Elevate Your Research Leadership – Apply to the Research Leadership Academy


About

Launching 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 kicks off with a two-day retreat on October 6-7 led by the Atkinson Training Group, a pioneer in leadership training for scientists and engineers. Participants will engage in dynamic interactive sessions, mentorship, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. The RLA will feature a series of Institute and outside speakers along with opportunities to work together to build relevant skills and knowledge. Meetings will be monthly after the kickoff retreat. We anticipate the selection of approximately 10-15 colleagues for this 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).

Please Note:

If selected for the 2025-2026 Research Leadership Academy cohort, you will be required to attend the mandatory kickoff event on August 8 from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. and the off-site retreat led by the Atkinson Group on October 6-7, as well as seven Monday sessions (times to be confirmed) held on campus.

Below are potential session dates. Please do not apply if you are unable to attend the mandatory offsite retreat or hold the following dates:

  • Monday, September 8, 2025
  • Monday, October 6, 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

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

Application deadline was May 30, 2025. Applications are now closed.