or water than can be generated from its geometric footprint, and producing no more waste than it can assimilate on site.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEcoMake has the following tools and equipment (so far):\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E8 - Prusa I3S+ 3-D Printers\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E5 - Ender 3 Pro 3-D Printers\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEinScan-SP 3-D Object Scanner\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EMark-10 ESM303 Mechanical Tester\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E300-X Digital Microscope\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E3Devo Filament Extruder\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EShini SG-16N Plastic Granulator\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EPlastic Chip Dryer\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESinger Heavy Duty 4423 Sewing Machine\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EComplement of Standard Fabric Crafting Equipment\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEcoMake, the bio-inspired maker space will be open to students from all disciplines. It is supported by the Colleges of Design, Engineering, and Biology, and the Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems. Contact \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:michael.gamble@design.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EMichael Gamble\u003C\/a\u003E for more information.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EA new maker space is soon to open in the Kendeda Building that only uses ecologically preferable materials and tools.\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"A new maker space is soon to open in the Kendeda Building that only uses ecologically preferable materials and tools."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2022-10-17 17:10:41","changed_gmt":"2025-06-18 15:49:57","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2022-10-17T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2022-10-17T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"662212":{"id":"662212","type":"image","title":"EcoMake Signage","body":null,"created":"1666026800","gmt_created":"2022-10-17 17:13:20","changed":"1666026800","gmt_changed":"2022-10-17 17:13:20","alt":"EcoMake logo paired with image of the signage in the entrance to the new maker space.","file":{"fid":"250797","name":"EcoMake_Bio-inspired_Maker_Space_Picture_combined.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/EcoMake_Bio-inspired_Maker_Space_Picture_combined.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/EcoMake_Bio-inspired_Maker_Space_Picture_combined.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":488807,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/images\/EcoMake_Bio-inspired_Maker_Space_Picture_combined.jpg?itok=j3Ppbg_D"}}},"media_ids":["662212"],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[{"id":"137","name":"Architecture"},{"id":"144","name":"Energy"},{"id":"145","name":"Engineering"},{"id":"154","name":"Environment"},{"id":"179356","name":"Industrial Design"},{"id":"129","name":"Institute and Campus"},{"id":"146","name":"Life Sciences and Biology"},{"id":"135","name":"Research"},{"id":"8862","name":"Student Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"},{"id":"177751","name":"The Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design"},{"id":"191453","name":"EcoMake"},{"id":"186066","name":"Maker Space"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Research Communications Program Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"621990":{"#nid":"621990","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Michael Oxman Discusses Sustainable Business at Savannah Council on World Affairs","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EMichael Oxman, managing director of the Ray C. Anderson Center for Sustainable Business at Georgia Tech Scheller College of Business, was invited to speak at the Savannah Council on World Affairs on May 9. His talk, \u201cSelected Trends in Global Corporate Sustainability,\u201d focused on corporate and societal trends contributing to the field\u2019s increasing relevance as well as challenges and opportunities associated with addressing sustainability.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cThe common thread is understanding stakeholders,\u201d said Oxman to\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.savannahnow.com\/news\/20190508\/speaker-to-address-corporate-sustainability\u0022\u003E\u003Cem\u003ESavannah Morning News\u003C\/em\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EAfter working in the energy sector in places such as the Soviet Union, Kazakhstan, Papua New Guinea, and the Philippines, Oxman witnessed firsthand how social and environmental risks affect companies and their bottom lines. This experience paved a clear path to his current work in corporate sustainability.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u201cCompanies buy into it because there\u2019s clearly value to be had,\u201d he said.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EPrior to joining Georgia Tech in 2016, Oxman spent over 25 years working at the intersection of international business, sustainability, and risk management, including serving in leadership roles at Acorn International LLC and Business for Social Responsibility. In these roles, he advised a broad range of international energy and mining companies on local content, social impact, risk management, community engagement, reporting, corporate social responsibility, and human rights initiatives.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EThe talk was an installment in the\u0026nbsp;Savannah Council on World Affairs\u2019 monthly forum on international affairs. The series has included speakers from both the U.S. and around the world, including current and former government officials, diplomats, educators, journalists, and members of non-governmental organizations. The Savannah Council on World Affairs was founded in 1984 to foster individuals\u2019 and communities\u2019 interest in international issues. It is one of 83 councils affiliated with the World Affairs Councils of America.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EManaging Director of the Ray C. Anderson Center for Sustainable Business gave his talk, \u0026ldquo;Selected Trends in Global Corporate Sustainability.\u0026rdquo;\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Managing Director of the Ray C. Anderson Center for Sustainable Business gave his talk, \u201cSelected Trends in Global Corporate Sustainability.\u201d"}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2019-05-24 19:28:34","changed_gmt":"2025-06-18 15:48:59","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2019-05-24T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2019-05-24T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"621991":{"id":"621991","type":"image","title":"Michael Oxman Speaking at Savannah Council on World Affairs","body":null,"created":"1558726242","gmt_created":"2019-05-24 19:30:42","changed":"1558726242","gmt_changed":"2019-05-24 19:30:42","alt":"Michael Oxman spoke to the Savannah Council on World Affairs about sustainable business.","file":{"fid":"236922","name":"MOatSavannah.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/MOatSavannah.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/MOatSavannah.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":298688,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/images\/MOatSavannah.jpg?itok=h7q4CwWy"}}},"media_ids":["621991"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.savannahnow.com\/news\/20190508\/speaker-to-address-corporate-sustainability","title":"Read \u201c Speaker to Address Corporate Sustainability\u0022 by Savannah Morning News"}],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[{"id":"132","name":"Institute Leadership"}],"keywords":[{"id":"166920","name":"Ray C. Anderson Center for Sustainable Business"},{"id":"169218","name":"Michael Oxman"},{"id":"181406","name":"Savannah Council on World Affairs"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39511","name":"Public Service, Leadership, and Policy"},{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:courtney.lasker@scheller.gatech.edu\u0022\u003ECourtney Laske\u003C\/a\u003Er, Communications Officer, Ray C. Anderson Center for Sustainable Business\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["courtney.lasker@scheller.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"583252":{"#nid":"583252","#data":{"type":"news","title":"BBISS Grad Student, Broesicke Wins Scholarship from Latino STEM group","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe organization \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/mymaes.org\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EMAES \u2013\u0026nbsp;Latinos in Science and Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;gave environmental engineering Ph.D. student Osvaldo Broesicke its highest honor earlier this month, awarding him a Padrino Scholarship.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe scholarship is tied to the group\u2019s top prize for professional scientists and engineers and intended to create a mentoring relationship between the two honorees.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cI am honored to have been selected to receive this award,\u201d Broesicke said, noting he\u2019s been involved in the organization since he was an undergraduate at the University of Texas at El Paso. He said he looks forward to extending his role and encouraging Latino graduate students.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cI am dedicated to expanding STEM through minorities and excited to be helping [our group] promote graduate education for minorities.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Padrino Scholarship is named for the Spanish word for \u201cgodfather,\u201d Broesicke said, because of the special relationship between the student and professional winners.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cThis pairing of Madrina\/Padrino (Godmother\/Godfather) - Ahijada\/Ahijado (Goddaughter\/Godson) is a mentoring relationship of the Hispanic culture,\u201d he said. \u201cThis allows the establishment of a lifelong mentor relationship in which the [professional] provides guidance and serves as a role model for the young engineer or scientist.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBroesicke\u2019s scholarship also comes with the group\u2019s Medalla de Plata, or \u201csilver medal.\u201d MAES \u2014 the acronym comes from the group\u0027s original name that\u0027s no longer in use \u2014 introduced the medal this year to echo the professional prize, the \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/mymaes.org\/program-item\/medalla-de-oro\/?doing_wp_cron=1477440333.2661650180816650390625\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EMedalla de Oro, or \u201cgold medal.\u201d\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWinning the silver medal and scholarship means the organization expects big things from Broesicke, including that he\u2019ll one day take his place as a Medalla de Oro winner.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEntering his second year of studies with\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/ce.gatech.edu\/people\/Faculty\/581\/overview\u0022\u003EJohn Crittenden\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;at the Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems, Broesicke focuses on the nexus of food, energy and water, investigating the role commercial urban farms have in addressing the food needs of future generations.\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EThe organization \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/mymaes.org\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EMAES \u0026ndash;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/mymaes.org\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ELatinos in Science and Engineering\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;awarded environmental engineering Ph.D. student Osvaldo Broesicke with a Padrino Scholarship, its highest honor.\u003C\/p\u003E\r\n","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The organization\u00a0Latinos in Science and Engineering\u00a0gave environmental engineering Ph.D. student Osvaldo Broesicke its highest honor, awarding him a Padrino Scholarship."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2016-10-27 22:54:46","changed_gmt":"2025-06-18 15:47:49","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2016-10-27T00:00:00-04:00","iso_date":"2016-10-27T00:00:00-04:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"583253":{"id":"583253","type":"image","title":"Broesicke and Davis_LISE_Award","body":null,"created":"1477609109","gmt_created":"2016-10-27 22:58:29","changed":"1478622367","gmt_changed":"2016-11-08 16:26:07","alt":"Osvaldo Broesicke and Latinos in Science and Engineering\u00a0President, Will Davis","file":{"fid":"222350","name":"Broesicke-and-Will-Davis_MAES_v.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/Broesicke-and-Will-Davis_MAES_v.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/Broesicke-and-Will-Davis_MAES_v.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":149939,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/images\/Broesicke-and-Will-Davis_MAES_v.jpg?itok=ek-utuwg"}}},"media_ids":["583253"],"related_links":[{"url":"http:\/\/mymaes.org\/","title":"Latinos in Science and Engineering"},{"url":"http:\/\/sustainable.gatech.edu\/","title":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[{"id":"8862","name":"Student Research"}],"keywords":[{"id":"170686","name":"Osvaldo Broesicke"},{"id":"132161","name":"BBISS"},{"id":"61951","name":"CEE"},{"id":"172610","name":"Latinos in Science and Engineering"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:joshua.stewart@ce.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EJoshua Stewart\u003C\/a\u003E,\u003Cstrong\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/strong\u003EWriter\/Editor, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["joshua.stewart@ce.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"513121":{"#nid":"513121","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Messner Project Presentations","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EMany parrallels have been drawn between the current financial crisis and the Great Depression of the 1930\u0027s. We can also draw some lessons from how the U. S. federal government leveraged limited funds on large infrastructure projects to rebuild economic vitality. Encouraged by Mr. Michael Messner, Tech alum, partner of the Seminole Capital Partners and advisory board member of the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, this project was conducted to explore how this might occur with the current and forthcoming rounds of federal stimulus funds. The three presentations below are case studies that illustrate how depression era infrastructure projects helped pull the U. S. economy up and how they continue to benefit our society. One such opportunity identified in this study is transforming \u0022\u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/rftgf.org\/joomla\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003ERedfields to Greenfields\u003C\/a\u003E\u0022, where large industrial or retail properties which are \u0022in the red\u0022 (i.e. toxic assets) are converted to public green space.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u0022Panama Canal Case Study,\u0022 Jeong, Crittenden, \u0026amp; Xu, 12\/16\/2009, \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/sustainable.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/documents\/Panamna+Canal+Case+Study_hyunju.pdf\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EDownload PDF\u003C\/a\u003E (~.35 MB)\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u0022Tennesee Valley Authority Case Study,\u0022 James, Crittenden, \u0026amp; Xu, 12\/16\/2009, \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/sustainable.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/documents\/TVA+case+study.pdf\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EDownload PDF\u003C\/a\u003E (~.52 MB)\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u0022U.S. Water Infrastructure Economics Case Study,\u0022 Pandit, Crittenden, \u0026amp; Xu, 12\/16\/2009, \u003Ca href=\u0022http:\/\/sustainable.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/documents\/US+Water+Infrastructure+Economics.pdf\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EDownload PDF\u003C\/a\u003E (~1.1 MB)\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":"","field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EMany parrallels have been drawn between the current financial crisis and the Great Depression of the 1930\u0027s. We can also draw some lessons from how the U. S. federal government leveraged limited funds on large infrastructure projects to rebuild economic vitality. Encouraged by Mr. Michael Messner, Tech alum, partner of the Seminole Capital Partners and advisory board member of the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, this project was conducted to explore how this might occur with the current and forthcoming rounds of federal stimulus funds.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"The three presentations below are case studies that illustrate how depression era infrastructure projects helped pull the U. S. economy up and how they continue to benefit our society."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2016-03-14 14:20:54","changed_gmt":"2025-06-18 15:47:10","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","dateline":{"date":"2009-12-16T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2009-12-16T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"166883","name":"bbiss_infra_eco"},{"id":"149161","name":"bbiss_presentations"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"39531","name":"Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure"},{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@sustainable.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Communications Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@sustainable.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}},"678855":{"#nid":"678855","#data":{"type":"news","title":"Sustainable Tourism Through Technology","body":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E- by Benjamin Wright -\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDestination tourism has now matched or surpassed pre-Covid levels in many parts of the world. It\u2019s leading to challenges as operators and local governments try to walk the line between inviting visitors and preserving the places tourists want to visit so they can be enjoyed and studied for years to come. The more people who visit a site, the greater the risk of damage from foot traffic and contact with walls and artifacts. Even human breath in enclosed spaces can inflict as much damage as pollution from vehicles.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEnter Associate Professor \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/arch.gatech.edu\/people\/danielle-willkens\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EDanielle Willkens\u003C\/a\u003E from Georgia Tech\u2019s School of Architecture in the College of Design. Willkens, who is the Sustainable Tourism co-lead for the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/research.gatech.edu\/sustainability\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EBrook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems\u003C\/a\u003E (BBISS), is using technology to assess historic sites and develop strategies to mitigate damage caused by visitors and the development that frequently occurs when a site becomes popular.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cAt a foundational level, a lot of what we do is related to survey work,\u201d explains Willkens. \u201cWe are using LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), or lasers, to get very high-resolution, three-dimensional images. We end up with a digital record that serves as a snapshot of a building or space at one moment in time, and it becomes invaluable for preservation and rehabilitation planning.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe advantage of using LiDAR is that it is what Willkens calls a \u201cnon-contact invasive\u201d method. It doesn\u2019t damage the structure but can reveal existing weaknesses and flaws that need attention. In a matter of a few days, their process can reveal what could take weeks or months of visual inspection to uncover.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition to traveling abroad to examine sites in the Dominican Republic and the famous site of Petra in Jordan, Willkens uses her tools to help protect and preserve places that have played an important role in American civil rights history: W.E.B. Du Bois\u2019 office in Fountain Hall at Morris Brown College, the Penn Center on Saint Helena Island in South Carolina, and the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama. She is also working with the National Park Service to evaluate the MLK corridor in Atlanta and has projects in historic neighborhoods like Mechanicsville and Pittsburgh.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhere does Willkens\u2019 passion for protecting these places come from?\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cI\u0027m the daughter of an educator and two generations of educators beyond that,\u201d she says. \u201cI come from a line of people who are invested in teaching and advocacy \u2014 people who love travel and museums and appreciate the power of place.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne successful project that Willkens is particularly proud of is a \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.ussalabama.com\/explore\/uss-drum\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Escan of the USS Drum\u003C\/a\u003E, a World War II submarine on display at the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park in Mobile, Alabama. By recreating the interior of the submarine digitally, access has been granted to people who cannot visit the ship in person due to mobility limitations, claustrophobia, or distance. The project was launched on Veterans Day of 2024. Since then, 97-year-old Bill Lister, who is the last surviving member of the Drum\u2019s crew, has \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/ocm.auburn.edu\/newsroom\/news_articles\/2022\/11\/110803-uss-drum-virtual-tour-project.php\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Evisited the ship many times from the comfort of his home in Indiana\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA similar project is part of a partnership with Auburn University in which Willkens and her colleagues are developing a digital conflict map of the March 7, 1965, \u201cBloody Sunday\u201d march in Selma, Alabama.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShe sees tremendous value in people being able to visit these historic locations remotely.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cSignificant anniversaries are coming up, like the 60th anniversary of the Selma march, and unfortunately, we still have regular reminders that voting access is an ongoing concern. Being able to visit these sites remotely can be very powerful.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThrough grants and her seminar class, Race, Space, and Architecture in the United States, Willkens is training the next generation of architects and preservationists to get involved with their local communities and protect valuable places through technology.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cWe\u2019ve been able to take three groups of students down to the \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/places\/south-carolina-penn-center.htm\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EPenn Center in South Carolina\u003C\/a\u003E. We stay in the historic buildings, we do survey and research work on site, and we work with community members. St. Helena Island is at this somewhat precarious intersection of climate change and surrounding development in the Gullah Geechee corridor, and it\u2019s a microcosm of what a lot of historical sites are facing. The community has been very welcoming to us, and we\u2019re excited about the work we\u2019re doing there.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat work has been funded by a Sustainability Next Seed Grant. She strongly encourages other faculty and students to get involved with the BBISS and the Sustainability Next strategic plan initiative.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u201cBBISS is a great place to get to know people from across disciplines, and I\u0027m grateful for that,\u201d she explains. \u201cIn any discipline, it\u0027s easy within a university to stay in your silo. Being part of BBISS has been a great opportunity to meet people from different programs and different parts of Georgia Tech. I love the emphasis on community-engaged work that moves sustainability from an abstract systems level to something tangible that is making a difference locally.\u201d\u003C\/p\u003E","summary":"","format":"limited_html"}],"field_subtitle":[{"value":"Georgia Tech\u0027s Digital Solution to Historic Preservation"}],"field_summary":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003EDanielle Willkens, Associate Professor from Georgia Tech\u2019s School of Architecture in the College of Design and the Sustainable Tourism co-lead for the Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems (BBISS), is using technology to assess historic sites and develop strategies to mitigate damage caused by visitors and the development that frequently occurs when a site becomes a tourist destination.\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"field_summary_sentence":[{"value":"Danielle Willkens is using technology to assess historic sites and develop strategies to mitigate damage caused by visitors and development."}],"uid":"27338","created_gmt":"2024-12-12 22:50:25","changed_gmt":"2025-06-18 15:46:05","author":"Brent Verrill","boilerplate_text":"","field_publication":"","field_article_url":"","location":"Atlanta, GA","dateline":{"date":"2024-12-12T00:00:00-05:00","iso_date":"2024-12-12T00:00:00-05:00","tz":"America\/New_York"},"extras":[],"hg_media":{"675847":{"id":"675847","type":"image","title":"Danielle_800x600.jpg","body":null,"created":"1734043856","gmt_created":"2024-12-12 22:50:56","changed":"1734043856","gmt_changed":"2024-12-12 22:50:56","alt":"A woman holding a camera stands in front of a relief carving in a concrete wall mimicking its posture, with her arm raised over her head.","file":{"fid":"259519","name":"Danielle_800x600.jpg","image_path":"\/sites\/default\/files\/2024\/12\/12\/Danielle_800x600.jpg","image_full_path":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/\/sites\/default\/files\/2024\/12\/12\/Danielle_800x600.jpg","mime":"image\/jpeg","size":331102,"path_740":"http:\/\/hg.gatech.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/740xx_scale\/public\/2024\/12\/12\/Danielle_800x600.jpg?itok=RR1f4MQA"}}},"media_ids":["675847"],"related_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=mFYVeXFrTPE","title":"Danielle Willkens: Putting People at the Forefront of Design \u2013 Georgia Tech College of Design YouTube"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.madamearchitect.org\/interviews\/2021\/3\/22\/danielle-willkens","title":"Teaching Them Young: Danielle Willkens on Architecture For Teens, Sliding Doors, and Having Eyes Open \u2013 Madame Architect"}],"groups":[{"id":"244191","name":"Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems"}],"categories":[],"keywords":[{"id":"188360","name":"go-bbiss"},{"id":"179230","name":"digital twin"},{"id":"5739","name":"historic preservation"},{"id":"180965","name":"LiDAR technologies"}],"core_research_areas":[{"id":"194566","name":"Sustainable Systems"}],"news_room_topics":[],"event_categories":[],"invited_audience":[],"affiliations":[],"classification":[],"areas_of_expertise":[],"news_and_recent_appearances":[],"phone":[],"contact":[{"value":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu\u0022\u003EBrent Verrill\u003C\/a\u003E, Research Communications Program Manager, BBISS\u003C\/p\u003E","format":"limited_html"}],"email":["brent.verrill@research.gatech.edu"],"slides":[],"orientation":[],"userdata":""}}}