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The University of Georgia has appointed former U.S. Army intelligence officer Ben Thomas as the leader of the UGA Research Institute (UGARI), effective Oct. 1. Thomas has recently completed his tenure as a colonel and chief of intelligence at the Directorate for Science and Technology within the Defense Intelligence Agency in Virginia.
Thomas concluded his military journey with over 25 years in varying roles, from an aviation officer engaged in combat, to head of the Nuclear Disablement Team addressing threats posed by weapons of mass destruction both domestically and internationally, culminating in his last appointment as chief of intelligence. Throughout these 25 years, Thomas also earned a bachelor’s degree in physics from North Georgia College and State University (now the University of North Georgia), a master’s in nuclear engineering from the Air Force Institute of Technology, and a Ph.D. in mechanical and aerospace engineering from the University of Virginia.
“I am delighted that someone with Dr. Thomas’ expertise and standing will be at the helm of the UGA Research Institute, steering our research community in collaboration with U.S. mission agencies to tackle research requirements that are essential for the nation,” stated interim Vice President of Research Chris King. “Ben possesses a broad understanding of the key federal agencies and their preferred ways of partnering with research universities, along with excellent connections to these organizations. We anticipate supporting him as he uses that insight to benefit our researchers — and ultimately, the country at large.”
“The UGA Research Institute is a vital aspect of our initiatives to enhance the positive momentum of the university’s research efforts and our endeavors to increase interactions with federal agencies,” remarked Benjamin C. Ayers, senior vice president for academic affairs and provost. “I am eager to welcome Ben to the University of Georgia in this significant leadership position.”
Thomas takes on the role of UGARI’s first permanent director, succeeding inaugural UGARI director Gene Rhodes, who has held the position since the institute’s establishment in 2022 (alongside retired faculty member Larry Hornak, who served as co-director with Rhodes until fall 2024). Rhodes serves as the director of UGA’s Savannah River Ecology Laboratory.
“Gene Rhodes has dedicated himself tirelessly over the past three years to solidify UGARI on a strong foundation and to foster relationships between our researchers and key contacts at federal agencies,” shared King. “I’m profoundly thankful to him and to Larry Hornak for their leadership of this crucial unit for the ongoing development and advancement of UGA’s research enterprise.”
As the chief of intelligence, Thomas spearheaded the creation, coordination, and execution of the annual Science & Technology Operations Guidance, collaborating closely with the directorates for Operation and Analysis, the Integrated Intelligence Centers, and the Geographic Combatant Commands to incorporate technical collection planning into campaigns for the Defense Intelligence Agency, Defense Intelligence Enterprise, and Department of Defense.
“I’ve been working from the other side, from the requirement owner perspective,” Thomas mentioned. “Now, I’m enthusiastic about the chance to work from the capability provider perspective.”
Since 2022, UGARI has taken the initiative in optimizing research administration and promoting secure research methodologies, both crucial for securing alliances with mission agencies like the Department of Defense, Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Homeland Security, and NASA.
Throughout his Army career, Thomas had chances to collaborate on initiatives at the DOE’s Savannah River Site, including some linked with the Savannah River Ecology Laboratory’s engagements.
“It’s thrilling for me because I recognized some of the researchers,” he expressed. “And I have an insight into how it’s managed from the DOE perspective, not just the Department of Defense angle. Each unique community communicates in a different language, making this a wonderful chance to bridge that gap and manage expectations on both sides, ensuring that the speed and focus of research align with that of the sponsor.”
Thomas pointed out that he is well-acquainted with the impact UGARI has made for many researchers by connecting stakeholders to ensure projects satisfy the needs of their agency sponsor. In the immediate future, he aims to double those partnerships and continue fostering a rhythm of collaboration, including community events to demonstrate capabilities or technologies.
“We want to present research initiatives to the customers or requirement owners so they can recognize the potential advantages of collaboration,” he stated. “Often, they have needs and are unsure where to turn, or they have a longstanding relationship with one partner and attempt to get that partner to undertake tasks that aren’t truly in their focus area.”
“These are messaging opportunities to align the right individuals with the right projects and ultimately to extend UGA’s research portfolio and broaden its influence.”
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