News Summary

Georgia State University has appointed Donald Hamelberg, Ph.D., as its new vice president for Research and Economic Development. Hamelberg will lead a significant research community that has invested over $1.88 billion in the last decade, focusing on impactful research across diverse fields. The university, designated as R1 for high research activity, leads in several academic areas and is committed to integrating research into student experiences, boosting the local economy, and fostering innovation.

Atlanta – Georgia State University has appointed Donald Hamelberg, Ph.D., as its new vice president for Research and Economic Development. In his role, Hamelberg will oversee a vibrant community of hundreds of researchers and manage a program that has invested over $1.88 billion in research within the last decade.

Hamelberg describes the research conducted at Georgia State as “impactful,” encompassing a diverse array of fields ranging from the humanities to drug discovery. The university holds an R1 designation, which signifies “very high research activity,” a notable achievement considering it does not have a medical or engineering school. According to the National Science Foundation, Georgia State recorded over $237 million in research spending in just one year.

The university leads the state in research expenditures in several areas, including political science, sociology, demography, and population studies. In addition to these fields, Georgia State is also recognized as a leader in computer and information sciences, psychology, and social sciences. The university’s downtown Atlanta location places it in proximity to major businesses and organizations, providing students and researchers with valuable access to industry and government leaders.

Students and Research Environment

With a diverse student population of around 52,000, Georgia State benefits from a multitude of perspectives that enrich its research and educational landscape. The university is celebrated nationally for its Student Success programs, which are designed to support students from varied backgrounds. Hamelberg emphasizes the significance of cutting-edge research in enhancing classroom learning, where students can benefit from faculty who are actively involved in their respective fields.

Strategic Vision and Economic Impact

Research and innovation play a crucial role in Georgia State’s strategic vision and in engaging students. The university contributes approximately $3.2 billion annually to the economic ecosystem of the metro Atlanta area. This investment in knowledge and inventions is viewed as a proactive approach to fostering future innovation and job creation, reinforcing the importance of a strong research community to attract businesses and cultivate a skilled workforce.

As the research funding landscape evolves, Hamelberg notes that Georgia State is committed to adapting strategically. The university is focused on exploring new funding opportunities and building partnerships, particularly within industry sectors. There is also a notable emphasis on health research and matching academic capabilities with emerging business opportunities.

Future Perspectives

Looking ahead, Hamelberg envisions Georgia State further integrating research into the entire student experience while maintaining its commitment to impactful work that transforms communities. He advocates for nurturing a sense of community progress through collaboration and the sharing of knowledge as essential drivers for advancing the university’s mission.

In summary, Georgia State University’s strategic focus on research and economic development is poised to enhance its standing as a premier institution of higher learning, while contributing significantly to the local economy and the advancement of knowledge across numerous disciplines.

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Georgia State University Appoints New Vice President for Research