Research & Impact

A Focus on Impact

Welcome to the Office of Research at Georgia Southern University, where creativity meets impact. As a catalyst for discovery and growth, our office serves as the driving force behind transformative research initiatives and economic partnerships that propel our institution and community forward.

At Georgia Southern, research isn’t just a pursuit — it’s a passion. Our vibrant academic community is home to a diverse array of scholars, researchers and innovators dedicated to pushing the boundaries of knowledge and making a tangible difference in the world. From groundbreaking scientific discoveries to pioneering advancements in the humanities, art, history, music and social sciences, our faculty and students are at the forefront of ingenuity across disciplines.

But our impact extends far beyond the walls of academia. Through strategic collaborations with industry partners, government agencies and community organizations, we leverage our research expertise to address real-world challenges, drive economic development and understand the creative and artistic pursuits that inspire humanity. Whether it’s through technology transfer, workforce development initiatives or entrepreneurial support programs, we are committed to fostering creative ecosystems that create jobs, fuel economic growth and enhance the quality of life for all.

At the Office of Research, we are proud to be the engine of creativity and progress for Georgia Southern. Join us as we continue to push the boundaries of knowledge, unlock new opportunities and shape a brighter future for our region and beyond.

Research at a Glance

R

Carnegie Classification

Georgia Southern has been recognized as a high research activity institution.

Research Centers

Making a targeted impact on our region’s economy, environment and health outcomes.

GS

Georgia Southern Student Scholars Symposium

Where scores of undergraduate and graduate students from across our 10 colleges contribute their insights and discoverie

Impact Areas

We pursue research with a purpose, expanding knowledge and developing practical applications that bring tangible benefits to our region and beyond. Explore key areas where our faculty researchers and students are making an impact.

For Advanced Materials and Manufacturing research, Georgia Southern faculty operate welding equipment.

Advanced Materials and Manufacturing

Novel materials and processes ensure sustainability and continued economic growth as global consumption expands. Faculty and students are solving challenges in areas ranging from nanomaterials to robotic automation, helping develop technologies that will shape industries.

For Coastal Resilience research, a Georgia Southern student wearing gloves collects samples from grass near the coastline.

Coastal Sustainability & Resilience

Coastal environments are fragile, complex and often densely populated. Georgia Southern researchers create practical ways to protect these ecosystems while supporting economic development through sustainable practices based on the best available science.

For Vibrant Communities research, a group of Georgia Southern students moves piles of wood boards.

Vibrant Communities

To strengthen and connect our region, we’re exploring the elements of civic infrastructure to enhance communities’ economic, educational, public health, religious and cultural resources.

For Holistic Fitness & Wellness research, two Georgia Southern students assess the strength of an athlete holding a barbell.

Holistic Fitness and Wellness

From injury prevention training programs for soldiers and first responders to sophisticated health-related analytics, researchers develop tools to improve human well-being and optimize performance, all taking the person and context into account.

A shipping port, which will benefit from Georgia Southern's Logistics and Supply Chain Innovations research

Logistics & Supply Chain Innovations

Coastal Georgia is a regional transportation and distribution hub, with Savannah hosting the fourth-largest container port in the U.S. Researchers use the latest tools, including AI and machine learning, to drive innovation in logistics, fueling growth in local and global economies.

Two Georgia Southern faculty members discuss sustainable fuel alternatives in a research laboratory

Sustainable Fuels Research Network

Scientists and engineers from across the University collaborate with Georgia Southern’s corporate partners to overcome design challenges and implement technologies that facilitate the economy’s transition to sustainable fuels.

Our Research Centers

Through our research centers, we catalyze entrepreneurs to transform the regional economy, foster sustainable water resource management, and integrate technology and data to improve health infrastructure around the world.

Research Support and Output for 2023-24

$M

In research funding for FY24.

Total publications or other scholarly output for 2023.

%

International collaboration for 2023.

Empowering Progress

In sharing our knowledge, we translate discovery into impact and look for ways to invest our resources to empower growth in others.

As part of a community outreach initiative, three Georgia Southern students perform volunteer work for an animal shelter.

Community Outreach

Whether through formal, ongoing programs like conservation research and education or volunteer work with local service organizations, our students, faculty and staff look outward. Learn about some of the ways we’re making a difference in the local community.

A Georgia Southern student talks about his research project to two other individuals in a lobby area inside GS Innovate

GS Innovate

Discover a range of programs that support innovation and business development, from guiding University research discoveries into marketable solutions to helping business leaders mitigate risk through sophisticated market research.

A professor explains the benefits of economic development with a pie chart to a classroom of Georgia Southern students

Economic Development

By providing expertise, training talent and entering into collaborations that leverage our facilities, faculty and students, we support local businesses and industry partners to spur economic growth and create more opportunities in our communities.

Vertically Integrated Projects (VIP)

Our Vertically Integrated Program (VIP) equips students to collaborate with faculty on transformative, multidisciplinary research projects that drive personal growth, innovation, and real-world impact.

Resources

From students to faculty to community partners, understand how you can get involved, and find resources to support your contribution and collaboration. 

Student Research and Creative Activity

As a student, you’re an essential part of Georgia Southern’s environment of innovation. Whether you’re at the undergraduate or graduate level, see how you can make your mark.

Scholars at Georgia Southern

Explore the research and creative activity of Georgia Southern faculty through this extensive database. Browse or search for scholars, publications, presentations, grants, research units and more to see how our faculty are making an impact.

Faculty Support

In supporting your research, we help you pursue and secure funding and relieve the administrative burdens associated with project management. Your next big discovery is waiting: Let us help you get there.

For Industry Partners

As an outwardly focused research institution invested in our region’s development, we actively cultivate partnerships to share our expertise and enhance student learning and opportunities. Find out more about working with us.

Group of Georgia Southern University students walking on campus, showcasing a vibrant college atmosphere and student life.

Take the Next Step

Ready to be part of a community uncovering knowledge and developing solutions that will shape tomorrow? Find an outlet for your ideas and energy at Georgia Southern.