Research Insights

One of the more unfortunate impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, in terms of UGA campus operations, is the restrictions it has placed on our ability to gather as a community and celebrate each other. Just one example: For the last two springs, UGA Honors Week has featured no live award ceremonies, no podium walks, no handshakes as awards are bestowed, no ringing applause from colleagues and friends. I know we’ve all missed those simple symbols of community.

Next spring, I hope, will be different. And in keeping with those hopes, I encourage you to think about who will make those podium walks and hear that applause. Which of your colleagues deserve special recognition? Which junior faculty are making impacts in their field far beyond their years? Which senior faculty should be feted for decades of sustained contributions to the advancement of knowledge? Which faculty members, postdocs, and graduate students are tirelessly and enthusiastically committed to mentoring? Which students are already building research reputations even before they graduate?

The Office of Research website features a list of our internal Research Awards and the criteria for each. This year we’ve added a new Team Impact Award to recognize an entire research team for excellence in innovation and impactful scholarship that could not be accomplished by single individuals.

Formal nominations for all these awards are made by deans and center/institute directors, but please don’t wait for an invitation to nominate, our leaders need everyone’s help in identifying outstanding candidates. I encourage all of you, UGA researchers, to check with your school, college or research unit about the nomination deadlines and procedures.

Not only is honoring the great work of colleagues and students the right thing to do through our internal Awards mechanism, but it also lays the groundwork for nominations for prestigious external awards. So submit those nominations! You never know where one could lead.

Also: On the topic of research community, please mark your calendars for Friday, Oct. 15, from 3-5 p.m., when we will hold our annual research orientation to help faculty learn about the programs and services offered from the Office of Research. This year’s event will be virtual, and it’s open to all faculty and postdoctoral researchers. To register, first log into UGA’s Professional Education Portal and then either search for “Keys to UGA: Launching Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activities at UGA” or click this registration link. Hope to see you there!

Best wishes and many thanks,

Karen Burg
Vice President for Research
Harbor Lights Chair in Biomedical Research