Research Leadership Academy Inaugural Cohort

About

Launched in August 2025, the Research Leadership Academy (RLA) is an initiative of the Office of the Executive Vice President for Research (EVPR), designed to help Georgia Tech academic and research faculty with the skills, networks, and insights needed to lead large-scale, high-impact research initiatives. This program aims to empower participants to become thought leaders, creators, and stewards of collaborative research activities that drive innovation at Georgia Tech and the larger national and international research community.

RLA began with an on-site kick off on August 8, 2025, where participants engaged in dynamic interactive sessions, mentorship, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. 

RLA features a series of Institute and outside speakers along with opportunities to work together to build relevant skills and knowledge. Following the kickoff retreat, monthly meetings will be held with the colleagues selected for the inaugural cohort.

Eligibility

Ideal candidates will meet the following criteria:

• Research Leadership Experience: At least five years leading a midsize-to-large research group, lab, or center, that includes numerous graduate students, postdocs, research staff, and/or other academic/research faculty.
• Georgia Tech Faculty Appointment: At least two full academic years as a Georgia Tech academic or research faculty member.
• Senior-Level Expertise:
  • Academic Faculty: Tenured
  • Research Faculty: Holds the title of senior or principal research engineer, scientist, associate, technologist, or extension professional.
• Able to commit to full participation in all RLA sessions (dates listed below).

Sessions

In addition to the initial kickoff meeting, members of the inaugural cohort are expected to participate in an off-site retreat led by the Atkinson Group from October 5–7, as well as attend seven Monday sessions held on campus.

Campus session dates (times to be confirmed):

• Monday, September 8, 2025
• Monday, November 3, 2025
• Monday, December 1, 2025
• Monday, January 26, 2026
• Monday, February 23, 2026
• Monday, March 30, 2026
• Monday, April 6, 2026

Full engagement is essential to the success of the program and the cohort experience. We appreciate your commitment!

Application deadline for the first cohort was May 30, 2025. Applications are now closed.